loader image
Connect with us

ShowBuzz

IBJA Leadership Conclave 2025: Meaningful dialogue, innovative thinking, and collaborative strategy

Published

on

749 views

The Indian Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) inaugurated the IBJA Leadership Conclave 2025 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), bringing together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and visionaries from across the country. The event is aimed at shaping the future of India’s bullion and jewellery industry through meaningful dialogue, innovative thinking, and collaborative strategy.

The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, President – Jewellery Division, IBJA and President – JAB; Malleswara Rao, State President – Andhra Pradesh, IBJA and Convenor of the Conclave; Chandrasreenivas Rao, State President – Telangana, IBJA; P.V. Jose, State President – Kerala, IBJA; Sumesh Wadhera, State President Karnataka –IBJA, Ankit Vaidya, State President – Madhya Pradesh, IBJA; and Sreekanth Urs, CEO – GES India Inc.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta inspired the audience with a motivational message: “Followers are temporary, leaders are permanent. So, be a leader!” Drawing from his own journey, Dr. Chetan Mehta stressed the importance of humility, consistent hard work, and the adoption of technology and innovation as essential traits for long-term success in the jewellery business.

The conclave featured several insightful sessions, acting as a knowledge booster for industry professionals. One of the most compelling sessions was Next Gen Jewellery: Provenance, Precision and Personalization with AI & Blockchain.

In a discussion between Kamlesh Nagware, Founder – Global Tokenization Forum, and Rahul Desai, MD & CEO, IIG, the focus was on rising consumer demand for transparency in ethical sourcing and authenticity—especially in diamonds and precious metals. The speakers emphasized that AI and Blockchain are no longer optional but essential tools for the future of jewellery.

Another key session addressed the Necessity of Hedging in Bullion, featuring Jigar Pandit, SVP & Business Head – Commodity, Mirae Asset Sharekhan, in conversation with Sumesh Wadhera, MD – AOJ Media.

Jigar Pandit highlighted the importance of hedging in mitigating risks due to price fluctuations. He advised that jewellers should hedge only their actual exposure rather than speculate on market movements. He also emphasized the effectiveness of Gold Metal Loans (GMLs) in managing raw material procurement while minimizing price risk. He pointed out the urgent need to educate local jewellers in India on this topic.

The session on Retail Sales and Merchandise, led by Rajiv Pandey, HOD – Jewellery Design, IIG South, outlined critical strategies for enhancing retail performance. He spoke on the importance of strategic planning, upselling and cross-selling, gemstone certification, effective inventory management, and structured staff training as key components for maximizing sales and customer experience.

Silver in Focus – Comprehensive look at silver trajectory by Ajay Kedia, Founder and Director -Kedia Capital Service stressed that silver is the most mispriced asset in the monetary system. Silver is not just a commodity -it is a currency hedge, a strategic metal and an early signal of systemic fragility. Kedia took the audience through the reasons for silver’s surge which include industrial demand including clean energy, jewellery consumers moving to silver. And, the buzz that Russian central bank considering silver as a reserve. He was bullish on silver, predicting that silver could touch USD 70 in the short term.

At the recent industry session titled Legacy to Leadership: How Traditional Jewellers Can Rule the New Era, celebrated motivational speaker and business coach Dr. Ujjwal Patni delivered a power-packed address that left the audience inspired and energized. With his signature blend of sharp insights and relatable delivery, Dr. Patni spoke directly to jewellers navigating the evolving business landscape—urging them to rethink tradition and embrace transformation.

The session highlighted a central message: complacency has no place in the pursuit of excellence. In a fast-changing market driven by modern consumer expectations and digital disruption, Dr. Patni stressed that only those who maintain an unrelenting hunger for growth will thrive.

He emphasized that clarity, structure, and vision are non-negotiables for success in the current era. Traditional jewellery businesses, while rich in legacy, must now complement their heritage with well-defined systems, robust processes, focused strategies, and a written vision to ensure sustainability and scalability.

Dr. Patni also revealed what he called the “secret sauce” for business success—a set of practical strategies tailored for jewellery entrepreneurs:

  • Owner Growth Hour Strategy: A dedicated time daily for business owners to invest in learning, reflection, and high-level decision-making.
  • Market Analysis Strategy: The importance of tracking industry trends, competitor movements, and evolving consumer behavior to stay ahead.
  • USP Strategy: Identifying and communicating a clear Unique Selling Proposition to differentiate from the competition.
  • Cartier Strategy: Drawing inspiration from global luxury brands to elevate perception, customer experience, and brand value.

The session served as a wake-up call for jewellers holding on to legacy practices. With practical takeaways and strategic clarity, Dr. Patni redefined what it means to be a leader in today’s jewellery business: a visionary who honours tradition while embracing innovation.

CybercrimeAdv Pankaj Bafna underscored the fact that increased usage of mobile telephony and social media was driving the cybercrime. An accused in cybercrime faces stiff fines and imprisonment.

Suspicious transactions or deposits by unknown individuals can lead to account freezes and possible raids by authorities. Businesses must comply with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and related regulations. Key measures include obtaining KYC details, keeping accurate transaction records, and enforcing strict internal controls. Non-compliance poses legal and reputational risks.

Astro GemologyDr Prashanth Srinivasa Murthy, Faculty -IIG South presentation unveiled the ancient wisdom of Astro Gemology,  a traditional practice in India that combines astrology and gemology—the study and use of gemstones—to influence and enhance an individual’s life based on their astrological birth chart.

Rooted deeply in Vedic astrology, astro gemology is based on the belief that certain gemstones, when worn according to one’s planetary positions, can attract positive energies and counteract negative planetary influences.

Nirmal Bang View on Gold By Kunal Shah, Head of Commodities Research, Nirmal Bang stated that the drivers of gold prices were ‘love demand’ -the love for gold as an adornment and ‘fear demand’ – the fear of an uncertain world and future.

Kunal Shah unraveled the complexities of a multipolar world marked by soaring U.S. debt, increasing central bank gold purchases, and the growing influence of Asian economies. He projected that gold prices are unlikely to surge dramatically in the near term, instead expecting them to consolidate and potentially dip.

Overall, the IBJA Leadership Conclave 2025 served as a dynamic platform for industry innovation, strategic foresight, and leadership development. With participation from various state leaders and industry experts, the conclave set the stage for collaborative growth and transformation in India’s jewellery and bullion sector.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

ShowBuzz

IIJS Premiere 2025 ends on a successful note; transforms GJ sector into a thriving, high-energy marketplace

Estimated that business worth between Rs. 70,000 crore -Rs. 90,000 crore was transacted during the six-day show

Published

on

2,042 views

IIJS Premiere 2025 ended on a successful note, pumping positivity and enthusiasm into the GJ  sector.A three-month sales drought was swept away by a flood of orders at IIJS Premiere 2025. In just two to three days, exhibitors turned a sluggish, no-buying season into a thriving, high-energy marketplace. It is estimated that business worth between Rs. 70,000 crore and Rs. 90,000 crore was transacted during the six-day show, beating its previous record by over 40% to 50%.

A massive buyer of 55,000 unique visitor footfalls, including 2,500 international buyers, led to record-breaking sales. Exhibitors reported full-house bookings across categories, with jewellery flying off the shelves from Day 1. The energy was electric, the demand unstoppable — proving once again that IIJS Premiere is where the industry comes to buy, not just browse.

The 41st edition of the India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) Premiere 2025 got off to a spectacular start on 30th July at the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC), Mumbai. Organised by GJEPC, the event was graced by Chief Guest Rahul Narwekar, Hon’ble Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, along with Guests of Honour  Pavel Marinychev, CEO of Alrosa, and  Ajoy Chawla, CEO – Jewellery Division, Titan Company Ltd.  IIJS Premiere 2025 was inaugurated at Bombay Exhibition Centre – NESCO, Mumbai by Chief Guest Mangal Prabhat Lodha,  Minister for  Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Govt of Maharashtra  in the presence of Guest of Honour Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman, Malabar Group. Present  at both the inaugurations were  Kirit Bhansali, Chairman- GJEPC, Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC;  Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC; and  Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC.

The grand inauguration ceremonies brought together industry stalwarts, government dignitaries, and international partners, signalling the beginning of what promises to be one of the most impactful trade shows of the year.

Packed aisles at both the venues – JWCC and BEC – prove that IIJS Premiere is the unrivalled show of the gem and jewellery industry.The Select Club returned with 118 exhibitors and a vivid curation of high-end jewellery — where bold design, coloured gems, and global sensibilities took centre stage.

Large carat gemstones and diamonds were the heroes of many pieces, while textures metals gained prominence. Gem-setting and custom-cut gemstones were another area that many exhibitors relied on, to support the narrative of the thematic collections. Other categories that were in vogue were two- and three-finger rings, designer ear cuffs, and palm cuffs, and of course, the trending labubu (toy monster elves) accessories in diamonds and gemstones.\

Exhibitors at IIJS Premiere have made a striking statement by unveiling 24-karat gold collections, right when much of the world is leaning towards lower-karat gold. This move reaffirms two things: first, gold’s status as a trusted store of value remains unshaken; and second, our exceptional manufacturers continue to read the consumer pulse with precision. Sky Gold and Diamonds , Shringar House of Mangalsutra Ltd., Kama Jewelry, Kanakratna Exim Pvt. Ltd launched 24k collections.

Fine jewellery embellished with a spectrum of gem hues was also trending; all their three categories – bridal, 18-karat gold oxidised gold collections, and an international line – were performing very well.

Silver, now often called the new gold, was priced at ₹1.20 lakh per kilo and drew strong demand at the show. Exhibitors reported exceptional interest in silver jewellery, accessories, and festive items, with many new companies and individuals exploring silver retail ventures. They emphasised the need for greater focus on silver and increased exhibition space at the IIJS Premier Show, as the current allocation limits its potential. Participants also noted growing demand from Tier II and Tier III towns, with buyers showing more trust in silver for gifting items, utility products, and home accessories. Due to limited booth space, only a small portion of available products could be displayed.

IIJS Premiere 2025 served as a platform for India’s jewellery sector to strengthen its global presence. GJEPC highlighted how new free trade agreements with countries like the UAE, Australia, and the UK are opening up new opportunities. Despite facing some challenges, such as new tariffs from the US, the IIJS Premiere 2025 demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of India’s gem and jewellery industry. The strong domestic demand and the proactive approach to global market expansion and sustainability indicate a positive outlook for the sector’s future.

Continue Reading

ShowBuzz

GJEPC’s Jewellers for Hope marks a decade of giving with impact and star power 

Jewellers for Hope celebrated its 10th anniversary with a heartfelt evening featuring Anil Kapoor and a strong focus on compassion and community upliftment. With over ₹12 crore raised since inception, this year’s funds will support RK HIV AIDS Research and Care Centre and the Indian Army, as IIJS is renamed “IIJS Bharat

Published

on

1,986 views

The 10th edition of Jewellers for Hope, the flagship charity fundraiser by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), lit up Mumbai with compassion, commitment and a celebration of social impact. Held alongside IIJS Premiere 2025, the landmark edition brought together industry leaders, philanthropists, and dignitaries to honour a decade of meaningful giving.

Organised in partnership with De Beers Group and World Gold Council, powered by GIA, and co-partnered by HRD Antwerp, this milestone evening paid tribute to the transformative power of collective effort. Since its inception in 2014, Jewellers for Hope has contributed over ₹12 crore to 20 NGOs working across healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and social welfare.

The funds raised this year will support the RK HIV AIDS Research and Care Centre, a beacon of humanitarian healthcare in India. With over 33,000 free medical camps conducted and more than 5 crore individuals reached across the country, its impact is both expansive and deeply transformative. Backed by a dedicated team of doctors — many of whom head departments in leading hospitals across 50+ Indian cities — the organization has delivered an extraordinary range of services: distributing over 37 lakh spectacles, 3.5 lakh wheelchairs, performing nearly 1 lakh surgeries, and offering more than ₹500 crore worth of free medicines to those in need.

Their commitment to reaching the unreached is powered by a fleet of 26 advanced cardiac ambulances and 14 mobile medical vans, which travel tirelessly to the most remote and underserved regions, including villages in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and beyond — delivering not just medical aid, but also health education, preventive screenings, and hope.

A special announcement was also made about GJEPC’s recent approval to rename IIJS as IIJS Bharat — a move welcomed with pride by the industry. In honour of this national sentiment, a portion of the evening’s funds will also be contributed to the Indian Army, towards a meaningful project to be announced.

The evening’s emotional high point came with the appearance of Anil Kapoor, whose charisma and sincerity struck a chord with the audience. Known for his versatile performances and ageless appeal, Kapoor also carries a quiet legacy of giving back. Speaking about Jewellers for Hope, Anil Kapoor said, “It’s a real honour to be part of Jewellers for Hope 2025, a thoughtful initiative by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council that unites the gem and jewellery community for a greater good. 

As an actor and storyteller, I’ve been incredibly lucky to receive the love and affection of people across India. I’ve always felt that with this love comes with a responsibility to give back, to support real change, and to stand by those who are quietly making a difference.

What I truly admire about Jewellers for Hope is how it makes purpose the main star. Behind all the razzle-dazzle, there is a sincere effort to support causes like healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and social well-being.

Every act of service matters. Even the smallest effort can help spark hope in someone’s life. I’m genuinely grateful to be part of this journey and I applaud GJEPC for continuously championing those who are doing good work, often behind the scenes.

I hope this evening is a memorable one — an evening that celebrates not just beauty, but also compassion.” 

In his opening address,  Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of GJEPC, reflected on the journey: “Jewellers for Hope reflects the gem and jewellery industry’s enduring belief that business and benevolence go hand in hand. For decades, the industry has contributed not only in economic growth but in building a more inclusive and compassionate society—through education, healthcare, and disaster relief. As this initiative completes ten years, it underscores the industry’s deep sense of purpose and its ongoing commitment to social impact.”

Vivek Phansalkar, former Commissioner of Mumbai Police said, “It was a privilege to witness the spirit of service that defines the gem and jewellery industry. I commend the remarkable efforts of those in the trade who not only contribute significantly to India’s economy, but also to the greater social good. The ‘G’ in gems, I believe, also stands for generosity—and jewellery, in its truest form, brings joy. This industry has brought both generosity and joy into the lives of thousands, uplifting communities and setting a powerful example of responsible success.”

Shweta Harit, Senior Vice President, De Beers, said: “Moments like these aren’t just ceremonial—they carry real purpose. They create opportunities, they spark change. At De Beers, we’ve long believed that making a positive difference shouldn’t be treated as a side effort—it needs to be deeply woven into how we operate. It’s about fostering a culture where contributing to people and communities is simply part of what we do every day.”

Sachin Jain, Regional CEO India, World Gold Council said, “There’s something profound about coming together like this. Individually, we can all do good—but together, we can achieve something truly great. That, to me, is the spirit of this initiative. As an industry, we often speak of CSR, but it must go beyond charity or compliance. It should become a mindset—a way of thinking that shapes every decision we take. And more importantly, it should be sustained. Not just one year or ten, but year after year, as a shared responsibility.”

Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director, GIA India said, “GIA is proud to support Jewellers for Hope—an initiative that highlights the humanitarian side of our industry. It’s inspiring to see how platforms like this bring together purpose and partnership to drive meaningful impact. We commend the extraordinary work of the R.K. HIV AIDS Research and Care Centre, whose reach and compassion have touched millions of lives. Together, through shared commitment, we are building a more inclusive and hopeful future.”

Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC  said, “Jewellers for Hope is a testament to the kind of change we can bring when we align purpose with passion. It reflects the compassionate side of our industry that often works quietly behind the scenes to bring hope, dignity, and opportunity to countless lives. As we mark 10 years of this incredible journey, it’s a moment to pause and reflect—not just on the funds raised, but on the futures rebuilt. I hope this milestone encourages many more members of our trade to step forward and carry the torch of giving. Because in every life we touch, we also uplift our own.”

The finale saw a heartfelt tribute to Mr. M.P. Ahammed, Chairman of Malabar Group, whose legacy of ethical business and philanthropy was celebrated through the unique “Dinner with an Icon” auction, with all proceeds benefiting a charity of his choice.

Launched in 2014, Jewellers for Hope is the altruistic initiative of the GJEPC, aimed at mobilizing the entire gem and jewellery industry – from manufacturers and traders to miners and retailers – to raise funds for commendable NGOs in various fields, including education, health, tribal welfare, women’s empowerment, and more. The Indian gem and jewellery export industry, directly employs over 5 million people and supports millions more indirectly. This massive trade network has a long-standing culture of charity, and Jewellers for Hope exemplifies this spirit of giving.

Over the years, the industry’s generous contributions to ‘Jewellers for Hope’ have left an indelible impact, having contributed crores to 20 NGOs, uplifting countless lives. In previous editions, ‘Jewellers for Hope’ has extended support to various NGOs, including Make A Wish Foundation, Swades Foundation, Friends of Tribal Society, Voluntary Action Association (run by Nobel Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi), Giants Welfare International (run by Social Activist Shaina NC), Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayta Samiti or Jaipur Foot, Army Welfare, Tribal Integrated Development and Education Trust (TIDE), Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC), GJNRF, Live Love, Laugh Foundation and MIAM, Miam Charitable Trust.

Continue Reading

ShowBuzz

Jewellers For Hope dazzled with the presence of Anil Kapoor

Jewellers for Hope charity dinner by GJEPC at Jio World Convention Centre brought the gem & jewellery industry together, with Anil Kapoor lending star power to support RK HIV & AIDS Research and Care Centre.

Published

on

1,965 views

The Jewellers for Hope charity dinner, hosted by GJEPC at the Jio World Convention Centre, brought together distinguished members of the gem and jewellery industry for a noble cause. The evening was graced by the presence of acclaimed actor and film producer Mr. Anil Kapoor adding star power to the heartfelt event. Proceeds from the dinner will be directed towards the RK HIV & AIDS Research and Care Centre. The event radiated warmth and generosity, with moments that beautifully reflected the spirited energy of the guests.

Anil Kapoor, Indian Actor and Film Producer dazzled on the stage of Jewellers for Hope, a GJEPC initiative dedicated to a noble cause. A spirited showman with a charming demeanour stole the spotlight from the time he walked into the room. The crowd sang and danced with him by their side and enjoyed the evening thoroughly.

Anil Kapoor , speaking at Jewellers for Hope, said “It’s a real honour to be part of Jewellers for Hope 2025, a thoughtful initiative by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council that unites the gem and jewellery community for a greater good. This year. I’m glad to be here representing R.K. HIV AIDS Research And Care Centre.

Every act of service matters. Even the smallest effort can help spark hope in someone’s life. I’m genuinely grateful to be part of this journey and I applaud GJEPC for continuously championing those who are doing good work, often behind the scenes.I hope this evening is a memorable one an evening that celebrates not just beauty, but also compassion.”

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

CONTACT US

We would like to hear from you...

GET WHATSAPP NEWS ALERTS

error:
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x