As many as 586 students were felicitated by the minister during the programme. Students who have secured more than 70 per cent were invited for the felicitation ceremony. The students were given certificates and medals, while the first ten toppers were given trophies, apart from the medals and certificates.

Speaking on the occasion, Lakhawala said, ``The fact that there have been so many toppers from the city speak about the educational standards and sincerity among students of the city.''

He said that the toppers have done proud not only their parents but also the schools they have passed from. ``There could have been more toppers from the city, but more stress should be given on subjects like English and that is where the students lag behind,'' said Lakhawala.

He added that the other problem which he had noticed even among toppers was that even if they passed out as toppers from schools but they did not end up being in good courses due to the lack of personality development. He said that it was especially these students who should concentrate more on such courses to enable them for better prospects in the future.

This programme was organised for the fourth consecutive year by Lakhawala. Among others MLA Yogesh Patel and Mayor Bharti Vyas were also present.