Surat(Information): Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani today presented awards to 42 entrepreneurs from all over India, including Surat, Mumbai and Delhi, in different categories at the 46th India Gems & Jewellery Awards function organised by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and sponsored by Union Commerce and Industries Ministry at Surat.

Speaking at the function at the Diamond City premises, he said the Indian diamond polishing and jewellery industry has shown to the world that it has the capacity to convert challenges into opportunities and set global trend.

Even when the world is reeling under the spectre of pandemic coronavirus Covid-19, he said the gems and jewellery sector has not lost its shine. It has recorded a growth of 8.50 per cent during FY 2020-21, exports touching Rs.67,000 crore. He exuded his confidence this industry will contribute major share in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s target of 400 billion dollar.

Mr. Rupani said the Gems & Jewellery Park taking shape at Surat will become a world-class centre for manufacturing to marketing and exports. Gujarat has attracted 40 per cent of total FDI received in India. It is time to develop and build the right infrastructure

He also released a souvenir on gems and jewellery.

Member of Parliament from Navsari and BJP State President C. R. Patil congratulated the award winners and lauded the industry continued to create jobs even during the difficult coronavirus times.

GJEPC India Chairman Colin Shah in his welcome address thanked the Central Government and Gujarat Government for extending full support for exports. He said that this industry has registered 18 per cent growth during the last 18 months. This is one industry which pays well to smallest employee contributing to their social well-being.

Lifetime achievement award winner Govindbhai Dholakia said that Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is a plain and simple man but has done big things for the smallest persons.

Prominent among those present at the function included Gujarat’s Minister of State for Health Kishorebhai Kanani, GJEPC Vice Chairman Vipul Shah, GJEPC Regional Manager Dinesh Navadia.