Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Govt. of Maharashtra, inaugurated the 17th edition India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) Signature organised by India�s apex trade body, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

The inauguration ceremony was also graced by the presence of several esteemed dignitaries, including Guest of Honour Saurabh Gadgil, Managing Director and CEO, PNG Jewellers Ltd.; Umesh Pandey, Thai Trade Representative; Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC.

Mangal Prabhat Lodha, said, �Maharashtra offers the best business and professional atmosphere. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, our government is committed to supporting industries like yours. Together, we can realize the dreams of Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat. GJEPC and the Maharashtra Govt. must collaborate on skill development and certifications to strengthen the future workforce and elevate the diamond and jewellery sector to greater heights,�

Umesh Pandey, Thai Trade Representative, lauded India�s position in the global jewellery market: �Thailand and India share deep roots in the gemstone and jewellery industry. I�m honoured to represent my nation, extending an open invitation for Indian businesses to invest and flourish in Thailand.�

Saurabh Gadgil, MD & CEO, PNG Jewellers, said, "From being the epitome of networking to showcasing talent from across the globe, IIJS represents our journey towards becoming the world's largest jewellery show. With support from the government and a move towards greater organisation, we're poised to hit $100 billion domestic market size by next year.�

Taking about GJEPC�s international initiatives, Vipul Shah Chairman GJEPC said, �GJEPC will be organizing its inaugural exhibition in Saudi Arabia, set to take place in the vibrant city of Jeddah from 11th to 13th September 2025. This landmark event aims to serve as a gateway for strengthening bilateral trade between India and the GCC region, unlocking unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and growth."

Vipul Shah, announced two landmark initiatives during the inauguration. Highlighting India�s leadership as the largest manufacturer of diamonds, he revealed that GJEPC has invested ?150 crores in the global generic promotion of diamonds till date. To strengthen this effort, GJEPC has partnered with De Beers for promotion of diamonds through Retail Alliance in India, with a formal MoU to be signed at a special event on January 7th. Additionally, in a move to boost gem and jewellery exports via e-commerce, GJEPC will be signing an MoU with DHL Express, the global leader in international express services, to facilitate the efficient shipping of India-crafted jewellery worldwide.

Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, �As the first show of the calendar year, IIJS Signature holds great importance for our industry. It sets the tone, reflects the market sentiment, and provides valuable insights into what we can expect in the months ahead.�

Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC said, "The IIJS journey is a testament to the collective vision, innovation, and excellence of the Indian gem and jewellery industry. As we proudly celebrate being the world�s second-largest gem and jewellery show, IIJS is more than just an event�it�s a platform for creativity, sustainability, and unity. With groundbreaking initiatives, a dual-venue format, and a commitment to redefining world-class standards, IIJS continues to elevate our industry on the global stage, paving the way for an even brighter future."

The IIJS edition deliver an unparalleled experience with its innovative features and thoughtful initiatives.

Courtesy: AOJ Desk News