Surat - Loktej English

Surat: Grand Science and Art Exhibition Held at S.D. Jain Modern School, Over 1000 Models Created as Center of Attraction

Loktej English Team — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 20:00:07 +0530

A grand two-day science and art exhibition was organized at S.D. Jain Modern School on June 30 and July 1, 2026, in memory of the founding president, the late Devarajji Jain. The exhibition showcased innovative projects and working models prepared by students on various subjects including science, mathematics, language, social science, commerce, psychology, entrepreneurship, and painting.

The chief guest of the event was Anurag Dubey (IRS), Additional Income Tax Commissioner, who inaugurated the exhibition in the presence of the school's administrators Kailashji Jain, Anandji Jain, Ashokji Jain, and Principal Chetan Dalwala. On this occasion, the school administration encouraged students to adopt innovation, research, and creative thinking. This year's main theme for the exhibition was 'Sustainability, Food Security, Gender Equality, Technology, and Artificial Intelligence in Education.' More than 1000 working models were presented, with a special focus on modern technology and solutions to social challenges.

The science department displayed models on sustainable development, disaster management, solar agriculture, facial recognition attendance systems, automatic irrigation systems, and smart dustbins. The mathematics department featured models such as numerology, transmission line faults, math mystery boxes, and logarithm and exponential formula machines. The English department presented projects based on food security, hydroponics, vertical farming, and agricultural innovations, while the Hindi department showcased models on natural disaster management, sustainable land management, food security in 2050, Hindi teaching through artificial intelligence, and the utility of chemical and household fertilizers.

The Sanskrit department provided presentations based on the solar system, Ganga descent, and astronomical concepts. The social science department displayed projects related to women's empowerment, organic farming, land conservation, and solutions to global hunger issues. Additionally, the accountancy, business studies, entrepreneurship, economics, and psychology departments presented innovative models on financial management, cloud fraud, AI-based education, community development, psychological testing, and school resilience.

The exhibition also featured attractive displays on topics such as Digital India, robotics, best from waste, pollution control, natural disasters, mathematical models, assistance devices for the differently-abled, remote sensors, and RO plants. Over 2800 students enthusiastically participated in the two-day exhibition. Students confidently presented information about their projects, which was appreciated by guests, parents, and visitors.

Parents actively supported the event and expressed their expectation for more such educational and creative events in the future while praising the efforts of students and teachers. The school also expressed pride in receiving the 'India's Best School 2025' award for notable achievements in academic excellence and co-curricular activities. At the conclusion of the program, the school administration and Principal Chetan Dalwala expressed gratitude to all students, teachers, and parents, encouraging students to continue striving for innovation and excellence in life.

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Surat: Shyam Rathi awarded Bhama Shah honor for contribution to water conservation

Loktej English Team — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:24:25 +0530

The 30th state-level Bhama Shah award ceremony-2026, organized by the Education Department and Rising Rajasthan, Government of Rajasthan, took place on June 29, 2026, in Jaipur. Shyam Rathi, a resident of Surat and president of the Rajasthan Foundation, was honored with the 'Bhama Shah award' for his notable contributions to water conservation in Rajasthan.

Media in-charge Mahesh Pungaliya reported that the award was presented to Shyam Rathi by Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister Premchand Baidwa and Minister of Education and Panchayati Raj Madan Dilawar at the Birla Auditorium in Jaipur. After receiving the award, Shyam Rathi stated that this honor is not just a personal recognition but also a tribute to all the expatriate Rajasthanis who maintain a deep connection with their homeland and the soil of Marwar, even while living outside Rajasthan.

He emphasized that with the support of society, efforts in education, water conservation, and public welfare will continue. The ceremony also honored 60 expatriate individuals with the Education Bhushan award and recognized 15 others for their contributions in various social support areas.

Surat: Central Government's Decision on SGCCI's Demand, Customs Duty Relief on MEG and PTA Extended Until July 15

Loktej English Team — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:23:58 +0530

The central government has extended the period of customs duty relief on Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) and Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) until July 15, 2026, based on the demand of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI). This decision is expected to provide significant relief to Surat's polyester and man-made fiber (MMF) based textile industry.

The chamber had written to the chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) on June 24, 2026, requesting an extension of the customs duty relief period for MEG and PTA. Following this, the revenue department of the finance ministry issued notification G.S.R. 529(E), amending the earlier notification number 13/2026-Customs dated April 1, 2026. According to the revised notification, the relief, which was initially applicable until June 30, 2026, will now remain effective until July 15, 2026.

SGCCI noted that due to geopolitical conditions in West Asia, there has been significant volatility in the international prices of crude oil and related products. This has directly impacted the prices of key raw materials MEG and PTA used in the polyester industry. Although there has been some improvement in the international market situation, the expected reduction in the prices of crude-based raw materials in the Indian market has not occurred.

As a result, manufacturing units in the polyester and MMF sectors continue to face additional pressure on production costs. The chamber had urged the central government to extend the customs duty relief period to help industries control raw material costs and remain competitive in both domestic and global markets.

SGCCI believes that this government decision will reduce production costs, alleviate pressure on industries' working capital, and strengthen competitive capacity in the export and domestic markets. The chamber expressed gratitude to the central government, the finance ministry (revenue department), and CBIC for making prompt and positive decisions on industry demands, and stated that it will continue to effectively raise issues related to trade and industry in South Gujarat before the government to protect the interests of industries.

Chamber's Major Proposal to Make Surat Airport a World-Class Hub, Demand for Direct Flights for Mini-India of 26 States

Loktej English Team — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 19:32:11 +0530

Surat. The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) made a significant initiative to develop Surat International Airport as a world-class aviation hub in line with future needs, presenting a detailed proposal to Pulla Hizhikya, Regional Executive Director of Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the Western Region.

The meeting was held on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Samhati in Sarsana. Present at the meeting were Chamber President Ashok Jirawala, Honorary Minister Paresh Lathia, Honorary Treasurer Atul Patel, Mentor of the Aviation and Airport Committee Rajnikant Marfatia, Committee Chairman Linesh Shah, Surat Airport Director Anand Sharma, senior officials from the Airports Authority, and members of the Chamber's Aviation and Airport Committee. During the meeting, Ashok Jirawala stated that citizens from 26 states are connected to employment, industry, and business in Surat.

Therefore, it is essential to provide adequate domestic flight services for these states. He presented a long-term and comprehensive plan to develop Surat International Airport in accordance with global standards. The Chamber provided several important suggestions for the overall development of the airport, which primarily included the establishment of an international air cargo terminal, modernization of approach lighting systems and air navigation facilities, a dedicated international passenger terminal, and future terminal expansion.

Significant increases in aircraft parking (apron) capacity, establishment of Aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, modernization of existing hangars for NSOP, MRO, flying training, and general aviation activities, expansion of airside infrastructure to develop the capacity for simultaneous operation of more aircraft, runway extension, and plans to re-operate approximately 615 meters of removed runway sections were also suggested. The Chamber emphasized the need to prepare a long-term airport master plan in line with Vision-2047, develop an aerotropolis and airport economic zone, and timely planning for a greenfield or second airport considering future needs. Improvements in public transport, last-mile connectivity, and traffic management, development of smart airport technology, passenger amenities, and landscaping, as well as promotion of green airport initiatives like solar energy, electric vehicles, and rainwater harvesting were also highlighted.

The Chamber stated in its presentation that Surat is among the fastest-growing economic centers in the country. The city's global identity in diamonds, textiles, engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, MSME, solar, and the service sector is continuously strengthening. Given the increasing international trade, investment, and tourism, world-class airport infrastructure has now become indispensable.

The presentation also emphasized the expansion of general aviation facilities, establishment of aviation training and skill development centers, enhancement of air traffic control capacity, and development of necessary infrastructure for operating more domestic and international flights. AAI assured positive consideration of the suggestions. Pulla Hizhikya, Regional Executive Director of AAI, appreciated the Chamber's practical and visionary presentation and assured that all suggestions would be positively considered.

He also provided information about the ongoing and proposed development projects at Surat International Airport and reiterated AAI's commitment to developing world-class facilities in line with the region's growing needs. At the end of the meeting, the Chamber expressed confidence that with the joint efforts of the Airports Authority of India, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Gujarat government, and the industry, Surat International Airport would become the leading international aviation, trade, and connectivity center in Western India in the coming years, providing new momentum to the economic development of South Gujarat.

Surat: Mahavir International Surat organizes free medical and eye check-up camp

Loktej English Team — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:46:45 +0530

Mahavir International, main branch–Surat organized a free medical and eye check-up camp at Jesal Silk Mills Pvt. Ltd. In Kadodara.

A large number of people benefited from the health services provided during this service initiative, supported by the organization's member and trustee Veer Ravindra Jain. The medical examinations were conducted by a team of specialist doctors from Nirmal Hospital, Surat. During the camp, blood sugar, blood pressure, height, weight, and pulse rate of over 186 beneficiaries were checked.

Additionally, free ECG tests were conducted for 55 individuals. After the examinations, patients were given medical consultations and referred for further treatment as needed. The eye check-up camp was conducted by a specialist team from Dr. Mahendrasinh and Shri K.

P. Sanghvi Eye Hospital, Surat, where the eyes of 192 needy individuals were examined. Out of these, 180 beneficiaries received free glasses, and eye drops were also provided to those in need.

Patients suffering from cataracts were referred for further treatment. The arrangements for the camp were well-organized. Veer Rishabh Ravindra Jain and his team made significant contributions with a spirit of service.

Approximately 35 members of the organization actively participated in this service initiative. Veera Nisha Sethia, Gujarat Zone Chairperson, was present as a special guest at the event.

On this occasion, Veer Ravindra Jain, who recently completed the Updhan Mahatapa, and his wife Veera Sunita Jain were honored with a memento, shawl, and garland. The officials of Mahavir International, main branch–Surat stated that the organization is continuously playing an active role in social service and human welfare, following the principles of 'Service to All – Love for All' and 'Live and Let Live.'

Surat: BIS action against jewelry shop selling non-hallmarked gold ornaments

Loktej English Team — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:46:17 +0530

Officials from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) conducted a raid on a jewelry shop in Bardoli, Surat district, for selling non-hallmarked gold ornaments. The action took place on June 29, 2026, during which approximately 241.5 grams of such gold ornaments, using illegal BIS hallmarks, were seized.

The BIS team inspected the jewelry shop located at Kalubhai Govindbhai Maiti, C-3, Parkinza Shopping Center, Station Road, Bardoli, Surat. During the investigation, gold ornaments were found that were sold without permission and had illegal hallmarks. According to BIS officials, the sale and storage of gold ornaments without or with illegal BIS hallmarks is against regulations.

Hallmarking of gold ornaments has been made mandatory under the Gold Jewelry and Gold Artifacts Hallmarking Order issued by the Government of India on September 6, 2023. This rule is applicable in 27 districts of Gujarat, including Surat. Under this rule, no manufacturer or trader can sell or store gold ornaments without hallmarks.

BIS stated that violations of the rules are subject to action under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. If found guilty, penalties can include imprisonment for up to one year or a minimum fine of 100,000 rupees, or both. According to BIS officials, some jewelers sell non-hallmarked ornaments to confuse customers.

To protect the public from such fraud, the department conducts inspections and raids from time to time. BIS has appealed to the general public that if anyone has information about the misuse of the BIS mark or violations of mandatory certification product rules, they can report it to the BIS Surat branch office. The identity of the complainant will be kept confidential.

Surat: 'Global Fabric Expo-2026' sees a business potential of ₹600 crores, over 35,000 visitors attended in 3 days

Loktej English Team — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 23:27:02 +0530

Surat. The three-day 'Global Fabric Expo-2026', organized by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) from June 26 to 28, 2026, at the Surat International Exhibition and Convention Center (SIECC) in Sarsana, successfully concluded on Sunday.

The expo witnessed significant participation from buyers and industry representatives from both domestic and international markets. According to the organizers, exhibitors at the exhibition are expected to receive business worth over ₹600 crores in the form of spot and potential orders. Chamber of Commerce President Ashok Jirawala stated that the expo aimed to provide a common business platform for fabric manufacturers, textile entrepreneurs, garment manufacturers, fashion designers, exporters, and wholesale buyers, achieving remarkable success.

He mentioned that around 20,000 visitors attended the exhibition in the first two days, while approximately 15,000 people visited the expo on Sunday, despite it being a holiday. In total, over 35,000 visitors and more than 2,500 actual buyers participated in the exhibition over the three days. Jirawala noted that a large number of buyers and purchasing managers from various corporate companies came specifically to the expo from major textile markets across the country, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Erode, Pune, Varanasi, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Kolkata, Lucknow, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi.

The expo chairman, Dr. Haresh Patel, mentioned that this time, modern technology-based fabrics attracted special attention from buyers. The demand was particularly high for position print viscose fabrics, salsa plain and salsa booty fabrics made on airjet machines. Additionally, buyers favored nylon fabric, top-dyed saree fabric, plain fabric made on waterjet looms, and dobby fabric for home furnishing.

Dr. Patel reported that during the exhibition, there was a significant number of inquiries and orders from garment manufacturers regarding waterjet value addition fabric and denim fabric. The positive feedback from buyers has opened new business opportunities for Surat's textile industry. The organizers believe that this expo not only provided a successful platform to connect Surat's textile industry with national and international buyers but also laid a strong foundation for future export and domestic business growth.

Signing of MoU between Surat Chamber and Ghana India Chamber, new business opportunities will open for industries of both countries

Loktej English Team — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 23:26:34 +0530

Surat. A significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Friday, June 26, 2026, between the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and the Ghana India Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The aim of this agreement is to give new momentum to trade, industry, investment, and bilateral economic cooperation between India and Ghana. This partnership is expected to provide new business opportunities for entrepreneurs and traders from both countries. The President of the Chamber of Commerce, Ashok Jirawala, stated that it is essential to have complete information about the government schemes, industrial policies, and investment incentives of any country before starting trade with them.

He mentioned that entrepreneurs from South Gujarat will initially start trading with Ghana on a small scale, which will be gradually expanded in the future. He also noted that establishing coordination through the Chamber for business activities with Ghana will provide better guidance and support to industries. The Executive Director of the Ghana India Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Stephen Kwaku Darku, mentioned that Ghana is an attractive business destination for entrepreneurs from Surat and South Gujarat.

He explained that due to Ghana's free trade policy, establishing a business there is relatively easy. He stated that there are extensive opportunities for investment and establishment of industries, particularly in the textile, pharmaceutical, electrical, and solar sectors. The Ghana India Chamber will provide all necessary support for entrepreneurs to start businesses and investments.

At the end of the program, the Chamber's Honorary Secretary, Paresh Lathia, expressed gratitude to all guests and participants. Present at the event were the Chairman of the Ghana India Chamber of Commerce and Industry, David Bryan Obro, Executive Director Stephen Kwaku Darku, member Solomon Viaf, and Honorary Treasurer Atul Patel from the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, along with officials from both organizations and representatives from the industry. The Chamber believes that this agreement will give a new direction to trade relations between India and Ghana and will serve as an important means for the industries of South Gujarat to expand into the international market.

Surat: 108 Units of Blood Collected at the First Blood Donation Camp of Bahawalpur Samaj

Loktej English Team — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 23:16:43 +0530

Bahawalpur Samaj organized a successful blood donation and free health check-up camp on Sunday at Shri Radhakrishna Mandir Dham located at Parle Point. This was the first blood donation camp in the history of the community, where people participated enthusiastically, resulting in the collection of 108 units of blood.

The camp, held from 9 AM to 3 PM, saw a large number of people benefiting from health services. During this time, 150 people underwent general body check-ups, 80 people had their eyes examined, and 40 people availed of the ECG testing service. In total, 280 people benefited from the free health check-up services.

The chief guests included Mathurbhai Sawani, Chairman of Kiran Hospital, and Dr. Naresh Aurora from Aurora Hospital, who appreciated the service work done by the community. Under the leadership of community president Pradeep Kinger, vice president Harish Ahuja, secretary Hari Kishan Bhagat, and assistant secretary Praveen Aurora, all officials successfully managed the arrangements for the camp.

The service work organized by Bahawalpur Samaj, which has around 250 members in Surat, was praised by the attendees and community members. The aim of the event was to provide essential services like health and blood donation to those in need along with community service.

Surat: 'Global Fabric Expo-2026' inaugurated in Sarsana by State Minister Dr. Jayaram Bhai Gamit

Loktej English Team — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 12:54:48 +0530

Surat. The 'Global Fabric Expo-2026' was inaugurated on Friday at the Surat International Exhibition and Convention Center (SIECC), Sarsana, under the joint auspices of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and the South Gujarat Chamber Trade and Industries Development Center by Dr. Jayaram Bhai Gamit, the Gujarat government's Minister of Industry, Sports, Youth Services, and Cultural Activities.

After the inauguration, he observed the exhibition, visited various stalls, and interacted with entrepreneurs associated with the textile industry. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Gamit stated that Surat has become the leading textile hub in the country. The industrialists here have established a strong identity not only nationally but also internationally through quality, innovation, and modern technology.

He mentioned that such exhibitions provide an effective platform for local manufacturers to connect with national and global markets. He emphasized the significant role of the textile industry in realizing the visions of 'Make in India', 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', and 'Developed India-2047'. The state government is continuously encouraging industrial development by providing modern facilities, simple industrial policies, and necessary infrastructure.

The state minister noted that after the agricultural sector, the textile industry is the largest employment provider in the country. He praised the global trade, investment, and job creation leadership of Surat's textile entrepreneurs, stating that technology-based production, quality improvement, and products meeting global standards are continuously strengthening Surat's textile industry. He added that such exhibitions play a crucial role in establishing new business relationships, attracting investments, and creating new employment opportunities.

During the exhibition, he also gathered information about fabrics, textile machinery, modern technology, and various products related to the industry and congratulated the organizers for the successful event. Present at the event were SGCCI President Ashok Jirawala, Global President of Grasim Industries Limited Murugan Thangondar, CEO and Founder of Ajmera Fashion Limited Ajay Ajmera, Founder of Surjan International Amit Dobhariya, Manager of Bombay Dyeing Rajneesh Datt, along with numerous textile industrialists, manufacturers, exporters, traders from across the country and abroad, and a large number of visitors.

Surat: Seminar held on challenges and management of the textile industry

Loktej English Team — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:30:07 +0530

A seminar on topics related to the textile industry was organized on Thursday, June 25, under the joint auspices of DGDC Limited and DIP Industrial Management Services Limited. Anupama Sultania from Stratefix provided important suggestions to entrepreneurs connected with the textile industry to understand the complexities related to management and operations and their solutions.

She elaborated on the employee selection process, current issues faced by workers, and the possibilities of changes in the industry according to market demand fluctuations. Industry operators present at the event discussed various challenges related to the industry and received guidance from experts.

Several entrepreneurs, including Ramkishore Dani, Subhashchand Goyal, Rajeshbhai, Suresh Jhalawadia, Maheshbhai Wataliya, Mansukhbhai Sanghani, Jeetubhai Rajdaria, Rajnikant Panchal, Pareshbhai Radaria, Gaurav Jain, and Sushil Vagadia, were present at the seminar. Ajay Sharma, Kajal Pandey, Hardik Mahale, Alam Bhai, and Virendra Sharma, among other team members from DGDC, played a significant role in making the event successful.

Steamhouse India raises ₹50 crore ahead of IPO

Loktej English Team — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:29:50 +0530

Steamhouse India Limited, which provides industrial steam utility services, has raised approximately ₹50 crore from investor Madhusudan Kela-backed funds and Nivesh Aay Samarth Fund ahead of its proposed initial public offering (IPO). The company announced in a public notice on Thursday that it has allocated 6,849,315 shares at an issue price of ₹73 per share, raising a total of ₹49.99 crore through private placement.

Under this transaction, Singularity Large Value Fund-III invested ₹34.99 crore for 4.794 million shares, while Singularity Equity Fund-I invested ₹5 crore by purchasing 685,000 equity shares. Nivesh Aay Samarth Fund invested ₹9.99 crore, for which it was allocated 1.37 million equity shares. According to the regulations of the capital market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the size of the proposed new share issue under the IPO will be reduced to the amount raised through pre-IPO placement.

The Surat-based company had submitted updated documents for its proposed IPO to SEBI in December. According to the updated draft documents, the IPO will consist of a mix of ₹345 crore in new shares and an ₹80 crore offer for sale (OFS). The funds raised from the IPO will be used by the company to repay a portion of its existing debt, enhance the capacity of its plants located in Ankleshwar and Panoli, establish a new steam production unit in the Dahej Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and meet general corporate needs.