Surat - Loktej English

Surat: Major rescue operation by NDRF in Dindoli, 255 people stranded in flood safely rescued

Loktej English Team — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:56:03 +0530

Surat. Continuous heavy rainfall over the past three days in South Gujarat has led to flood-like conditions in several areas of Surat.

A large number of people were stranded in floodwaters in the Shivshakti Society of the Dindoli area. Considering the seriousness of the situation, the 6th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) conducted a special rescue operation late at night under the direction of the Surat district administration and the State Emergency Operation Centre in Gandhinagar. The NDRF team, in collaboration with the local administration, carried out a comprehensive rescue operation in the flooded area.

Despite difficult conditions, the personnel reached those stranded in the flood and brought them to safety. A total of 255 people were safely rescued during the operation, including 153 men, 67 women, and 35 children. After ensuring their safety, necessary assistance was provided to all.

The district administration reported that relief and rescue operations are ongoing in the affected areas, and continuous monitoring of the flooded areas is being maintained. Citizens have been urged to follow the administration's instructions and avoid unnecessary travel to flooded areas.

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Heavy Impact on Business in Surat Due to 14 Inches of Rain, Water Enters Thousands of Shops; Goods Worth Crores Damaged

Loktej English Team — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:52:38 +0530

Surat. The record rainfall of over 14 inches in a single day has dealt a severe blow to the business ecosystem in Surat.

Water has flooded thousands of shops located in basements and ground floors across various areas of the city, leading to the spoilage of goods worth crores of rupees. After the water level recedes, traders are now engaged in removing water from their shops with the help of pumps and assessing the damage. The most affected areas include Varachha, Bhatar, Adajan, Palanpur, Udhna, Limbayat, Katargam, and the railway station area.

In many commercial complexes and apartments, water has accumulated from knee-deep to waist-deep, causing significant financial losses to businesses dealing in textiles, electronics, groceries, furniture, mobile phones, cosmetics, and others. Refrigerators, computers, machinery, and other electronic devices have also been submerged in the rainwater, further increasing the extent of the damage. After the rainfall subsided on Wednesday, traders began the process of removing water with the help of motor pumps, generators, and other equipment.

The cleaning process has also become challenging due to the accumulation of mud and filth in several locations. The railway station area has been one of the most affected, with water levels reaching approximately 6 to 7 feet. According to local residents, heavy iron girders were swept away by the strong current and ended up in front of shops, creating a chaotic situation in the area.

The flooding has not been limited to shops alone; cars, two-wheelers, and other vehicles parked in the basements of several commercial complexes remained submerged for hours. Even after the water receded, many vehicles could not be started. Vehicle owners are concerned about potential damage to engines, electronic systems, and other parts.

Traders have expressed that they feel completely helpless in the face of this natural disaster. Many traders have lost goods worth lakhs of rupees.

Preliminary estimates suggest that businesses across the city have suffered losses amounting to crores of rupees. Now, their biggest challenge is to get their businesses back on track and recover from the financial losses incurred.

Surat: SGCCI-CAIT Seminar, Adopting AI and Machine Learning Essential for the Future of Business—Praveen Khandelwal

Loktej English Team — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:24:33 +0530

Surat. A special seminar on 'Strengthening Trade and Industry: Government Schemes, Business Development, and New Opportunities' was organized on Saturday at Ushakant Marfatia Hall in Sarsana under the joint auspices of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and the Gujarat chapter of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).

Lok Sabha MP and CAIT National General Secretary Praveen Khandelwal was the chief speaker at the event. He informed traders about the changing business environment, modern technologies, and various schemes of the central government. At the beginning of the program, SGCCI President Ashok Jirawala welcomed the attendees and stated that trade and industry play a significant role in India's economic development.

The central and state governments have implemented several new schemes, reforms, and policies to promote trade. In this competitive era, it is essential for traders to be aware of new business opportunities, modern working methods, and business expansion strategies. Chief speaker Praveen Khandelwal mentioned that global trade is rapidly moving towards machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI)-based systems, but nearly 90 percent of traders in India are still not fully familiar with these technologies.

He emphasized that it has become imperative for every trader to keep themselves technically updated over time. Knowledge of modern digital tools and new technologies is necessary to keep businesses competitive. He provided detailed information about the central government's Mudra scheme, Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, Lakhpati Didi Yojana, and Digi Sakhi Yojana.

He also urged entrepreneurs in the textile industry to take maximum advantage of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. He further informed that the government is working towards implementing a 'One Trade, One License' system in the future, which will simplify business processes even more. Praveen Khandelwal announced that an Indian Trade Festival will be held from August 12 to 15, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi in collaboration with CAIT and ITPO.

The textile industry from Surat has booked stalls in an area of approximately 7,000 square meters for this event. Entrepreneurs and business representatives from over 40 countries will participate in the festival, providing new opportunities for Indian industries and traders to connect with the global market.

The event was attended by former chamber president Nikhil Madarasi, honorary treasurer Atul Patel, former chairman of the textile task force Ashish Gujarati, CAIT Gujarat president Pramod Bhagat, and a large number of industrialists and traders. The outline of the program was presented by Manoj Agarwal, conducted by Mitesh Shah, and at the end, honorary minister Paresh Lathia expressed gratitude.

Surat: Two-day leadership and political training camp of Akhil Bharatiya Agarwal Sangh in Lucknow

Loktej English Team — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:28:11 +0530

A two-day leadership and political training camp will be organized by Akhil Bharatiya Agarwal Sangh on August 22 and 23, 2026, at Maharaja Agrasen Public School in Gomtinagar, Lucknow, aimed at preparing the youth and talented individuals of the community for political, social, and business leadership. The national chairman of the organization, Pradeep Mittal, national president Kulbhushan Mittal, and national general secretary Rajesh Bharuka jointly stated that the Agarwal community has made significant contributions to the economic and social development of the country, but political representation has not reached the expected level.

This special training camp is being organized to address this shortcoming and to develop leadership skills among the youth. National general secretary Rajesh Bharuka mentioned that experienced experts will provide training on various important topics during the camp. Ramesh Singhal (Jind) will cover team strategy, Anil Singhania (Delhi) will address election management and coordination, Rakesh Suraj (Delhi) will discuss business and entrepreneurship strategy, Nitin Agarwal (Jaipur) will focus on media and digital media management, and Arun Sarf (Charkhi Dadri) will guide participants on effective public speaking.

National coordinator of the skill development committee Ashok Buwaniwala and president of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Sudhir Halwasiya stated that the objective of the camp is to prepare effective leadership in the community, increase political awareness, and empower youth with organizational, public relations, and communication skills. They appealed to as many youth and interested participants as possible to register in time. Gujarat state president Ratanlal Daruka specifically urged interested members from Gujarat to register soon, stating that interested participants can contact the office bearers of Akhil Bharatiya Agarwal Sangh in their respective areas to register for the camp.

Surat: Inauguration of the 6th Gujarat State Grappling Wrestling Championship in Navsari

Loktej English Team — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:27:42 +0530

The grand inauguration of the 6th Gujarat State Grappling Wrestling Championship took place on Saturday at the sports complex of Sar C.J.N.Z. High School in Navsari, inaugurated by Ashok Jirawala, the newly elected president of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI). This state-level competition, organized by the Gujarat Grappling Wrestling Committee, saw a large number of players participating from across the state.

During the event, Subhash Dawar, chairman of the Gujarat Grappling Wrestling Committee, welcomed the chief guest Ashok Jirawala and highlighted the importance of the sport of grappling. He mentioned that players from Gujarat are performing excellently in grappling wrestling, competing strongly against traditionally strong states and bringing recognition to Gujarat at the national level. He expressed confidence that the state is now making a new identity not only in industry and trade but also in sports.

In his address, Ashok Jirawala encouraged the players, stating that the youth of Gujarat have brought pride to the country in various fields, and now it is time for the state to wave its flag internationally as well. He congratulated the officials of the Grappling Wrestling Committee for the successful organization and assured that he would seek more support from the government for the development of players and the promotion of this sport.

Approximately 425 players from 19 districts of Gujarat participated in this state-level competition. The success of the event was credited to Mirza Ji, Mayur Patel, general secretary Amit Kalsaria, and principal of Sar C.J.N.Z. High School Marzban Patrawala, along with the organizing committee, whose efforts made the successful organization of the competition possible.

Surat: Several proposals for community welfare approved in All India Agarwal Organization meeting

Loktej English Team — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:25:41 +0530

The All India Agarwal Organization's Surat unit meeting made several important decisions related to community welfare and public benefit. The organization's president, Sachin Singla, stated that the organization will bear the educational expenses of economically weaker but meritorious students.

The meeting also decided to provide courses related to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computers at discounted rates for members' children, organize a family picnic soon, and provide financial assistance for the marriages of economically weaker needy girls. After detailed discussions on all proposals, the attending members unanimously supported them.

The meeting was attended by Vice President Shankar Goyal, Secretary Deepak Banka, Treasurer Ajay Bidawatka, along with Bhanu Garg, Yogesh Agarwal, Naresh Saraf, and Girdhari Agarwal. Members also presented their suggestions for the organization's upcoming social welfare plans and pledged to remain actively engaged in community welfare.

Surat: Honoring Disabled Talents on Saksham Foundation Day, 223 Participants Present

Loktej English Team — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:25:20 +0530

A grand event to honor disabled talents was organized by Saksham Surat Metropolitan on the occasion of Saksham Foundation Day at the Narendra Panchasara complex located in Parvat Patiya (in front of Bhaktidham Mandir). The program commenced with the lighting of lamps by the chief guests.

Prominent guests included industrialist and social worker Jayantkumar Thakorbhai Patel, District Social Security Officer Laljibhai Patel, Vice President of Saksham Gujarat Dr. Prafulbhai Shiroya, international para badminton player Vaishaliben Niroshbhai Patel, CMO of SVNIT and Vice President of Saksham Gujarat Dr. Sanjaybhai Shah, Keshavnagar Sanghchalak of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Mohansinghji Rathod, President of Saksham Surat Metropolitan Mukeshji Rathi, and Secretary Mukeshji Rawal. During the event, Laljibhai Patel provided important information regarding government schemes and disability certificates to the disabled individuals. Dr. Prafulbhai Shiroya, in his inspiring address, conveyed a message of moving forward in life with self-confidence, self-reliance, and positive thinking.

He appreciated the successful organization of the event and extended best wishes to the organizers on behalf of Saksham Gujarat State President Prafulbhai Patel (Adanwala). International para badminton player Vaishaliben Niroshbhai Patel encouraged the disabled individuals by sharing her life struggles and success experiences. Dr. Sanjaybhai Shah provided useful health-related information, while Mukesh Rawal highlighted the service activities and objectives of the Saksham organization.

On this occasion, disabled talents who achieved remarkable accomplishments in various fields were honored. Disabled brothers and sisters shared their inspiring experiences, and musical performances by disabled artists moved the attendees.

A total of 223 participants were present, including 75 disabled brothers, 30 disabled sisters, 15 children, 60 family members, 8 special guests, 25 metropolitan executive members, and 10 volunteers. At the conclusion of the program, arrangements for tea, snacks, and meals were made for all.

Surat: Inauguration of the new service office of Mahavir International Charitable Trust

Loktej English Team — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:25:01 +0530

The inauguration of the new service office of Mahavir International Charitable Trust, main branch–Surat, took place on Sunday in a joyful and dignified atmosphere at the Times Square complex in Vesu. With the opening of the new office, the organization reiterated its commitment to making its service activities more extensive and effective.

On this occasion, the officials of the organization mentioned that Mahavir International has been active in various humanitarian services through its nearly 350 branches and over 12,000 members in India and abroad for the past 51 years. The Surat main branch has been successfully operating various public service projects for the needy and underprivileged for the past 28 years. The organization's president Veer CA Dinesh Jain, secretary Veer Naresh Lalwani, and treasurer Veer CA Rajesh Malu stated that the trust regularly conducts medical and health check-up camps, eye examinations and treatments, food distribution for the needy, provision of daily use materials in tribal areas, educational assistance, skill development, and many other welfare activities.

They mentioned that with the establishment of a permanent service office, all these service projects can now be operated in a more organized, extensive, and effective manner, reaching more and more needy people. The inauguration ceremony was successfully attended by over 150 Veers, Veeras, and children from the organization. Senior officials and esteemed members present at the event included the organization's trustee and advisor Veer Ganpatji Bhansali, Veer CA Nirmal Kothari, international vice president (Region-8) Veer Surendraji Marothi, international director (IT) Veer Sandeep Dangi, and Gujarat zone chairperson Veera Nisha Sethia, among others.

Distinguished guests included Rajnishbhai Desai, corporator and vice-chairman of the drainage department committee (Ward-20), Rashmi Sabu, corporator and chairperson of the water department committee (Ward-22), Mrs. Sheetalben Patel, corporator and vice-chairman of the PWD department committee (Ward-22), and ward chief Pratikbhai Patel (Ward-22). The program concluded with a resolution for service, cooperation, and human welfare.

Surat: Commitment to service on Nikita Sharma's birthday, 75 units of blood collected at Vipra Foundation's blood donation camp

Loktej English Team — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:24:42 +0530

A blood donation camp was organized at Vipra Gaurav Bhavan in Saroli on the occasion of Nikita Sharma's birthday, daughter of Rajesh Sharma, with the support of Ghanshyam Sevak, president of Vipra Foundation Surat. In this camp dedicated to service and humanity, blood donors from the community enthusiastically participated, donating 75 units of blood.

During the camp, officials from Vipra Foundation, including president Tola Ram Saraswat, general secretary Sajjan Maharshi, organization secretary Meetha Lal, Damodar Goud, former president of Rajasthan Yuva Sangh Lal Singh Rajpurohit, president of Laghu Udyog Bharati Surat and vice-president of Rajasthan Yuva Sangh Ram Avtar Parik, Pankaj Sharma, Mahendra Chaudhary, president of Khandelwal Samaj Pukhraj Khandelwal, SMC councilor and vice-chairman Ashok Pokharna, social worker Matadeen Kabra, Gangadhar Jat, and many other officials, workers, and community members were present. Rajesh Sharma, medical in-charge of Vipra Foundation and organization secretary of Rajasthan Yuva Sangh, mentioned that the blood donation camp was organized to convey a message of community service and humanity on the occasion of his daughter Nikita Sharma's birthday.

He stated that the 75 units of blood collected during the camp would prove to be life-saving for needy patients. He expressed gratitude to all blood donors, the team from Jeevan Jyot Blood Center, and the supporting workers who made the event successful, urging more people to regularly participate in voluntary blood donation.

Surat: 94 people benefited from the subsidized health check-up camp at Agarwal Health Center

Loktej English Team — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:24:17 +0530

The subsidized health check-up camp organized by Agarwal Health Center saw enthusiastic participation from people on Sunday. A larger than expected number of beneficiaries availed health services.

A total of 94 individuals underwent various health checks at the camp, while registration for sample collection from 11 senior citizens was also conducted at their homes. Vinod Chidavawala, in charge of the health center, mentioned that the trust is arranging home visits for sample collection to provide better health services to senior citizens. During the camp, Raju Bhai Agarwal, president of Agarwal Samaj Parvat Patiya, along with his family, underwent health checks.

He appreciated the trust's initiative for public service, stating that providing quality health services at subsidized rates is extremely beneficial and commendable for the community. Arvind Gadia, Vimal Jhajharia, and Prakash Beriwal provided special assistance in the successful operation of the camp.

Vinod Chidavawala also announced that the trust will soon start a modern primary healthcare center in the Althan area. Additionally, plans are being made to organize a large health camp in the same premises on the occasion of the upcoming Agrasen Jayanti, to benefit as many people as possible.

Transfer of Surat Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot to Ahmedabad

Loktej English Team — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:14:31 +0530

The Gujarat government has transferred senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and Surat city Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot (Batch-1997) to the position of Police Commissioner of Ahmedabad city. The Home Department has issued an official order regarding this.

According to the order, Anupam Singh Gehlot has been appointed to the vacant cadre position of Ahmedabad city. For this, the ex-cadre position of Ahmedabad Police Commissioner has been reorganized, downgrading it from the Director General of Police (DGP) grade to the cadre position of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) grade. The notification issued by the Home Department states that this order has been issued in the name of the Governor of Gujarat.

The order is signed by Sanjeev Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Home Department of the state government. Anupam Singh Gehlot played a significant role in maintaining law and order, crime control, and successfully managing various major events during his tenure as Surat Police Commissioner.

He will now take on his new responsibilities as Police Commissioner of Ahmedabad city. It is likely that a separate order regarding the appointment of a new Police Commissioner for Surat will be issued by the government.

Surat: Lions Club of Surat Crystal Honors Medical and Financial Experts on Doctors' Day and CA Day

Loktej English Team — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:09:57 +0530

Lions Club of Surat Crystal honored doctors and chartered accountants on the occasion of Doctors' Day and Chartered Accountants' Day, recognizing their outstanding contributions to society on the first day of the new lionistic year 2026-27. Gratitude was expressed towards the honored guests, and their dedication and spirit of service were praised.

The event was attended by IPDG Lion Mona Desai, RC Lion Bhagirath Paliwal, ZC Lion Sunita Lodha, the club's charter president Lion Ranjoo Dugar, newly elected club president Lion Shikha Bafna, and all club members. Everyone conveyed the message of starting the new lionistic year with a commitment to service, respect, and social concerns.