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

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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.

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JB Insights

SSI 2026 Opens In Mumbai With Grand Inauguration, Landmark Launches and Strong Industry Participants

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Silver Show of India (SSI) 4th Edition Mumbai has officially commenced at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, once again cementing its reputation as a premier agent of transformation for the Indian silver jewellery and articles sector.

Day 1 of the exhibition came alive with an unmatched energy, featuring exciting launches, innovative collections, and high-value business interactions.

The prestigious event was inaugurated by Shri Ramdas Athawale (Hon’ble Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India) and Shri Rahul Narwekar (Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly). The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Prithviraj Kothari (National President – IBJA, President – JAB, and Chairman – SSI Exhibition Committee) alongside Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta (President – Jewellery Division, IBJA) and other esteemed leaders of the jewellery fraternity.

The opening ceremony drew prominent dignitaries and stalwarts from the gem and jewellery industry, including:

  • Ba Ramesh, Joint MD – Thangamayil Jewellery Ltd.
  • Dr. Saurabh Gadgil, CMD – PNG Jewellers
  • Varghese Alukkas, MD – Jos Alukkas Group
  • Kirit Bhansali, Chairman – GJEPC
  • Pramod Agrawal, Chairman – NGJCI
  • Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman – GJC
  • Mahender Kumar Tayal, Regional Chairperson – GJEPC

Addressing the gathering, Shri Rahul Narwekar said it was not just inaugurating SSI but celebration  of India’s craftsmanship, the ‘Make in India’ initiative, and the rapidly growing commercial opportunities within the silver sector.

Massive Footfall and Breathtaking Variety

Reflecting a highly positive and buoyant market sentiment, nearly 11,500 trade visitors from across the country thronged the show floor on the very first day in a serious buying mood. Conducted across two massive levels, the exhibition showcases an extraordinary range of sterling silver jewellery, bridal collections, antique lines, and cool minimalistic offerings. It also features a wide array of silver articles, including pooja articles, furniture, idols, artefacts, and a highly sought-after silver gifting segment.

The exceptional quality, variety, and innovation on display clearly demonstrated why SSI has become a revolutionary platform for promoting business networking, innovation, and growth within the segment.

Industry Insights

Varghese Alukkas, MD, Jos Alukkas said:

“The Silver Show has evolved into an important platform for the silver jewellery and lifestyle products industry. What stands out this year is the diversity of collections on display, the innovation in design, and the growing confidence among manufacturers and retailers alike. With silver gaining increasing acceptance across various customer segments, platforms like these play a crucial role in driving the industry’s growth. I congratulate the organizers for successfully creating a focused B2B ecosystem.”

Saurabh Gadgil, Chairman, PNG Jewellers said:

“The fourth edition Mumbai of SSI reflects the growing strength of the silver industry in India. The enthusiasm among retailers and buyers clearly indicates that silver is emerging as a preferred category across consumer segments. With the festive and gifting season ahead, platforms like SSI play a vital role in connecting the industry, driving business, and showcasing new trends.”

The Silver Show of India continues to serve as an invaluable B2B ecosystem, offering participants unmatched opportunities to discover new product lines, strengthen corporate relationships, and capture emerging consumer preferences.

The show floor witnessed an enthusiastic response from buyers and retailers as exhibitors unveiled innovative collections and product launches. Key highlights included:

Anmol Silver launched its Rudra Series, inspired by traditional Indian artistry and heritage craftsmanship.

Navkar Sterling Silver unveiled its Shell & Silver Collection, featuring elegant silver jewellery enhanced with mother-of-pearl, rubies, and emeralds.

Purple Jewels introduced TULIP – The Ultra Light Idols by Purple, showcasing technologically advanced 925 silver idols with exceptional detailing and finish.

Kraft Silver attracted attention with its extraordinary display of silver artefacts, including a magnificent silver cow, silver sofa, and innovative decorative creations.

Antaraa Silver showcased its exclusive range of premium silver accessories, luxury pens, and innovative lifestyle products, drawing appreciation from industry leaders and buyers alike.

Antariksh Jewellers, Chennai showcased an exquisite traditional pooja set.The collection which comprised a meticulously crafted

pooja thali, samai, chambu, bell, udarni, kamachi valak, and aarti.

MJR Silver showcased magnificent, oversized haaram. Emblazoned with the iconic MRJ logo, this masterpiece beautifully weaves together the rich tapestry of the brand’s diverse portfolio. Each intricate detail highlights their mastery of jewellery arts—from  kundan and the delicate precision of paper casting, to the modern innovation of electroforming and the soulful depth of hand nakashi work.

Ricchezza showcased Hollow Men’s RPT Jewellery comprising kadas, bracelets and neckwear.

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JewelBuzz is Asia’s First Digital Jewellery Media & India’s No.1 B2B Jewellery Magazine, published by AM Media House. Since 2016, we’ve been the trusted source for jewellery news, market trends, trade insights, exhibitions, podcasts, and brand stories, connecting jewellers, retailers, and industry professionals worldwide.

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