Govind Dholakia has been named as the new chairman of the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), India’s second major diamond trading hub. This leadership change follows Vallabh Lakhani’s resignation from the role, three months after the SDB’s opening ceremony, which was presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This move marks an important leadership transition at the SDB, reflecting both a continuation of its founding visions and an introduction of new leadership dynamics.
Change in Leadership
The need for a new chairman arose after Vallabh Lakhani decided to step down. Lakhani had played a crucial role in the development and launch of the SDB but had planned to leave the position once the project was successfully completed. He was notably the first to move his operations from Mumbai to Surat, although he later reopened his business in Mumbai. A committee member shared, “Vallabh Lakhani had earlier indicated that he will handhold the project only till its completion and handover. He had expressed his inability to continue taking responsibility.”
Despite this temporary setback, Lakhani, along with ten others, is expected to return and commence diamond business operations at the SDB in the near future.
Dholakia’s New Role
Govind Dholakia, the founder of Shree Ramkrishna Exports (SRK), takes over as chairman, bringing his extensive experience in the diamond industry to the position. His recent political appointment as a Rajya Sabha MP from the state by the BJP adds an additional aspect to his leadership role at the SDB. Under Dholakia’s leadership, the committee plans to establish a two-year term for the chairman’s position, aiming for more structured governance. “In the coming months, the new committee under Dholakia is expected to fix a two-year term for the SDB chairman,” mentioned a committee member.
What This Means for the Industry
The appointment of Govind Dholakia as the SDB chairman is significant for the diamond industry, indicating a commitment to both continuity and new leadership at a critical time for the Surat Diamond Bourse. His background in both the diamond industry and politics could provide new opportunities for the SDB to strengthen its position in the global diamond market.
