Gem export council seeks Rs 900 cr package to boost jewellery manufacturers

This package will be used for setting up 'Model Manufacturing Workshop' that will focus on upgradation of skill development programmes, he added, Council Chairman

The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) on Friday said it has sought a Rs 900 crore package for the sector to set up 'Model Manufacturing Workshop' to upgrade skills and implement Technology Upgradation Fund (TUF) that will help boost the industry.

"Almost 85 per cent (5,931) of our members are in the MSME category, and most of them are involved in the manufacture of handmade gold jewellery, cutting and polishing of diamonds, precious and semi-precious stones and imitation jewellery. Our industry is highly labour-intensive and export-oriented," GJEPC Chairman Colin Shah said in a statement.

He said the gems and jewellery