With the inauguration of CIBJO Lake, Hari Krishna Group and its retail arm Kisna Diamond & Gold Jewellery, demonstrate how environmental initiatives led by the industry can deliver measurable community impact while reinforcing long-term sustainability commitments.
Amreli: On the occasion of World Water Day 2026, Dholakia Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Hari Krishna Group, marked a significant environmental milestone with the inauguration of the CIBJO (Confédération Internationale de la Bijouterie, Joaillerie, Orfèvrerie des Diamants, Perles et Pierres) Lake.
The event brought together global industry leaders, public representatives, and members of the Dholakia family and the community, reflecting a shared commitment to water conservation, biodiversity, and building a sustainable future.
The CIBJO Lake was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri, President of CIBJO, as a tribute to the 100-year milestone of CIBJO – The World Jewellery Confederation. The inauguration was also held in the presence of Kaushikbhai Kantibhai Vekariya, Minister of State, Government of Gujarat; Bharatbhai Sutariya, Member of Parliament, Amreli; Janakbhai Talaviya, MLA, Lathi; J.V. Kakadiya, MLA, Dhari; and Hirabhai Solanki, MLA, Rajula.
Founded in 1926, the CIBJO has played a key role in promoting ethical practices, sustainability, and global cooperation across the jewellery supply chain. Developed in 2023 in Luvariya village as part of the Gagadiya river rejuvenation initiative, the lake strengthens water security in Gujarat’s drought-prone Saurashtra region. Spread across 15 acres with a storage capacity of 156 million litres (15.6 crore litres), it supports 5 villages, benefiting around 12,000 farmers. Improved water availability has enabled multi-cropping and increased groundwater levels, transforming the local ecosystem.
The occasion featured inspiring addresses by global leaders. Cavalieri reflected on the deeper significance of the initiative: “Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ‘I have a dream.’ In the same way, Savjibhai Dholakia had a dream — and today, we see that dream turning into reality. What was once barren land has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem of water, greenery, wildlife, and community life.” He further added: “What the Dholakia Foundation has achieved here is truly remarkable. This work stands as proof that industry can lead with conscience — that growth and responsibility can coexist.”
Dholakia also addressed the gathering, emphasising the importance of giving back to nature and building long-term environmental initiatives for future generations. He also added that in Kutch, across 13 talukas, lake development and water conservation initiatives are being undertaken through a collaborative effort between the villagers and the Foundation. Where farmers earlier relied on a single crop, improved water availability and rainfall have now enabled up to three cropping cycles annually.
The inauguration was attended by an esteemed international delegation, including Gaetano Cavalieri, President, CIBJO, and Francesca Manfredi, Head of Sustainable Innovation – Watches & Jewellery, Kering Group, along with multiple ambassadors and high commissioners representing countries including Seychelles, Botswana, Mongolia, Romania, Maldives, Thailand, Mali, Cambodia, Chad, Benin, Niger, Togo, and Cameroon.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks to all dignitaries and participants. The inauguration of the CIBJO Lake marks a meaningful step towards environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability. More than an infrastructure project, it stands as a symbol of collective action, community impact, and respect for nature, demonstrating that growth and responsibility can go hand in hand.
Hari Krishna Group, established in 1992, is a globally recognised diamond manufacturing company known for its ethical practices and commitment to excellence. With a 45-acre facility in Surat and over 10,000 employees, the company exports diamonds to more than 108 countries worldwide. Through Dholakia Foundation, it actively drives initiatives in water conservation, rural development, education, and community welfare, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and responsible growth.
Retail Jeweller India News
