India, June 10 -- Eight youngsters from Jaipur drowned in the Banas River in Rajasthan's Tonk district while three others were rescued, police said on Tuesday.

Preliminary information suggests the group of 11- believed to be between 25 and 32 years of age- had come to Tonk to celebrate a friend's birthday. Some entered the river to swim, and others reportedly followed in an attempt to help when they began drowning.

After locals learned of the incident, they immediately informed the police, and a joint rescue operation was launched.

Tonk superintendent of police (SP) Vikas Sangwan said that eight of the victims were declared dead by doctors.

The deceased were identified as Naushad Khan, Rusim Khan, and Farhan Khan - all natives of Hasa...