At the 38th annual awards function, hosted by Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) on October 11, 2011 at Surat, Gujarat chief minister, Narendra Modi lauded Surat-based diamond industry for its contribution as a global manufacturing centre for diamonds.
"With special regards to the gem and jewellery industry, Surat, in particular is the leading manufacturing centre for one of the largest segments of this industry – diamonds. The state pledges its support to the betterment of this industry," said Modi addressing the gathering. The awards were in recognition of the excellence and meritorious performances of the exporters, brands and companies alike.
"With total export figures of around US $ 43 billion we are furthering the cause of making India the global leader in the gem and jewellery sector and creating brand India. The industry is growing rapidly after recession and provides employment to more than five lakh people in Surat and 1.3 million people in Gujarat," said Rajiv Jain, chairman, GJEPC.