Chirag Paswan, Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, inaugurated the 42nd edition of IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), NESCO, Goregaon — highlighting the Indian gem and jewellery sector's role in strengthening Brand India on the global stage.

Joining him as Guests of Honour were Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group; K.P. Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman, Malabar Group; and Lamon Rutten, Managing Director & CEO, India Gold Metaverse Pvt. Ltd. Representing GJEPC were Kirit Bhansali, Chairman; Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director.

Addressing the gathering, Chirag Paswan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, said, “The participation of delegates from nearly 80 countries at IIJS Bharat Premiere reflects the growing global confidence in India’s gems and jewellery industry. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government is committed to introducing reforms that strengthen ease of doing business, remove bottlenecks and create new opportunities for growth. As India moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the jewellery sector will play a vital role. I urge the industry to uphold the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship so that ‘Made in India’ continues to earn the trust of consumers worldwide and strengthens Brand India’s global reputation.”

Opening the ceremony, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said India has moved beyond being the world's manufacturing hub to becoming a global leader in gems and jewellery. Recent Free Trade Agreements, India's chairmanship of the Kimberley Process this year, Indian representation at the highest levels of global diamond bodies — including the presidency of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses and the vice presidency of the World Diamond Council — and an expanding global retail presence all stand as evidence of India's rising influence. Bhansali reiterated GJEPC's vision of achieving US$100 billion in gem and jewellery exports by 2047, supported by world-class infrastructure, policy reforms and skill development.

Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group, noted, “India is far more than a market for De Beers. It is a trusted partner, a source of inspiration and increasingly a co-author of the next chapter for natural diamonds. The scale and energy of IIJS Bharat Premiere demonstrate the confidence of this industry. Despite global challenges, India continues to be the fastest-growing natural diamond market, and De Beers remains committed to supporting its long-term success through collaboration, skills development and consumer demand.”

K. P. Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman, Malabar Group, added, “This is the moment for Indian jewellery. We have evolved from manufacturing for international brands to building Indian brands that are respected across the world. Platforms like IIJS Bharat Premiere connect our manufacturers with global buyers while showcasing India’s strengths in quality, innovation, sustainability and design. By strengthening trust, investing in branding and working together, we can take the industry to its next US$100 billion milestone.”

Highlighting technology’s growing role in jewellery retail, Lamon Rutten, Managing Director & CEO, India Gold Metaverse Pvt. Ltd., said, “Technology is no longer just improving the way jewellers operate; it is transforming their entire business. By connecting retailers through digital ecosystems, jewellers can expand inventory, reach customers nationwide and unlock new financial opportunities without increasing working capital. The je
weller of the future will remain a trusted craftsman and advisor while becoming a national retailer, a financial gateway and a creator of wealth for the community.”

The show also features The Select Club, a curated showcase of India's finest couture jewellery; 20 Under 40, recognising emerging industry leaders; JewelStart Demo Day, spotlighting jewellery-tech startups; and Innov8 Talks, bringing together global experts to discuss the future of diamonds, AI, technology, precious metals and the evolving gem and jewellery business.

Running concurrently at the Bombay Exhibition Centre from 6 to 10 August, the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) has established itself as the industry's premier platform for advanced manufacturing technology.

Courtesy: AOJ DESK NEWS