The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) recently held the landmark 50th India Gem & Jewellery Awards (IGJA), a celebration that brought together the crème de la crème of India’s gem and jewellery industry.
The event, graced by Maharashtra’s Governor Ramesh Bais and Mukesh Ambani, CMD of Reliance Group, honoured the top exporters in the industry with 24 awards across various categories. The awards night in Mumbai was not just a recognition of individual excellence but also a testament to the industry’s significant role in India’s economic and cultural landscape.
Industry Giants Honoured
The ceremony was illuminated by the presence of notable figures including Ramesh Bais, the Honourable Governor of Maharashtra, as the chief guest, and business magnate Mukesh Ambani as the Guest of Honour.
Representing the GJEPC were Vipul Shah, Chairman; Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman; Anoop Mehta, President of the Bharat Diamond Bourse; Milan Chokshi, Convener of Promotions & Marketing; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director. Additionally, Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director of GIA India, joined the prestigious gathering, celebrating the industry’s luminaries.
Russell Mehta of Rosy Blue (India) received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his “exemplary/impeccable contribution” to the industry, presented by Ramesh Bais in the presence of Mukesh Ambani. This accolade underscores the significance of leadership and vision in steering the gem and jewellery sector towards global recognition and prosperity.
Ramesh Bais, Hon. Governor, Maharashtra State, stated, “I am pleased to know that the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) is organising the India Gem & Jewellery Awards function in Mumbai on 30 March 2024. The Indian Gem and Jewellery industry accounts for 7 per cent of India’s GDP and employs more than 5 million skilled and semi-skilled workforce. It is heartening to note that Maharashtra is a major hub for gem and jewellery exports.
The GJEPC is playing a significant role in promoting Brand India through its multifaceted work for the industry and its members. I am sure, members of the Council will make their maximum contribution in realizing India’s goal of achieving a 5 trillion dollar economy. I congratulate all the awardees who are being honoured at the GIEPC 50th India Gem & Jewellery Awards and wish the Council success in its future endeavours.“
A Visionary Future
Mukesh Ambani, in his address, lauded the achievements of the industry: “I admire all that diamond exporters have achieved as you represent the true meaning of entrepreneurship and enterprise.” He added, “The golden jubilee of these prestigious awards not only signifies a proud milestone for the GJEPC but also highlights both the grand heritage and the dazzling future of the Indian gems and jewellery industry.” Ambani’s speech underscored the industry’s innovative growth and its burgeoning impact on the global luxury market, alongside its potential to double its global market share shortly.
Leadership’s Perspective
Vipul Shah, Chairman of GJEPC, reflected on the industry’s journey and its stature on the global stage: “Today, India stands tall as a global leader in the gem and jewellery sector… This progress is a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication, and collective vision of the industry stakeholders.” His message resonated with the broader goals of sustainable growth and innovation within the sector.
Leadership and Vision for the Future
Vipul Shah, Chairman of GJEPC, reflected on India’s global leadership in the sector, attributing it to the collective vision and hard work of industry stakeholders. “This progress is a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication, and collective vision of the industry stakeholders,” Shah remarked, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a prosperous and sustainable India.
Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman of GJEPC, celebrated the industry’s growth over the past five decades, highlighting India’s status as a preferred global sourcing destination for gems and jewellery.
Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director of GIA India, also congratulated GJEPC on the golden jubilee, commending the council’s commitment to recognizing excellence within the sector and ensuring the industry’s continued growth and prosperity.
Celebrating Collective Achievements
The 50th IGJA recognized a broad spectrum of the industry, from large enterprises to MSMEs, showcasing the diverse talent and contributions within the sector. Companies such as Renaissance Global Ltd., Vaibhav Global Ltd., Emeral Jewel Industry India Ltd., Laxmi Diamond, Kiran Gems, Kiran Exports, Hasmukh Parekh Jewellers, Ashok Jewellers, Jewelex India, Kiran Jewellery, Shree Momai Krupa Jewellery, Dhanera Diamonds, Oopal Diamonds, Amrapalli Exports, Industrial Jewels, Green Lab Diamonds and many others were honoured, highlighting the awards’ role in nurturing talent and innovation across the board.
Heena Vimal Dhorda and Foram Mehul Dhakan from M/s Shree Aavad Kruppa Jewellery were celebrated for their significant achievements, winning the Lifetime Achievement Award and Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, respectively.
Indusind Bank Ltd. was acknowledged for its role in supporting the industry, winning the Best Bank Financing the Gem & Jewellery Industry Award.
The 50th India Gem & Jewellery Awards marked a significant milestone, celebrating the past achievements and future aspirations of India’s gem and jewellery industry. The event underscored the sector’s pivotal role in the national economy, its contributions to employment, and its standing on the global stage. As the industry looks ahead, it remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence, ready to face future challenges and seize new opportunities.
