6th August 2023, National: The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) proudly hosted the 8th edition of its esteemed charity dinner, 'Jewellers for Hope,' at a glittering event attended by industry leaders and philanthropists. Backed by lead partner - De Beers; Associate Partner – World Gold Council; and powered by GIA; the 'Jewellers for Hope' charity event once again garnered overwhelming support from Jewellers, Diamond Exporters, retailers, and global associations. The proceeds of the charity dinner were donated to Relief Projects India, a leading NGO focussed on women-child centric issues and education.

Leading actor Vicky Kaushal personally attended this event on behalf of Relief Projects India and spoke about the organisation and the impact it has created in India. Relief Projects India is a dedicated non-profit Trust committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the less fortunate through education, health, and awareness initiatives. The NGO's primary focus lies in addressing critical issues such as female infanticide, foeticide, boy-child preference, and the challenges faced by women and children in rural villages.

Addressing the attendees Vicky Kaushal said, “I would like to extend many thanks and gratitude to Jewellers for Hope and The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council for recognising and supporting a cause which is so close to my heart - Relief Projects India (RPI). I am extremely proud of the work that RPI has put in over the years for their education programme - Mountain View School, which is dedicated on providing quality education and a safe environment to all underprivileged kids in the area. I hope and wish that you all continue your support towards all such noble causes in the years to come as well.”

Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC said, "Since its inception, the gem and jewellery industry has been at the forefront of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, embracing the ethos of giving back to society and fostering unity for a common cause. Through the noble platform of 'Jewellers for Hope,' the Council has championed several meaningful causes, encompassing education, women's empowerment, sanitation, and more. This year, we are delighted to extend our support to Relief Projects India. Their dedication to addressing critical issues such as female infanticide, foeticide, boy-child preference, and the challenges faced by women and children in rural villages resonates deeply with our values. By working together, we firmly believe that we can create a powerful force for change, fostering positive transformation and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.”

Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group, said, “Diamonds for development makes the world shine like diamonds and this shine can be brighter than sun through initiatives such as GJEPC’s Jewellers for Hope. The jewellery business is privileged enough to bring smiles to people’s faces every day. The jewellery business celebrates people's relationships and magical moments and initiatives such as Jewellers for Hope bring joy and happiness to them. De Beers refers to such events as Stories Forever and they are core to our business strategies. These Stories Forever create positive impact on a cleaner, greener and safer world. We have a detailed and dedicated footprint and roadmap for global issues such as carbon footprint, traceability of diamonds, gem stones for the environment, socio-economic development and diversification, etc. Natural diamonds are the ultimate symbols of love and good work in the jewellery business improves the lives of all stakeholders. Jewellers for Hope is one such initiative and we need to extend magnanimous generosity to make a positive difference to make an amazing contribution.” Equally impressive was Rowley's generous contribution during the sit-down charity dinner. Rowley raised an impressive sum, which he will be donating to the charity of his choice.

Somasundaram PR, Regional CEO, World Gold Council, India, said, "Just as there is an increasing focus on responsibly sourced and sustainably produced products in the gem and jewellery business, there is enhanced focus on our industry constantly giving something back to society. Jewellers for Hope is part of the industry's CSR mandate within the broader ambit of globally accepted ESG principles. We have been working closely with GJEPC on various business initiatives and Jewellers for Hope is as strategic and significant as any of them. Women are the key target customer groups for our industry and it is good to note that this year the Jewellers for Hope charity recipient is Relief Projects India, which is focussed on women-child issues."

Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director, GIA India, said, “I thank GJEPC and the collective strength and wisdom of India’s gem & jewellery industry to give back to society. The Jewellers for Hope is a distinguished gathering of entrepreneurs, exporters and companies, which make a positive difference. Tonight we come together to transcend boundaries to protect the rights of women; to promote the girl child’s education and overall strive for gender equality. We, at GIA, have been making a difference in the lives of women to support them with knowledge, which helps to estimate the correct value of diamonds. GIA’s association with GJEPC dates back to many years and through the Jewellers for Hope initiative we started an initiative last year to educate female students and will be extending this chapter to Mumbai and Surat. The efforts of GJEPC, Jewellers for Hope and GIA may be drops in the ocean but to quote a famous poet, the ocean would miss something if these drops were not there!”

One of the evening's highlights was the spirited bidding round for an exclusive dinner with industry stalwarts Mr. C K Venkataraman, Managing Director at Titan Company, and Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group. The auction, led by Mr. C K Venkataraman, raised a staggering amount, dedicated to supporting the Nanhi Kali initiative. This noble cause aims to provide education and empowerment to underprivileged girls across the nation.

GJEPC’s Jewellers for Hope Launched in 2014, Jewellers for Hope is the altruistic initiative of the GJEPC, aimed at mobilizing the entire gem and jewellery industry - from manufacturers and traders to miners and retailers - to raise funds for commendable NGOs in various fields, including education, health, tribal welfare, women's empowerment, and more.

Over the years, the industry's generous contributions to 'Jewellers for Hope' have left an indelible impact, having contributed crores to 13 NGOs, uplifting countless lives. In previous editions, 'Jewellers for Hope' has extended support to various NGOs, including Make A Wish Foundation, Swades Foundation, Friends of Tribal Society, Voluntary Action Association (run by Nobel Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi), Giants Welfare International (run by Social Activist Shaina NC), Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayta Samiti or Jaipur Foot, Army Welfare, Tribal Integrated Development and Education Trust (TIDE), and Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC) and Live Love, Laugh Foundation.

मुंबई, 06 अगस्त 2023: आदिवासी और ग्रामीण बच्चों की शिक्षा के लिए काम करने वाली संस्था 'हेल्पिंग हैंड फाउंडेशन' द्वारा पालघर तालुका के अति दुर्गम क्षेत्र जिला परिषद विद्यालय सावर्डे के आदिवासी बच्चों को शैक्षिक सामग्री एवं स्कुल बैग वितरित की गई, साथ ही वृक्षारोपण भी किया गया| इस अवसर पर सभी सदस्यगण, सरपंच एवं ग्रामीण बड़ी संख्या में उपस्थित थे।

इस अवसर पर स्कूल के पहली से पांचवी कक्षा तक के लगभग ४० आदिवासी बच्चों को शैक्षिक सामग्री जिनमे नोटबुक, पेन, पेंसिल, कंपास बॉक्स, ड्राइंग नोटबुक कलर आदि, तथा स्कुल बैग और परीक्षा पैड वितरित किए गए। साथ ही संस्थान द्वारा छात्रों को स्वादिष्ट दोपहर का खाना दिया गया। इस अवसर पर संस्था के अध्यक ने कहा कि आगे भी इसी तरह विद्यालय में सहयोग करते रहेंगे. स्कूल के प्रधानाचार्य और सरपंच ने स्कूल में मदद के लिए संस्था को धन्यवाद दिया।

National, 3rd August 2023: The much-awaited 39th edition of IIJS Premiere 2023, organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), kick-starts today in Mumbai. This prestigious event brings together the gems and jewellery industry for an extraordinary showcase of excellence, innovation, and sustainability. IIJS Premiere 2023 promises to be the largest gathering of domestic and international buyers, offering Indian jewellery manufacturers an unparalleled platform to connect with retailers and explore product design and demand trends.

This year the IIJS Premiere is show simultaneously organised at two venues - the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC) from 3rd to 7th August, and the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC) from 4th to 8th August. Combined, these venues will accommodate 3,250 stalls and welcome 1,850 exhibitors, covering an expansive area of 70,000+ sq. mtrs of Exhibition Area.

The grand opening of the show was marked with the gracious presence of Guests of honour Mr. Mike Hankey, Consul General, Consulate General of USA; Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA; Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group; Mr. G.R. Radhakrishnan, Managing Director, GRT Jewellers India Pvt. Ltd. along with Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions; and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director amongst others.

The response to IIJS Premiere 2023 has been overwhelming, with a record-breaking 42,000 pre-registrations from across India. The event will witness more than 2,000 visitors from over 65 countries, including the USA, UK, UAE, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Fiji, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Muscat, Italy, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Kuwait, Germany, Turkey, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and many more. The distinguished guest list includes delegations from 16 nations, elevating the event to an unparalleled international stature.

Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “Last year, the show generated business worth ₹50,000 crore, and with the current trend of a 30% increase in visitor footfalls, we are optimistic about achieving at least 30% to 40% growth in business. More exhibitors and visitors translate to more opportunities for business transactions. Additionally, the market conditions are favourable, with stable gold prices and a robust economic growth in India and the surrounding regions like the Middle East. After some initial challenges, the market has stabilised. Considering the positive response we have received so far, I think IIJS Premiere 2023 will break all records of the past in terms of doing business. This will be our most successful show till date.”

Mr. Mike Hankey, Consul General, Consulate General of USA, said, “Like the rest of the world, the United States recognises the staggering potential of the Indian economy to bring prosperity to all of its citizens and to world partners. I congratulate those in the gem and jewellery industry who are doing so much to expand that prosperity to hire and advance those from underserved communities, from women into leadership roles on their staff. The United States understands the considerable importance of the diamond manufacturing industry to India and its immense contribution to employment that I've seen personally.”

Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group said, “India was already one of the world's top markets, but it has also been the fastest growing major market this year. The number of middleclass households is expected to grow 30 million in the next decade alone, something like almost 15 times the population of Botswana today. It's clear that the landscape in India will be a perfect platform for growth.”

“Two of the most important trends, we see in De Beers are around provenance and lab grown diamonds. In matters of provenance, we're seeing a growing interest about where diamonds come from, and more importantly, perhaps the impact they have on the people and places on their journey to the consumer.”

“It's not much of a surprise to see that natural diamonds at LGDS are rapidly diverging from each other. In such an environment of change, once again, the key to analysis to understand how to capture that opportunity.”

Mr. Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC, announced the success of the "One Earth" initiative, "Since the beginning of this year, GJEPC has embarked on a transformative journey towards environmental sustainability with the launch of the 'One Earth' initiative. Today, we are proud to announce that the initiative has surpassed all expectations, achieving the target of planting 1 lakh trees. This remarkable accomplishment is not only making a positive impact on the environment but also generating an astonishing Rs. 100 crore for marginal farmers, fostering robust economic growth in rural communities. Moreover, our collective efforts will lead to a reduction of 40,000 tons of Carbon dioxide, and will produce an impressive 67,000 tons of vital oxygen and create 220 acres of lush green cover, nurturing biodiversity."

Recognizing the labour-intensive nature of this sector, the government on its part has taken several steps to boost exports. Shah said that the new e-commerce policy promises to boost retail exports, opening up exciting avenues for growth, while Strategic Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with UAE and Australia have facilitated international trade. The Ministry is on the verge of finalising couple of more FTAs with in the near future.

Shah pointed out that the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's backing has led to the establishment of a Mega Common Facility Center (CFC) in SEEPZ, while the Maharashtra Government's support has paved the way for a Jewellery Park in Mumbai. The India Jewellery Park Mumbai is set to be a transformative project that propels the gem and jewellery industry in Maharashtra to new heights. Through its integrated approach, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and comprehensive support services, the Park will contribute significantly to the growth and expansion of the Indian jewellery sector. It is estimated to generate 1 lakh jobs in the sector.

These initiatives demonstrate the commitment of both central and state governments to foster the growth of this dynamic industry. With such robust governmental support, our sector shines with renewed vigor, poised for even greater achievements in the future, said Shah. Shah announced a series of initiatives as GJEPC is hosting the India Show alongside the Hong Kong show in September, providing a valuable platform for Indian gem and jewellery businesses to showcase their offerings to international buyers.The India Jewellery Exposition (IJEX) Centre in Dubai is yet another initiative by GJEPC, serving as a one-stop destination for the world to source Indian jewellery. This 365-day exhibition platform will promote specific categories of 'Made in India' gems & jewellery, reinforcing India's leadership role in the global market.

USA accounts for 33% of India's gem & jewellery exports. However, after the termination of India's GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) designation by the USA, exports of around 45 gem and jewellery commodities, which were previously enjoying duty-free benefits, are now attracting duties in the USA. Shah requested the US Counsel General to look into this matter, and hoped to foster an environment that will facilitate a mutually beneficial trade relationship between the two nations.

In the presence of Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group, Shah said that there is a need to further boost the generic promotion of diamonds. De Beers and GJEPC share a common vision of enhancing the overall appeal and desirability of diamonds. By joining forces, we can leverage our collective expertise and resources to create impactful marketing campaigns that resonate with consumers globally, nurturing a deeper appreciation for diamonds as cherished symbols of love, beauty, and enduring value, he added.

IIJS Premiere 2023 is all set to make history as it goes completely paperless. Embracing sustainability and convenience, attendees can now enjoy the ease of fully digital badges, taking a giant leap towards eco-consciousness. IIJS is introducing an initiative, Innov8 Global, for the first time, facilitating tailored product-specific matchmaking between international buyers and manufacturers. This innovative platform aims to enhance business interactions and foster productive partnerships like never before. Retailers, get ready to experience the "Prime" Visitor Package, offering VIP access to the show! With priority access, a high-speed WiFi zone, a dedicated Prime Lounge, and a special Help Desk, this package promises to elevate your experience to the next level.

As the curtains rise on IIJS Premiere 2023, the gems and jewelry industry gears up for an unparalleled event, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, cutting-edge designs, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. We look forward to welcoming you to this exceptional extravaganza! At the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC), prepare to be dazzled by an extraordinary showcase of 500 exhibitors occupying 700 booths, presenting a stunning array of diamond, gemstone, and studded jewellery, including gold and gold CZ studded jewellery. In addition, JWCC features exclusive sections dedicated to loose diamonds, lab-grown diamonds in both loose and jewellery forms, laboratories, and education for diamonds and loose stones.

In line with its commitment to sustainability and convenience, IIJS Premiere 2023 has taken a giant leap towards eco-consciousness by going completely paperless. Attendees now enjoy the ease of fully digital badges, making their participation seamless and environmentally friendly. The organizers have gone the extra mile to ensure the comfort and convenience of exhibitors and visitors alike, securing an astounding 10,000 room nights across 25 hotels. Among the show-stopping features lined up, attendees can look forward to the highly anticipated innov8 talks at both venues - JWCC and BEC, offering insightful discussions on the industry's latest trends and innovations. Moreover, IIJS Premiere 2023 is celebrating the future leaders in the industry with its "40 under 40" program, acknowledging outstanding talent and recognizing the best of the best. Highlighting the achievements and contributions of the industry, IIJS celebrated leading retailers and industry icons at the IIJS Celebration Night, paying tribute to the true shining stars of the gems and jewellery world. Retailers are in for a treat with the exclusive "Prime" Package, which grants VIP access to the show, offering priority entry, access to a high-speed WiFi zone, a dedicated Prime Lounge, and a special Help Desk, elevating the overall experience to the next level. IIJS Premiere 2023 continues to impress with its remarkable statistics and impressive offerings, bringing together the world's gems and jewellery industry in a dazzling extravaganza that showcases the very best in craftsmanship, innovation, and global connections.

About The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), set up by the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India (GoI) in 1966, is one of several Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) launched by the Indian Government, to boost the country’s export thrust, when India’s post-Independence economy began making forays in the international markets. Since 1998, the GJEPC has been granted autonomous status. The GJEPC is the apex body of the gems & jewellery industry and today represents 9000 members in the sector. With headquarters in Mumbai, GJEPC has Regional Offices in New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Surat and Jaipur, all of which are major centres for the industry. It thus has a wide reach and is able to have a closer interaction with members to serve them in a direct and more meaningful manner. Over the past decades, GJEPC has emerged as one of the most active EPCs and has continuously strived to both expand its reach and depth in its promotional activities as well as widen and increase services to its members.