Surat - Loktej English

Surat: Lion Vision Charitable Trust's Service Campaign

Loktej English Team — Wed, 27 May 2026 12:32:37 +0530

A special program dedicated to education and social welfare was organized by the Lion Vision Charitable Trust, which is active in the field of social service in Surat. Under the leadership of the organization's president Chirag Virani, educational materials worth approximately 2.5 million rupees were distributed free of charge.

The program was overseen by Home Guard Commander and Chairman of the Red Cross Blood Donation Center, Dr. Praful Shiroya. Many prominent members of the community, including the organization's vice president Dineshbhai Jogani, were present. During the event, children were provided with uniforms, stationery, shoes, socks, and other essential educational materials.

This initiative directly benefited thousands of families. The organization also announced the completion of its 'Result Target 2026' at this event. The trust is working not only in education but also in the fields of employment and skill training.

It is striving to provide employment by training unemployed individuals. So far, the organization has made approximately 300 women self-reliant, enabling them to earn up to 50,000 rupees per month. The organization has also expressed its commitment to make 51,000 women self-reliant in the future.

Additionally, the Lion Vision Charitable Trust has been providing free surgical equipment services since 2019. Various medical camps are regularly organized under health services.

A BSW course is offered free of charge to youth, and accommodation is also provided free of cost by the organization. The organization is continuously working to reach out to as many needy people in society as possible and fulfill its social goals.

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Surat: Marwadi Yuva Manch's Public Service Amidst Severe Heat

Loktej English Team — Wed, 27 May 2026 12:31:40 +0530

In response to the rising heat and temperatures in Surat, Marwadi Yuva Manch Surat has initiated 7 temporary water stations in various areas of the city for public service. Through these stations, hundreds of passersby, laborers, and the general public are being provided with cool and clean drinking water daily.

The organization's president, Abhishek Khetan, stated that the organization is actively engaged in service activities to provide relief to people during this severe heat. He mentioned that such community welfare activities will continue in the future. He also appealed to citizens to adopt water conservation practices and support service activities.

Many members, including Prakash Sultania, Prakash Bindal, Secretary Sushant Bajaj, Amrit Dhara Coordinator Rajesh Dalmia, Pankaj Jalan, Amit Kedia, Ayush Poddar, Deepak Dalmia, and Amit Maskara, were present on this occasion. Notable donors, including Vineetbhai, Rajeshbhai, and Ayushbhai, also attended the program. This service campaign by the organization is being appreciated by the public and is becoming a means of relief for the general public during the hot season.

Grand Event of the 14th Annual General Meeting and Musical Evening of Surat Hardware and Building Material Merchants Association

Loktej English Team — Tue, 26 May 2026 12:34:02 +0530

The Surat Hardware and Building Material Merchants Association (SHABMMA) organized a grand family event for its 14th Annual General Meeting and musical evening on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the SMC Party Plot in Althan. The event, which ran from 6 PM to late at night, saw a large turnout of association members and their families.

Senior advocate and director of the 'Donate Life' organization, Hemantbhai Desai, was present as the chief guest. The event was sponsored by Astral Limited (Adhesive Division). The association's president, Kiritbhai Patel, welcomed all guests and members in his opening speech.

On this occasion, the chief guest and sponsors were honored with mementos and bouquets. Secretary Dilipbhai Patel presented a detailed report on various programs and service activities organized by the association throughout the year. New committees were also announced.

Treasurer Mr. Elpeshbhai Kothadia presented the income-expenditure details of the previous year to the assembly. Advisory Committee member Pramodbhai Bhagat highlighted the development journey of the organization from its inception to the present. During the event, the sponsoring company also gave a presentation and showcased an introductory video on an LED screen.

Chief guest Hemantbhai Desai provided important guidance on GST while sharing information about the service activities of the 'Donate Life' organization. He praised SHABMMA's strong organizational structure and wished all members to move forward unitedly. The association's chairman, Rameshbhai Bhutani, provided detailed information on the organization's current progress, future direction, and the work being done by the committee.

Officials from various associations in Surat were present as special guests and were honored with books as mementos. Approximately 1800 members and their families attended this grand general meeting. In the end, Vice President Rajeshbhai Nomani expressed gratitude to all guests and members.

Surat: Varachha Co-op. Bank Receives Prestigious Status of 'Scheduled Bank

Loktej English Team — Tue, 26 May 2026 12:33:44 +0530

Varachha Co-op. Bank Limited, located in Surat, has officially received the prestigious status of 'Scheduled Bank', marking another historic achievement in the cooperative banking sector.

Previously operating as a 'Multi State Cooperative Bank', it has now gained recognition as a 'Multi State Scheduled Cooperative Bank', enhancing its credibility and reliability. Established in 1995, Varachha Co-op. Bank Limited has made a distinct identity in the cooperative banking sector not only in Gujarat but also at the national level, thanks to its transparent administration, strong financial discipline, customer-centric services, and state-of-the-art technology-based banking facilities.

Currently, there are 211 urban cooperative banks operating in Gujarat, of which only 7 banks have received the status of 'Scheduled Bank'. Varachha Co-op. Bank has become the first cooperative bank after the year 2000 to achieve the honor of 'Multi State Scheduled Cooperative Bank'.

The bank's strong financial position reflects its progress, with total fixed deposits amounting to ₹4,411.11 crores, total loans of ₹2,571.31 crores, capital of ₹447.23 crores, and total business of ₹6,982.42 crores as of the financial year ending March 31, 2026. Currently, the bank provides secure, reliable, and digital banking services to over 500,000 customers through a robust network of 30 branches. Due to customer trust, fast and transparent services, and technology-based facilities, the bank is continuously reaching new heights of growth.

With the status of 'Scheduled Bank', customers and members will also benefit from modern banking facilities such as ASBA accounts, RERA accounts, and demat accounts. According to the bank management, this achievement is a result of the bank's strong financial position, excellent management, regulatory compliance, and the trust of millions of customers. The visionary leadership role of former office bearers, directors, and the board of management has also been considered significant in this success.

Under the guidance of the current board of directors, the bank is continuously achieving new milestones. The dedication, service spirit, and efficiency of the employees have also contributed significantly to this success. On this occasion, the bank's new chairman, Narendra Bhai Kukadia, expressed gratitude to the bank family, customers, well-wishers, and employees, stating that the status of 'Multi State Scheduled Cooperative Bank' is a symbol of pride as well as a great responsibility for the entire bank family.

Meanwhile, the new vice chairman, CA Haresh Bhai Kapadia, mentioned that Varachha Co-op. Bank, built on a strong foundation of cooperation, trust, and service, will continue to achieve new heights through modern banking services, advanced technology, and customer-centric plans, further strengthening its identity in the cooperative banking sector across the country.

Ahmedabad: Yashwant Vyas awarded 'Mahasamman Award 2026

Loktej English Team — Tue, 26 May 2026 12:32:57 +0530

Ahmedabad. Renowned English language trainer, author, and educator Yashwant Vyas was honored with the 'Mahasamman Award 2026' for his outstanding contribution to English language training and education.

The award was presented by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on May 22, 2026, at a grand ceremony held at Hotel Healock in Ahmedabad. The event was organized by ZEE 24 Kalak. Yashwant Vyas has been empowering students and youth through English language teaching, spoken English training, and academic writing for several years.

His contributions as a trainer and author are highly regarded in the education sector. On this occasion, he expressed his gratitude by gifting his acclaimed book 'My Own English Grammar' to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

After receiving the award, Yashwant Vyas stated that this award is extremely inspiring for him, and he will continue to work in the field of education and language awareness in the future. The ceremony was attended by several educators, social leaders, and dignitaries from various fields in Gujarat.

Surat: President Droupadi Murmu honors Nilesh Mandalewala, the 'Organ Man of India', with Padma Shri

Loktej English Team — Tue, 26 May 2026 12:32:21 +0530

Surat: Nilesh Mandalewala, who has been continuously working in the field of organ donation awareness for the past two decades, has been awarded the 'Padma Shri' honor by the Government of India. Known as the 'Organ Man of India' and the founder of Donate Life, Nilesh Mandalewala was honored by President Droupadi Murmu at the Padma Awards 2026 ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The event was attended by several dignitaries including Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shah.

In recognition of his invaluable contributions to social service and organ donation, the Government of India announced his name for the Padma Shri award on January 26, 2026. After receiving the honor, an emotional Nilesh Mandalewala stated that this recognition is not just for him or the Donate Life organization, but for the entire city of Surat, the state of Gujarat, all organ donors, their families, and everyone associated with the organ donation campaign. He dedicated this award to his late parents and Lord Dwarkadhish.

Nilesh Mandalewala mentioned that the success of the organ donation campaign has been significantly supported by doctors, hospitals, Surat City Police, Airport Authority, the forensic department of the civil hospital, CISF, media organizations, volunteers, and social organizations in Surat and South Gujarat. He expressed that this honor would inspire him to advance the organ donation awareness campaign with even greater responsibility. It is noteworthy that Nilesh Mandalewala started the organ donation awareness campaign in Surat in 2005.

In the initial phase, there was a significant lack of awareness among people, but he did not give up. He spent hours standing outside hospital ICUs, explaining organ donation to the families of brain-dead patients. He faced opposition, humiliation, and difficult situations multiple times, but he continued his mission.

In 2014, he established the 'Donate Life' organization, through which extensive awareness about organ donation has been spread across the country via seminars, walkathons, exhibitions, radio-TV programs, and digital and social media campaigns. The organization has reached over 100 million people so far. Thanks to the efforts of Nilesh Mandalewala and his organization, over 1380 organs and tissues have been donated, giving new life and hope to more than 1270 people both domestically and internationally.

During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a crucial role in donating 203 organs and tissues from Surat, providing new life to 182 patients. For his contributions in the field of organ donation, he has received over 70 awards from various organizations in India and abroad, including the highest civilian award from the Gujarat government, the 'Gujarat Garima Award'. Today, the city of Surat, recognized as a textile and diamond city, has also made a distinct identity in the field of organ donation awareness, largely credited to Padma Shri Nilesh Mandalewala and his organization Donate Life.

Surat: FOSTA active regarding electrical safety in textile markets

Loktej English Team — Mon, 25 May 2026 19:53:42 +0530

Surat: The Federation of Surat Trade and Textile Association (FOSTA) is making continuous efforts to strengthen electrical safety and organized systems in various textile markets of the city. In this context, FOSTA held an important meeting with the Licensed Electrician Association after detailed discussions with officials from Torrent Power.

The meeting extensively discussed electrical issues in textile markets, wiring for load extension, inspection of new wiring throughout the market, electrical safety arrangements, and other technical issues. Additionally, it was agreed to prepare separate quotations for necessary work according to each connection. During the meeting, it was decided to conduct a market-to-market survey in coordination with the presidents of various market associations and their committees.

Under this survey, markets identified with electrical risks or technical deficiencies will be inspected and thoroughly examined by authorized officials from Torrent Power, to prevent potential electrical accidents in the future and provide a safe environment for traders. FOSTA has prioritized safety arrangements in textile markets and emphasized the regular maintenance of air conditioning units.

Efforts are being made to effectively implement the AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) system in each market, ensuring that AC units are serviced at least three times a year to reduce the likelihood of technical failures or accidents. FOSTA officials stated that the organization is committed to the safety and convenience of traders and the organized development of textile markets, and will continue to actively address issues related to trade interests and safety in the future.

Surat: Ravi Raj Desai's resounding victory in the election for the Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce

Loktej English Team — Mon, 25 May 2026 12:08:07 +0530

In the election for the Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce, which is well-known in the city's business and industrial sector, Ravi Raj Desai achieved a remarkable victory with a significant majority. His opponent Nitin Bharucha faced a crushing defeat, and his security deposit was also forfeited.

A total of 2505 votes were cast in the election, of which 18 votes were declared invalid. In the counting of 2486 valid votes, Ravi Raj Desai received 1887 votes, while Nitin Bharucha managed only 599 votes. Following this victory by a large margin, there was extensive discussion in the business community regarding Ravi Raj Desai's support.

According to sources, prior to the election, various names were discussed among several prominent members for the Vice President position. Attempts were made to reach a consensus on the names of Nitin Bharucha and Navalohiya, but ultimately, Ravi Raj Desai's name was approved as the acceptable candidate by all parties.

After the election results were announced, a festive atmosphere was observed among supporters. Representatives of business organizations and people from the industry congratulated Ravi Raj Desai and expressed hope for him to make the Chamber's activities more effective.

Surat: SGCCI's 4 mega events conclude with historic success, over 16,350 visitors in 3 days

Loktej English Team — Mon, 25 May 2026 12:07:45 +0530

The South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) organized 4 historic events simultaneously, including 3 mega expos and the 'Surat Startup Summit'. These events were held at the International Exhibition and Convention Center (SIECC) in Sarsana.

This three-day 'Mahakumbh' concluded today with grand success. The event was held from Friday to Sunday, daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with significant support from the esteemed organization TORIN Wealth Management. The event received unprecedented response from Surat and the entire South Gujarat region.

During these three days, over 16,350 business visitors, entrepreneurs, parents, and students attended the exhibitions. Jignesh Madhavani, Director and Chairman of TORIN Wealth Management, expressed happiness and praised the Chamber's team for organizing 4 events together. On the successful conclusion of the expo, the Chamber's President Nikhil Madras and Vice President and President (elect) Ashok Jirawala expressed great optimism, stating that the seeds sown today in the Chemical and Pharma Expo will grow into a massive banyan tree in the future.

They are confident that separate, independent, and autonomous expos will be organized for these two sectors in the coming days. Additionally, the Smart Education Expo proved to be extremely helpful for thousands of students and parents in shaping their future careers and receiving proper guidance, while the Surat Startup Summit has sown the seeds of innovation and new entrepreneurship among the youth of the region, which will change Surat's economic landscape in the future. On the very first day of the summit, the chief guest and Chairman of CHEMEXCIL, Satish Wagh, announced the inauguration of Chemexcil's high-tech office in Surat, providing a significant gift to the industrialists of South Gujarat.

Key highlights of the 4 events held include: 1. Chemical & Pharma Expo 2026: Organized by Chemexcil and the Chamber, this expo received support from the Gujarat government's indextb, as well as Acutas Chemicals, Ather Industry, Anupam Rasayan, HLE Glasscoat, and Yashasvi Rasayan. It showcased the latest technologies from pharmaceutical manufacturers, including specialty, industrial, agro, and fine chemicals, API and bulk drug manufacturers, as well as major manufacturers of laboratory equipment and process machinery, who gained significant business opportunities.

2. Smart Education Expo 2026: With primary support from TORIN Wealth Management, this expo featured participation from national and international universities, renowned schools, and prestigious colleges. It became a fantastic hub for class 10-12 and college students, graduates, and parents to explore smart educational options and career paths.

3. Surat Startup Summit 2026 (third edition): Supported by AIC SURATI iLAB Foundation and TiE Surat, this major platform provided high-potential startups with a great opportunity to present their plans directly to angel investors and venture capitalists for funding and business recognition.

4. SGCCI Business Connect (SBC) Business Expo 2026: By bringing together leading industrialists, entrepreneurs, and corporate professionals from various sectors on a single platform, this expo elevated business networking, strategic partnerships, and business development to new heights.

Vesu's Gaur Radha Krishna Mandir Immersed in Devotion During Shri Krishna-Rukmini Wedding Ceremony

Loktej English Team — Mon, 25 May 2026 12:07:21 +0530

The sixth day of the Shri Bhagwat Katha held at the Shri Shri Gaur Radha Krishna Mandir on the fourth floor of Times Square in Vesu celebrated the 'Shri Krishna-Rukmini Wedding' in an atmosphere of devotion and joy. A large number of devotees attended the event, filling the premises with devotional fervor and chants.

The main speaker of this spiritual discourse, based on the teachings of ISKCON founder Acharya Srila Prabhupada, is Indra Anuj Prabhu, the president of ISKCON Amritsar. The speaker described the wedding of Rukmini in an emotional style, explaining that Rukmini had accepted Lord Shri Krishna as her husband in her heart, but her brother Rukmi had arranged her marriage to Shishupal. In such a situation, Rukmini sent a message to Shri Krishna through a Brahmin, after which the Lord took her to Dwarka and performed the wedding with all rituals.

Indra Anuj Prabhu stated that this event is not just a wedding story, but a living symbol of the unwavering love, dedication, and faith of a devotee towards God. On this occasion, grand and attractive displays of the wedding of Lord Shri Krishna and Rukmini were showcased in the temple premises.

Devotees, both men and women, were overwhelmed with emotion and danced to the bhajans and congratulatory songs. The entire pandal was filled with a devotional atmosphere and the sounds of Harinaam Sankirtan.

Surat: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the newly constructed 'Jamanaba Vidyarthi Bhavan' by Saurashtra Patel Seva Samaj-Surat

Loktej English Team — Mon, 25 May 2026 12:06:03 +0530

In a significant step towards education and social upliftment, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the newly constructed 'Jamanaba Vidyarthi Bhavan' by Saurashtra Patel Seva Samaj-Surat, aimed at providing excellent higher education facilities to the community's youth. The magnificent 'Jamanaba Vidyarthi Bhavan', located at Maniben Chowk in Valak Patiya, Surat, features accommodation and study facilities for 1,000 students, an AI research lab, and a state-of-the-art library.

Additionally, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi unveiled a 31-foot tall, 9-ton Panchdhatu statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Distinguished guests paid floral tributes to the statue of Sardar Saheb. The inauguration of the auditorium named after the late former Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel was conducted by Union Minister of Labour and Employment, Sports Mansukhbhai Mandaviya, and Rajya Sabha MP Govindbhai Dholakia.

The building was inaugurated by Jayantibhai Babaria (Eklara) and Ravjibhai Vasani, Chairman of Annapurna Dham, by cutting the ribbon. On this occasion, the Chief Minister stated that every good deed and dedication done in the holy month of Adhik Maas yields immense rewards, and the Saurashtra Patel Seva Samaj has done the greatest work in truly pleasing Lord Purushottam through public welfare activities. This Patel organization is a living example of how quickly and on a large scale development can occur when we all work together.

Praising the sacrifices and generosity of the Patidar community, the Chief Minister noted that this community has always been accustomed to giving to others. Even in times of economic hardship, this community has maintained the tradition of helping those in need who come to their doorstep without worrying about their own families. The Patidar community, which has the strength to extract water by breaking stones, is no longer limited to agriculture but has become leaders in every field from industry, business, education, health, to the Parliament, conveying a message of social harmony and unity.

He further mentioned that it is the hard work of Patidar entrepreneurs that has made Surat famous worldwide as the 'Diamond City'. Besides diamonds, this community has also worked hard in the fields of textiles, embroidery, and construction, making Surat a major center for global trade. The Chief Minister praised this community, stating that a society that prioritizes education has always reached new heights of progress and prosperity.

While living in Surat and sustaining in the industrial world, this community has adopted the Prime Minister's mantra of 'Development through Heritage' and has preserved the rural culture and traditions of their homeland, prioritizing the development of their homeland as well. Commending the 44-year remarkable social journey of Saurashtra Patel Seva Samaj, the Chief Minister mentioned that the organization has conducted around 67 mass weddings, showing a new direction for social revolution. Additionally, the ongoing 'Planting Ideas' program for the past 140 weeks, aimed at guiding people towards better ideas, is also commendable.

The Chief Minister referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise to make the country 'Developed India and Self-Reliant India' by the year 2047. He made a special appeal to the people of Surat and community leaders to adopt the Prime Minister's call for the wise use of resources in the interest of the country in their daily lives. Saving petrol, making wise purchases of gold, and conserving water and electricity are all beneficial in the long run for us and the country.

The Chief Minister expressed firm confidence that the people of Surat and Saurashtra Patel Seva Samaj will fully support the Prime Minister's appeal and accelerate the work of nation-building. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi congratulated on the establishment of Jamanaba Bhavan, stating that it will be a boon for the sons and daughters of common families coming to Surat city for education from rural or remote areas of Saurashtra and Gujarat. He praised the donors, trustees, and Patidar leaders for the construction of the building, emphasizing that youth will no longer have to live in expensive rented flats in the city but can reside in a homely environment to realize their and their families' dreams.

Highlighting the need for social awareness to face the challenges of today's digital age, the Deputy Chief Minister stated that in today's era of social media and mobile phones, instead of scolding children for being busy on their phones, grandparents should take their grandchildren to the community grounds or temples to instill values. Regarding women's safety, the Deputy Chief Minister clearly stated that when a daughter falls prey to antisocial elements, instead of engaging in negative discussions about her or her family in society, she should be given courage and support. Generally, due to social fear, people hide such incidents, creating an atmosphere of fear in society.

Society should unite to support the police and government to teach a lesson to such antisocial elements and bring them back to the right path. He mentioned that the 31-foot statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the entrance of the building will inspire all the youth residing in the hostel to work dedicatedly for the country, state, and society, expressing gratitude for the construction of the world's tallest statue in Gujarat as 'Statue of Unity' to keep alive Sardar Saheb's ideals and contributions to the nation.

Surat: Special meeting of Laghu Udyog Bharati concluded, Chanchal Vachhani appointed as Women President

Loktej English Team — Sun, 24 May 2026 14:37:14 +0530

A special meeting of Laghu Udyog Bharati was held at Shri Marudhar Kesari Sari Pvt. Ltd., Regent Textile Market, Surat. Gujarat State President Ishwar Patel was prominently present at the meeting.

Addressing the meeting, Gujarat President Ishwar Patel stated that Surat is a major textile hub in the country. He emphasized the need to ensure maximum participation of industrialists and traders from Surat in the 16th IIF (Indian Industrial Fair) to be held at the Helicopter Ground in Gandhinagar in October. He mentioned that approximately 200,000 people are expected to attend this industrial fair, which will provide extensive new opportunities for industries.

Surat City President Ramavatar Parik highlighted the importance of organizational expansion and announced the establishment of a women's wing in Surat. Chanchal Vachhani has been entrusted with the responsibility of Women President. He expressed confidence that the number of women members will soon increase, leading to the expansion of the women's wing, and a women's entrepreneur conference will be organized in the near future to honor outstanding women entrepreneurs.

City Vice President Ramesh Rathi stated that currently, there are 7 units of the organization operating in Surat, which will be expanded to form a new executive committee. Division Vice President Hansraj Jain expressed gratitude to all the officials and workers present, stating that issues related to industry interests, trader interests, and national interests should be raised strongly through the organization. The meeting was attended by Joint Secretary Pankaj Sharma, Media In-Charge Shishpal Swami, Unit Presidents Om Prakash Kumawat, Radheshyam Sharma, Ganpat Bhati, Shrawan Singh Rajpurhoit, along with various unit officials and workers.