A key development at the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between IIGJ and IIT Madras (InCent-LGD) to launch a specialized certification programme in lab-grown diamond technologies
Udupi: The Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ), Udupi was unveiled as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, reinforcing the Government’s focus on skilling, innovation and employment generation in the gem and jewellery sector.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Kota Shrinivas Poojari, Member of Parliament; Yashpal A. Suvarna, MLA, Udupi, along with officials from the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India (GJEPC) including Kirit Bhansali, Chairman; Shaunak Parikh, Vice-Chairman; Mahender Tayal, Regional Chairman, Southern Region and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, besides industry stakeholders and students.
The new centre is positioned as a hub for talent development, artisanal excellence and industry-relevant training across jewellery design, manufacturing and emerging technologies. It expands IIGJ’s national footprint and aligns with the sector’s shift towards a more skilled, future-ready workforce.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, “IIGJ Udupi demonstrates how industry-led skilling can create opportunities for youth. With the support of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, the institute is empowering students from Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and beyond with employable skills, entrepreneurial opportunities and exposure aligned with global market needs. As demand for skilled talent grows, such institutions will play a key role in strengthening exports and driving inclusive economic growth.”
Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “The unveiling of IIGJ Udupi reflects our commitment to strengthening India’s skill ecosystem. In the past four years, IIGJ centres have trained over 7,000 students. The jewellery industry contributes nearly $28 billion in exports and supports over five million livelihoods. As the industry becomes more design-led and technology-driven, demand for skilled professionals will accelerate.”
A key development at the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between IIGJ and IIT Madras (InCent-LGD) to launch a specialized certification programme in lab-grown diamond technologies. The initiative aims to create industry-ready professionals for a fast-growing segment, supporting value-added manufacturing and strengthening India’s position in the global lab-grown diamond value chain.
Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, said, “With expanding global opportunities, strong domestic demand and a growing focus on innovation, the industry is entering a new phase of growth. Investments in skilling and education will be critical to sustaining India’s leadership.”
Aligned with the Skill India mission and initiatives such as the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, IIGJ continues to expand access to structured training for artisans and young professionals. The institute offers over 40 specialized programmes, including degrees, diplomas and postgraduate courses, supported by industry linkages and placements.
The Udupi centre is expected to play a pivotal role in enabling the next phase of sectoral growth by empowering youth, artisans and entrepreneurs to participate in India’s expanding gem and jewellery opportunity.
In 2001, the first Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellerywas set up in Mumbai for professional jewellery education. IIGJ Udupi was established by GJEPC in 2017, andalong with six other IIGJ institutes in Mumbai, New Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, Guwahati and Ratnagiri, it is dedicated to driving innovation and skill development in the sector.
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