At least 15 young students reportedly died and several others injured in a major fire that broke out at a coaching centre in the Surat town of western state Gujarat Friday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed anguish at the incident and directed the state government to provide assistance to the victims.

"Extremely anguished by the fire tragedy in Surat. My thoughts are with bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly. Have asked the Gujarat Government and local authorities to provide all possible assistance to those affected," tweeted Modi.

Gujarat is the home state of Modi.

According to local media reports, there were around 50 students inside the coaching centre in the "Takshila Commercial Complex" when the fire broke out.

TV channels showed young students trying to jump out from the fourth floor of the ill-fated building in a bid to save their lives. Those who jumped out of the building were injured and have been admitted to a local hospital.

Latest reports said that the fire has been doused.

Further details of the fire incident are awaited.