(Utkarsh Patel)

Surat city, which PM Modi described as a "Mini India," has truly become one in reality, hosting people from almost every region of the country who live, do business, and contribute to the nation's progress. Surat has birthed many social workers who arrived empty-handed but earned enough to give back open-handedly to the city and the nation through social service.

Today, Surat has several affluent social workers who act as generous patrons for various community causes. One such individual is Samrat Patil. Recently, he has been in the news after his name was omitted from an official felicitation ceremony organized by the administration for his community service. Samrat Patil is a young entrepreneur involved in the textile business. Known for his humble, wise, and sensitive nature, he refrained from making complaints anywhere despite the controversy. Rising from a modest background through hard work to become a successful businessman, he spends a significant portion of his income on religion and social welfare.

Due to his dedication to social causes, his work is widely discussed in areas like Udhna, Pandesara, and Limbayat. Notably, these regions report the highest crime rates in Surat and house a large section of the city's working class, which faces significant challenges in education, employment, and healthcare. Stepping forward to serve in these areas requires genuine courage and dedication.

Samrat Patil has undertaken various social initiatives across Udhna, Pandesara, and Limbayat. In education, he provides books, study materials, and fee assistance to poor and needy students to ensure no child is deprived of learning. In healthcare, free medical check-up camps, medicine distribution, and health awareness programs for women are organized. Skill development and training programs are also held for youth to help them become self-reliant. Additionally, ration kits, clothing, and daily necessities are regularly distributed to senior citizens, widows, and orphans. Seasonal relief efforts—such as water supply setups in summer, flood relief in the monsoon, and warm clothes distribution in winter—are integral to his work. All these activities are carried out selflessly to reach the most underprivileged sections of society. Furthermore, the credit for organizing the nation's largest Shiv Katha in Surat goes to Samrat Patil and his family.

A notable aspect of his work is that there appears to be no selfish motive or political objective behind it. While Samrat Patil frequently mentions PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah as his role models, stating that he is inspired by them to work selflessly for society, he stays above political factionalism and works by imbibing the motto of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (Together with all, development for all).

If young social workers like Samrat Patil—affectionately known as "Samrat Bhau"—continue their efforts and more such individuals emerge from every community residing in Surat, there is no doubt that "Mini India" Surat will shine just as brightly in the field of social service.

(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)