India’s First Mega CFC for the Gems and Jewellery Industry at SEEPZ dedicated to the Nation

The Bharat Ratnam-Mega CFC heralds a new era of Make in India and Design in India, says Shri Piyush Goyal, adding, that Bharat Ratnam symbolizes the Government’s commitment to driving innovation, economic growth, and technological progress.

MUMBAI: India’s first Mega Common Facility Centre opens in SEEPZ SEZ Mumbai for the gem & jewelry industry. Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon. Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Textiles, Govt of India, graced the commencement ceremony of Bharat Ratnam, India’s pioneering Mega Common Facility Centre (CFC) situated in SEEPZ SEZ, Mumbai. Bharat Ratnam – Mega CFC stands as a pioneering socio-economic project, promoted by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, a project run by GJEPC, with active support by SEEPZ SEZ.

Present on the momentous occasion were Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Rajesh Kumar Mishra, IRS, Zonal Development Commissioner, SEEPZ-SEZ; Shri Vipul Bansal, IAS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India; Shri Colin Shah, Head – Working Group, Bharat Ratnam, Mega CFC; and Mr. C.P.S Chauhan, Joint Development Commissioner, SEEPZ,

Earlier, on 12^th January 2024, the Mega CFC was virtually inaugurated by the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, during his Mumbai visit.

The Bharat Ratnam – Mega CFC aims to provide support for the designing and manufacturing of gem & jewelry products. It will enhance the existing quality, productivity, skill of manpower, domestic R&D, technological advancement, and cost competitiveness. It will also include a Training Centre for imparting skill development courses and developing skilled manpower for the industry.

In his keynote address, Shri Goyal stated, “The Bharat Ratnam-Mega CFC heralds a new era of Make in India and Design in India. It has emerged as a real gem of India and is yet another shining example of public and private partnership. Completed in a remarkable 14 months, it stands as a beacon of excellence with its world-class facilities, setting a benchmark for the future of India. The highly impressive training and skilling center will train around 1600 youngsters who will join the workforce each year. All these initiatives will help create a high-quality jewelry made-in-India brand that the world will aspire to, desire, and look up to. Bharat Ratnam symbolizes the Government’s commitment to driving innovation, economic growth, and technological progress. “

Vipul Shah, Chairman, of GJEPC, said, “As we inaugurate Bharat Ratnam–Mega CFC, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Shri Piyush Goyal for spearheading this groundbreaking project. His relentless dedication and visionary leadership have been instrumental in bringing this transformative initiative to fruition. It is a game changer for our industry and it will propel us towards our goal of achieving $75 billion in exports and realising our vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.”

Shri Rajesh Kumar Mishra IRS, Zonal Development Commissioner, SEEPZ-SEZ said, “The Bharat Ratnam – Mega CFC is proud to house some world-class machines that are not available elsewhere in India. These inclusive measures, aimed at strengthening MSMEs to enhance their export capacity, supported by the training center, will leave a lasting legacy for the gem and jewelry industry. The Mega CFC model will be replicated across India. With our focus on MSME, Mga CFC will leverage technology enablers and technically skilled manpower including those specially-abled for the implementation.“

Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, “The Mega CFC with its world-class infrastructure will promote the inherent skills of the gems & jewellery manufacturing industry. MSMEs in the industry will greatly benefit from this facility. It will transform the landscape of the industry by democratizing access to cutting-edge technology. This will empower every karigar and artisan to engage in jewelry manufacturing at the highest level.“

Colin Shah, Head – Working Group, Bharat Ratnam – Mega CFC, lauded the Hon’ble Shri Piyush Goyal, for supporting this monumental project. “The distinctive feature of the Bharat Ratnam is in its groundbreaking concept of democratizing access to cutting-edge technology for small, medium, and large entrepreneurs across global and domestic jewelry manufacturing sectors. With the backing from the Commerce, Industry, and the Government of India, this 360-degree service model to engage in high-level jewelry manufacturing.”

C.P.S Chauhan, Joint Development Commissioner, SEEPZ, said, “Strategically situated near Gate 1 of Mumbai’s SEEPZ Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Bharat Ratnam spans 1.15 lakh square feet and holds carbon-neutral certification from the Indian Green Building Council. It houses a training school for eco-friendly practices, serving SEEPZ SEZ and DTA units nationwide. The center’s comprehensive ecosystem will nurture talent, facilitate trade, and promote sustainability“.

The Mega CFC, boasting a world-class infrastructure, was conceptualized in response to the gems & jewellery trade’s request in September 2021, to promote the inherent skills of the gems & jewelry manufacturing industry and transform the export sector, as well as bolster domestic manufacturing.

The Mega CFC, with its expansive 1.15 lakh square feet built-up area, encompasses a basement, ground, and six floors, providing ample space for various operations and activities. Specifically, the first three floors house advanced technologies, while the fourth floor is dedicated to training workers. Additionally, the fifth floor serves as a hub for buyer-seller meets, fostering global connections, and the sixth floor operates as a Convention Center for symposiums throughout the year, providing entrepreneurs with access to valuable knowledge and networking opportunities.

The Bharat Ratnam Centre includes a 12,000 sq ft exhibition area and a Multi-Purpose Hall for workshops and events.

It offers 24*7 Customs clearance, separate strong rooms for SEZ and DTA units, and features central air conditioning, DG backup, and rooftop solar panels for sustainability. 

Moreover, The Gem & Jewellery Skill Council of India (GJSCI) is set to host the Jewellery Occupational Skilling Hub (JOSH) at Bharat Ratnam. This initiative is designed to enhance skill development opportunities for individuals from marginalized communities and those with disabilities. Each batch of the program targets enrollment of 200 students, with 50 dedicated slots reserved exclusively for individuals with special needs.

The center aims to promote innovation and holistic growth in the gems and jewelry sector. It is committed to serving not only the domestic market but also aims to meet the demands of the global export market, thereby contributing to the growth and competitiveness of the economy on a broader scale.

The mission of the Mega CFC is multifaceted, aiming to enhance various aspects of production and innovation. Primarily, it seeks to improve both quality and speed, while simultaneously reducing costs and minimizing wastage throughout the manufacturing process.

Bharat Ratnam – Mega CFC offers a comprehensive range of cutting-edge technical services to meet diverse needs. These services include CAD and CAD rendering, 3D printing in metal, ceramic, resin, and wax, as well as casting in gold, platinum, and silver.

Additionally, the center provides a gamut of facilities including CNC machining, refining of precious metals, mass finishing, LGD testing, hallmarking, color laser engraving, micron plating, and rhodium plating services, along with enamel coating and LAB testing including XRF. Moreover, the center will offer photography and video services, along with training and skilling programs to equip individuals with essential technical expertise.

This comprehensive suite of offerings forms a dynamic “tech bazaar,” where businesses can explore and leverage state-of-the-art tools and solutions to enhance their operations and products. Moreover, Bharat Ratnam envisions hosting symposiums, harnessing the potential for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and networking among industry experts, researchers, and stakeholders. Together, these elements constitute a vibrant ecosystem aimed at driving progress, competitiveness, and sustainable growth in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and industry.

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MUMBAI: The Gems & jewelry industry belongs to Mumbai as the city accounts for 72% of the annual USD 37 bn of exports, proclaimed Dr. Devendra Fadnavis, Hon. Dy. Chief Minister of Maharashtra, while inaugurating the largest-ever IIJS Signature & IGJME 2024 twin Exhibitions organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO Goregaon.

For the first time, the New Year’s first top-of-the-line design-centric jewelry trade show IIJS Signature (India International Jewellery Show Signature) along with the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) is being held at two venues in Mumbai: Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO, Goregaon (5-8 January)and JIO World Convention Centre, BKC (4-7 January).

Dr. Devendra Fadnavis was accompanied by Shri Uday Samant, Hon. Minister of Industries, Govt. of Maharashtra at the inauguration ceremony in the presence of Ms. Reshma Lakhani, Director General, DGEP; Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, De Beers; Shri Sunil Nayak, CEO, Reliance Jewels; Mr. Vipul Shah  Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Nirav Bhansali (Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC); Shri Sabyasachi Ray (ED, GJEPC), along with the doyens of international & Indian diamond, gem & jewelry sector.

While speaking at the IIJS Signature, Dr. Fadnavis said, “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has set a target of USD 75 bn for gem & jewelry exports by 2030. This will be possible with the pivotal role played by the apex body GJEPC, which has been instrumental in making India one of the biggest international players in the global gems & jewelry industry. Maharashtra Government has worked closely with GJEPC to complete the new Common Facility Centre (CFC) at SEEPZ in just 17 months and this will allow gem & jewelry exporters especially MSMEs to have a hassle-free shipment, and paperwork and facilitate ease of doing business. Maharashtra Government and GJEPC have collaborated for the new India Gems & Jewellery Park at Navi Mumbai and this initiative will also help achieve the export target. Jewellery Park will create a new ecosystem in the gems & jewelry industry wherein Maharashtra will preserve its status as an ace exporter and set new records in gem & jewelry exports. Indian jewelry has been part of global trade for a time memorial not just economically but also as an emotional investment. As India prospers and the economy and industry expand, Maharashtra will continue to make new investments. Maharashtra Govt. is working tirelessly to help gem & jewelry entrepreneurs in key parameters such as ease of doing business and cost of doing business. As Maharashtra targets to become a USD 1 trillion economy, we shall continue to collaborate with GJEPC to create unique institutions such as the Bharat Diamond Bourse, which symbolizes a unique ecosystem. And whenever GJEPC wishes to create any new ecosystem, the natural and first choice has to be Maharashtra.”  

Maharashtra’s Industries Minister Uday Samant urges GJEPC to develop the indigenous gem & jewelry industry in rural India.

While thanking Dr. Devendra Fadnavis for his support and vision, Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “Now, with the Jewellery Park coming up in Navi Mumbai with the support of Maharashtra Government, our industry is getting ready to bring in more investments from abroad. The Jewellery Park brings with it several government-backed advantages. It’s a one-stop shop with the Single Window Clearance for government approvals under the Maitri Policy, making processes smoother and faster. Additionally, the State Government has offered relief in power tariffs and electricity charges, among other benefits. These initiatives significantly ease the path for businesses, ensuring efficiency and reducing operational costs, ultimately fostering a thriving environment within the park.“

Talking about the mega CFC in SEEPZ, Mumbai, Shri Shah said, “GJEPC, with the support of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has set up a Mega CFC at SEEPZ in Mumbai, which will be launched soon. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance the manufacturing capacity of the industry, foster technological advancements, and provide comprehensive skill development opportunities.“

Shah said, “The Indian gem & jewelry industry shares our beloved Prime Minister’s dream of becoming a US dollar 5 trillion economy by 2030 and be a first world nation by 2047. To take part in Sankalp to be Viksit Bharat, our goal is to reach USD 75 billion in exports by the year 2030 and USD 100 billion by 2047. Maharashtra is already a big player in the Indian gem and I am sure that Maharashtra will continue to be leading exporters from the country as we set higher goals.“

Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive VP, of De Beers, said, “As seen here at IIJS Signature, India truly inspires Indian entrepreneurship, and their drive and passion are infectious. As India progresses towards becoming the largest economy in the world, massive infrastructure investment is changing the face of the country rapidly and supporting economic development, nurturing businesses, and enhancing people’s lives.

India’s sustainable growth provides an optimum environment for business and facilitates innovation to shine. India’s fast-growing global stature is the heartbeat of the new global economy. New exciting opportunities are emerging with industrialization, urbanization, and consumption. The world is eyeing India’s affluent middle-class segment of 30 mn households as potential customers.  This will lead to increased spending on fashion jewelry. The gem & jewelry industry in India is also maturing.

The diverse & distinct worlds of natural diamonds and Lab lab-grown diamonds (LGDs) have started to diverge. Natural diamond is a unique miracle rare and breath-taking beauty. They symbolise precious enduring love ties across generations, the deepest human emotions, and the most profound connections humans could have – real diamonds are the most desired cherished, and richly symbolic objects in the world. LGDs do not have the qualities or symbolism of natural real diamonds. G7 sanctions are a major concern to everyone in global trade and industry has to speak as one voice collectively and collaboratively. The diamond industry is cyclical and the industry should be optimistic for the next wave.”

The 16th edition of GJEPC’s IIJS Signature will witness 30,000+ visitors (including international buyers) from 800 Indian cities and 60 countries. The show boasts 1,500+ exhibitors occupying 3,000+ stalls across a sprawling 1.25 lakh sq. mt. of exhibition area.

Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, requested Dr. Devendra Fadnavis to consider GJEPC’s plea for land for building residences for workers near the India Jewellery Park and first of its kind Gem & Jewellery University in the country.

“The IIJS Signature show alone is set to enable a staggering Rs. 35,000 crore worth of business. When considering the collective impact of all three IIJS shows, the total business generated will amount to an impressive Rs. 1.25 lakh crore. This establishes the IIJS as a truly unparalleled platform within the global gems and jewelry industry“, added Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, and GJEPC.

GJEPC has successfully enlisted the IIJS Signature 2024 Exhibition under the “Procurement and Marketing Support” scheme of the Ministry of MSME. The scheme provides financial assistance to micro and small enterprises for participating in domestic and international trade fairs and exhibitions. As a result, the eligible exhibitors can now avail themselves of a grant of ₹1.50 lakh each, which will help them cover costs and enhance their visibility and competitiveness in the global market.

Additionally, GJEPC has introduced a dedicated section for luxury connoisseurs and couture jewelry buyers called “The Select CLUB” at IIJS Signature 2024 in the Jio World Convention Centre. This exclusive section allows Couture jewelry manufacturers to showcase their extensive collection of high-end, exclusive jewelry designs to a curated audience.

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The show, which is the 16th edition of GJEPC’s IIJS Signature, is the first top-of-the-line design-centric jewelry trade show along with the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) being held at two venues in Mumbai: JIO World Convention Centre, BKC (4-7 January) & Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO, Goregaon (5-8 January). This expansion aims to offer exhibitors and visitors more space, fostering a relaxed environment conducive to productive business interactions.

The India International Jewellery Show 2024 also introduced “The Select CLUB” exclusively for Couture Jewellery manufacturers at IIJS Signature 2024. The Select CLUB aims to bring forth a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary designs that will resonate with the discerning taste of patrons at the luxurious JWCC venue. The Select CLUB at IIJS Signature 2024 is poised to empower Couture jewelry manufacturers, providing a platform to showcase their diverse array of exclusive high-end jewelry designs to our discerning audience.

The India International Jewellery Show 2024 is a showcase of the latest trends and innovations in the industry, as well as a forum for knowledge exchange. Innov8 Talks, seminars designed to inspire and educate, and networking evenings foster connections that go beyond business transactions.

The show has several salient features that define it, including dual venues- Jio World Convention Centre and Bombay Exhibition Centre, 5 Exhibition Halls offering a comprehensive display of the finest in the industry, “The Select CLUB”- a dedicated section for luxury connoisseurs and couture jewelry buyers, Prime Plus Lounge for Prime Plus Exhibitors and Visitors at Both venues, Seamless Visitor Pre-Registration & Digital Entry Badge for ease of access, Complimentary Registration for International Visitors to foster global participation, IIJS APP providing comprehensive show details at your fingertips, 3D Interactive Floor Plan ensuring effortless navigation within the venue, and Shuttle Bus Services connecting hotels and airports to the event location.

The product sections at JWCC include Diamond, Gemstone, and other studded jewelry, Gold and Gold CZ studded jewelry, Laboratories, and Education (for Loose), and International companies. The exclusive sections include THE SELECT CLUB: Exclusive High-End Couture Jewellery, Loose Stones (Diamonds), and Lab-grown Diamonds (Loose & Jewellery).

The product sections at BEC include Diamond, Gemstone, and other studded jewelry, Gold and Gold CZ studded jewelry, Laboratories, and education (for Jewellery), and International companies. The exclusive sections include Silver Jewellery, Artefacts and gifting Items, and Loose stone (Colour gemstone).

The concurrent show, IGJME 2024, which is being held at Hall 5 at BEC, showcases Machinery, Technology, and allied products.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), set up by the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India (GoI) in 1966, is the apex body of the gems & jewelry industry and today has around 9,600 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 centers for the industry. It thus has a wide reach and can 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.

In his speech, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, India can become the global epicenter of the gem & jewelry industry with a holistic ecosystem encompassing all diverse constituents and elements. He also emphasized making India the design destination of the world for fashion and jewelry, and the potential for India to become the world’s largest gem jeweler, proficient lab-grown diamond maker, impeccable design center, and technologically advanced machinery manufacturer all under one platform.

The India International Jewellery Show 2024 is a testament to the growth and potential of the Indian gem & jewelry industry, and with the introduction of “The Select CLUB” and other salient features, it is poised to become a coveted and preferred destination for luxury connoisseurs and couture jewelry buyers from around the world.

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