The India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) 2010 began with a high level of positivity and growth aspirations for the Indian gem and jewellery industry. Dy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Mr. Chhagan Bhujbal inaugurated the event in the presence of dignitaries including Anil Mukim, Jt. Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India and many others from all over the world, leading lights of the Indian industry. %% Speaking at the function, Vasant Mehta, Chairman GJEPC said that the GJEPC had been constantly taking new initiatives to portray India to the world, the latest amongst these is the India International Jewellery Week (IIJW) which began prior to the IIJS and has been immensely successful in showcasing the capabilities of Indian designers and design houses. Commending the growth of the Indian gem and jewellery industry he said, the diamond industry which has the lion’s share of the Indian gem and jewellery basket today has a 70 percent share by value and 85 percent share by volume in the international market. “Entrepreneurs of this industry have believed in being at the cutting edge and have been leaders in adopting the latest technology, be it in the diamond or the jewellery arena,” Mehta added. %% The first day saw a great burst of action in the exhibition halls, and by midday one could see a bustling crowd. This is strikingly different from most other shows, which struggle through the first day with only straggling visitors. “There is definitely great energy in the Halls,” an exhibitor commented. %% Haresh Zaveri, Convener of the Exhibitions Sub-Committee, informed that a survey conducted by IMRB had revealed that business worth Rs. 3400 crore was achieved in IIJS 2009, and that “This year this figure is expected to go up to Rs. 4000 crore”. Dy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal congratulated the industry and the GJEPC as IIJS has been recognized as “Made in India” brand by the Government of India.