41st Indian Gem and Jewellery Awards honours gem and jewellery industry

The Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) bestowed Indian gem and jewellery industry with awards in various categories at 41st Indian Gem and Jewellery Awards at the Tata Theatre, NCPA, Nariman Point, Mumbai. The time was to acknowledge various initiatives, innovations, and milestones and hardwork of fellow people of industry. The Chief Guest presiding over the function was Devendra Phadnavis, Hon. Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

The awards night witnessed a remarkable attendance of the who’s who of the luminous commerce of gems and jewellery industry along with eminent names from the social and political sphere.

The young and dynamic CM of Maharashtra, Devendra Phadnavis presented a very dynamic speech. He said with a smile, “At the outset I would like to say that I too deserve an award for doing so many honours in one single night, in the same programme." He further continued, "The energy and the sentiment at these awards are no lesser than the Filmfare Awards. Tonight, we have awarded the real gems of the industry who have taken the industry to higher pedestals. The honourable PM's ‘Make in India’ campaign is geared up and raring to go but I'd like to start a 'Make in Maharashtra' campaign. Let me assure you that we are taking proactive steps for creating ease in the business atmosphere of Maharashtra. I know that the gem and jewellery industry is facing testing times as there a lot of international challenges. But, I am also aware that there have been many domestic challenges, too. Let me assure you that our government looks at value adders as our partners. We want to be your partners and want you to grow. With your growth the country and the state can grow. I know that there are movements that are trying to take the industry away from my state. I won't say come back, but I am saying expand there and expand more here in Maharashtra. Regarding the VAT issue I will talk to my finance minister and while presenting this budget we will allow you to give bank guarantee in form of VAT. I will also talk to the PM and FM regarding the licence of ABN Amro Bank and also give my letter of support for it. I invite the leaders of your industry to come and sit with us and guide us in making this industry more dynamic in Maharashtra. Thank you for inviting me for such a wonderful event and congratulations to all the winners."

The annual awards not only identify the exertions of the exporters of the Indian gem and jewellery industry, but it also rejoices the excellence displayed by the gems and jewellery exporters of India. The Tata theatre reverberated with ovations and applauds and most notably amusement as the hosts of the show were none other than very charming Mandira Bedi and extremely amusing Cyrus Broacha who with their humorous ways made the audience split their sides.

Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC presented the welcome speech in which he profusely thanked the dignitaries and all the members of the audience for their presence. He also stated, “This awards night was long awaited. It was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances but we are glad that this is the first council event in 2015. We are also very happy that honourable Chief Minister of Maharashtra has joined us for a council event for the very first time. To achieve such great success at such an young age is highly commendable and we are sure that under the guidance of honourable CM, the gem and jewellery sector will achieve greater heights."

The much awaited awards shower began at 8.30 pm. There were 263 nominations from 93 companies that participated this year. Apart from the usual rounds of awards, there were a few new categories that were introduced this year.

The lifetime achievement award was bestowed upon Navin Mehta of D. Navinchandra for his outstanding contribution to the industry. In his acceptance speech he said, "I entered the industry in 1957 when there was no export. In 1962, the export policy was launched and my first export was for 500 GBP. In these 58 years, I have seen the industry go through a lot of lows and highs but it has always sprung back with enhanced vigour. As I conclude, I would like to thank the trade, the council and everyone else for bestowing upon me such a wonderful honour."

“It is always an honour to receive prestigious awards by the Apex body of the Industry. We are thankful to our 7000 SRK family members including 2000 esteemed customers, banking partners and industry companions who’s invaluable support and trust in SRK, made us see the day. The award is recognition to the skills, talent and hard work of SRK family members who really put their heart in crafting one masterpiece. When a shining version of stone, I hold in my hand it brings a hidden smile on face, it is only because each one is crafted with Integrity,” Rahul Dholakia, MD SRK Exports while commenting on winning an award.

After a few more speeches from Nirupa Bhatt, MD, GIA-India & Middle East, Colin Shah, Convener- Awards Committee, GJEPC, etc., the shower of awards continued. The thank you note was presented by Ajesh Mehta, Co-Convener- Awards Commitee, GJEPC.