Enough export orders but not enough manpower, say jewellery manufacturers

At present, an official government order allows for only 25 per cent of employees to attend work

The gems and jewellery industry, which is witnessing an increase in export orders, is facing challenging times due to lack of skilled manpower as workers are either unable to come back due to transportation restrictions or reluctant to leave their families in times of crisis, the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) said on Wednesday.

"Even though the times are tough, demand for jewellery exports is seeing an upsurge, and that is a huge positive. Similar to every other sector in India, the jewellery industry, too, saw a massive exodus of its workforce amid the nationwide lockdown.

"Exporters need to reassure