The sixth edition of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Gems and Jewellery Summit took place on November 8, 2024, at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, bringing together key players from the global jewellery industry. The event, hosted by the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ), emphasized the theme of ‘Innovate, Elevate, Globalise,’ which focused on advancing India’s position in the international gems and jewellery market. Industry leaders, policymakers, and artisans congregated to discuss how India’s rich history of fine jewellery craftsmanship can drive the country toward becoming a global leader in the industry.
The summit served as an important platform for the exchange of ideas and strategies aimed at empowering India’s artisan community and enhancing the country’s reputation for excellence in jewellery design and production.
Celebrating India’s Jewellery Craftsmanship
India’s longstanding tradition of exquisite craftsmanship was prominently highlighted at the summit. As one of the world’s most renowned hubs for jewellery production, the country has a rich heritage of skilled artisans, many of whom have been perfecting their craft for generations. The summit underscored how this legacy can contribute to India’s ambition to become a dominant force in the global jewellery market.
The event provided a space for discussions on how to elevate Indian craftsmanship through innovation while staying true to traditional methods. A key focus of the summit was on how the sector can adapt to modern consumer preferences while maintaining the authenticity and artistry that define Indian jewellery.
Key Insights from Mr. Anil Sankhwal on Empowering Artisans
One of the highlights of the event was a plenary session titled “Forging Excellence: Advancing Artisan Skills and Vocational Pathway,” in which Mr. Anil Sankhwal, CoA Member of the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and Chairman of IIGJ Delhi, participated as a distinguished panelist. Mr. Sankhwal’s session explored the importance of empowering artisans through vocational training and skill development, focusing on bridging gaps in traditional skills while introducing new techniques to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market.
His insights resonated with industry leaders and policymakers, emphasizing the need to invest in the next generation of artisans. The session also delved into the role of innovation in advancing craftsmanship, setting new standards for quality and creativity in jewellery production. The discussion further emphasized the need for sustainable growth and practices within the artisan community to keep up with both global trends and consumer expectations.
Sustainability at the Forefront of Industry Growth
Another significant theme at the ICC Gems and Jewellery Summit was sustainability. Sabyasachi Ray, the Executive Director of the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), delivered a keynote address on how sustainability is becoming a central pillar in the jewellery industry. In his speech, Ray highlighted the importance of incorporating sustainable practices not only to meet the growing demand for ethical products from consumers but also to establish industry-wide benchmarks for environmental responsibility.
Sustainability has become a key concern for both manufacturers and consumers, especially as awareness around issues like ethical sourcing, environmental impact, and fair trade practices continues to grow. Ray pointed out that India’s jewellery sector has been increasingly aligning itself with global sustainability standards, addressing issues such as the ethical sourcing of gemstones and metals, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting transparent supply chains.
The call for a more sustainable future resonated deeply with the audience, with many industry professionals acknowledging the need for continued collaboration and innovation to drive responsible practices in the global market. As the demand for sustainable products rises, Indian jewellery manufacturers are well-positioned to lead the way by integrating sustainability into every stage of the production process.
India’s Growing International Presence in the Jewellery Market
The summit also focused on India’s growing presence in the international jewellery market. Over the years, India has become a leading player in the global jewellery trade, particularly in the manufacturing of diamonds, gold jewellery, and precious gemstones. Ray’s address outlined a range of initiatives aimed at expanding India’s reach in international markets, from leveraging new technology to strengthening the country’s presence at international trade shows.
India’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship, combined with its competitive pricing, makes it an attractive source for global buyers. However, the summit also recognized that the country must continue to innovate to stay ahead of international competitors and meet the evolving needs of consumers worldwide.
Supporting the Artisan Community
At the heart of the summit was a discussion on how to support and uplift India’s artisan community. Artisans have long been the backbone of India’s jewellery industry, and their craftsmanship is recognized worldwide for its exceptional quality and intricacy. However, the industry also faces challenges, including a lack of formal training, limited access to modern tools, and the threat of losing traditional skills to younger generations seeking alternative career paths.
Mr. Sankhwal’s session touched upon these challenges and offered solutions for empowering artisans through enhanced training programs, better access to resources, and initiatives to improve working conditions. Additionally, fostering innovation in the design and production process was seen as essential to attracting young talent into the industry and ensuring its continued success in the global marketplace.
The Future of the Gems and Jewellery Industry in India
Looking ahead, the future of the Indian gems and jewellery industry seems promising, with strong support for both artisans and the broader market. The summit’s discussions made it clear that a combination of innovation, sustainability, and a renewed focus on craftsmanship will propel India’s jewellery sector to new heights.
As global trends continue to evolve, India’s jewellery industry must remain agile and forward-thinking, leveraging its historical strengths while embracing modern technology and sustainability practices. The collaboration between industry leaders, artisans, and policymakers is essential to shaping the future of the industry, ensuring that India’s jewellery sector remains at the forefront of the global market.
Conclusion: Empowering India’s Jewellery Sector for Global Leadership
The ICC Gems and Jewellery Summit 2024 provided a powerful platform for discussing the future of India’s gems and jewellery industry. By focusing on key themes such as sustainability, craftsmanship, and global expansion, the event emphasized the importance of innovation and skill development in propelling India towards becoming a global leader in the sector. As the industry continues to evolve, India’s rich history of jewellery craftsmanship, combined with a commitment to sustainability and innovation, will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the global jewellery market.
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