India’s apex trade body, The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council inaugurated the 2nd edition of the India International Jewellery Show - IIJS Tritiya – in Bangalore (Karnataka) at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) from 5th to 8th April 2024. India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) is running concurrently with IIJS Tritiya Bangalore 2024 for the first time ever to showcase world-class technology in manufacturing powered by digital technology tools and techniques. 

GJEPC unveiled the "Brilliant Bharat" theme for the next six editions of the India International Jewellery Shows (IIJS). This thematic approach is aimed at rediscovering and celebrating India's traditions, cultural diversity, and innovative technology to create something truly extraordinary. It also helps to explore the magic of India's rich heritage, the beauty of Indian craftsmanship, and the warmth of the people, showcasing the convergence of these elements in the gem and jewellery sector.

IIJS Tritiya was hailed as the ‘Gateway to Global gem & jewellery Exports’ by distinguished dignitaries during the inauguration. The inauguration was graced by Dr. Selvakumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Govt. of Karnataka; Dr. B Govindan, Chairman, Bhima Jewellery; Shri Vinod Hayagriv, MD & Director, C. Krishniah Chetty Group; Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, President, Jewellers Association Bengaluru; Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Nirav Bhansali, Convener-National Exhibitions, GJEPC and Member of Committee of Administration (COA), GJEPC; and Sabyasachi Ray; ED, GJEPC.

Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC and Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, President, Jewellers Association Bengaluru signed an MoU to promote gem & jewellery exports from the State through a series of initiatives to be fronted by GJEPC including the Karnataka Jewellery Park.

Notably, this year's IIJS Tritiya proved to be bigger, ‘smarter’ and better than last year, featuring over 900 exhibitors and 1,900 stalls across 40,000 square meters. It served as a vast marketplace, providing invaluable opportunities for industry players to connect, collaborate, and thrive. It had over 15,000 pre-registered visitors from over 500 cities in India and 60 countries, underscoring the event's global significance.

Along with showcasing an extensive range of gold jewellery collections that reflect the rich heritage and craftsmanship of India's jewellery industry, a notable addition to this year's exhibition was the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME), showcasing the latest innovations and technologies in machinery from both national and international realms.

Dr. Selvakumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Govt. of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka’s gem & jewellery industry has set a new benchmark in entrepreneurship, excellence and innovation through technology. Karnataka’s skilled craftsmen are renowned for creating world-famous exquisite and intricate jewellery such as temple jewellery, antique jewellery and Nakash jewellery among others. IIJS Tritiya is a testament to India’s positioning as a hub for designer jewellery powered by smart technology. IIJS Tritiya reconfirms the industry’s commitment, contribution and collaborative efforts to increase gem & jewellery exports from Karnataka and south India.”

Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC said, "We are a USD 40 billion export industry today, but the scope and potential for further growth is immense, with the ever-increasing demand in the global gem and jewellery market. GJEPC is working closely with Government to secure favorable polices in the upcoming trade pacts for our sector including FTAs with GCC, Canada, UK and EU. Additionally, GJEPC has successfully pursued the government to introduce measures to facilitate ease of doing business in the e-commerce for retail exports of jewellery from the country, enabling Indian sellers to seamlessly deliver their products to global buyers.”

Dr. B Govindan, Chairman, Bhima Jewellery, said, “Investing in the jewellery industry not only creates jobs but also contributes significantly to the economy. It's essential for every citizen to recognise its potential and participate in its growth. With proper support and industry knowledge, this sector can thrive, providing employment opportunities and driving economic development."

Mr. Vinod Hayagriv, MD & Director, C. Krishniah Chetty Group, said, IIJS Tritiya will soon become the landmark show for the whole of India. The show has not only got bigger, but it's got smarter – similar to Bangalore’s reputation as a smart city. We look forward to a very smart industry in the coming decade. I think $70 billion is a very doable target and with GJEPC being there at the helm, I think we could easily achieve that much earlier than 2030.”

Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, “The Council is focused on empowering MSMEs through initiatives like Common Facility Centres, Mega CFCs, Jewellery Park in Mumbai, Gem Bourse in Jaipur alongside digital platforms for enhanced marketing and sales. These efforts not only contribute to the industry's expansion in the global market but also ensure its alignment with the principles of Viksit Bharat.”

Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, President, Jewellers Association Bengaluru said, “We pledge unwavering support from the Jewellers Association, Bangalore (JAB), to ensure the industry's continual growth and prosperity. With GJEPC’s commendable efforts and initiatives, our industry is on a path to greater organisation and success. As President of JAB, I extend our full support to GJEPC and all industry stakeholders. Thank you to everyone for joining this celebration, and here's to the success of the second edition of IIJS Tritiya.”

Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC, said, “IIJS is India's leading platform to facilitate gems and jewellery business.  Between 3 shows and 9000 booths IIJS is the gateway for Indian gems and Jewels to the world. IIJS gives opportunities to MSME companies meet customers from across the world.”

“IIJS Tritiya has also become smarter, bigger and better than last year. It serves as a vast marketplace, providing invaluable opportunities for industry players to connect, collaborate, and thrive. IIJS Tritiya platform is an opportunity for MSME manufacturers to meet global buyers to reach international markets,” said Bhansali.

“IIJS Tritiya offers various features and amenities aimed at enhancing the experience including Innov8 Talks providing insights and perspectives. Furthermore, we have introduced several initiatives to embrace digitalization and sustainability. Features such as digital badges, face recognition processes, and the IIJS App streamline operations while minimizing paper usage. Under the One Earth Initiative for IIJS shows, we have already planted 150,000 trees exceeding expectations,” added Bhansali.