A tribute to a visionary: Ex CM Vijay Rupani's boost to the gems and jewellery industry
on 12 June 2025, the nation was struck by a devastating tragedy when Air India Flight Al 171, a Bocing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad at 13:38 IST. The crash claimed hundreds of lives, leaving families shattered and the country in deep grief.
Among those lost was one of Gujarat's greatest treasures -former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. His sudden passing marked not just the loss of a leader, but of a visionary whose presence and guidance will be deeply missed across the nation.
WHO WAS THIS LEGENDARY LEADER?
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Vijay Rupani, Gujarat's 16th Chief Minister from 2016 to 2021, will always be remembered as a leader who combined humility with vision. Sott-spoken yet determined, he worked tirelessly to strengthen Gujarat's identity as a hub of progress and opportunity. From driving investments and infrastructure to focusing on education and healthcare, his leadership touched people in meaningful ways. Business-friendly policies under his watch encouraged growth and innovation, making Gujarat a magnet for entrepreneurs. Yet, beyond statistics and policies, Rupani's legacy vlies in how he carried people along with him, always approachable and grounded.
Among the many sectors that flourished during his time, it was the gems and jewellery industry that shone brightest, reflecting his commitment to Gujarat's global stature.
HOW DID HE SHAPE THE GEMS AND JEWELLERY INDUSTRY?
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Vijay Rupani's leadership will forever be remembered for the foresight and conviction he brought to Gujarat's gems and jewellery industry's growth story. He recognized early on that this sector, which employs millions and fuels India's export engine, needed world-class infrastructure and global access to truly shine.
It was this belief that led to his bramchild the Surat Gems and Jewellery Park Rupani described it with pride as "a world-class centre for manufacturing marketing and exports," underscoring his ambition to create a hub that would place Gujarat at the very heart of the international jewellery trade. For the industry, this was not just infrastructure but a statement of confidence from the highest office in the state.
His conviction was equally clear in his words at industry gatherings. Speaking at a GJEPC forum, Rupani noted, "The gem and jewellery industry showed its resilience despite the pandemic and enabled exports to quickly bounce back to pre-Covid levels. I am sure the sector will play a significant role in helping achieve US$400 billion of merchandise exports target, the goal set by our Hon'ble Prime Minister Shree Narendra Modi for the year 2021-22." His message reassured stakeholders that their contribution was not only valued but critical to India's economic mission.
Rupani's presence at GJEPC events was deeply cherished. Industry leaders recall how he engaged sincerely, listening with patience and offering "valuable insights, encouragement, and a deep understanding of our challenges and aspirations. "The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), in its tribute, remembered him as "a staunch advocate" whose gracious support left a lasting impression on everyone associated with the trade.
His efforts also extended to expanding global opportunities. Under his leadership, Gujarat signed an MoU with Amazon to boost e-commerce exports. ensuring MSME clusters particularly gems and jewellery could tap into international markets. "Through this this partnership with with Amazon, we aim to empower lakhs of MSMEs in Gujarat to embrace e-commerce and boost exports from the state. Gujarat's vibrant gems and jewellery, apparel and textiles and handicraft sectors will greatly benefit from this agreement," he said, reflecting his commitment to making local craftsmanship globally competitive.
Rupani's presence at GJEPC events was deeply cherished. Industry leaders recall how he engaged sincerely, listening with patience and offering. "valuable insights, encouragement, and a deep understanding of our challenges and aspirations." The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), in its tribute, remembered him as a stanch advocate whose gracious support left a lasting impression on everyone associated with the trade.
His efforts also extended to expanding global opportunities. Under his leadership. Gujarat signed an MoU with Amazon to boost e-commerce exports, ensuring MSME clusters particularly gems and jewellery could tap into international markets. "Through this partnership with Amazon, we aim to empower lakhs of MSMEs in Gujarat to embrace e-commerce and boost exports from the state. Gujarat's vibrant gems and jewellery, apparel and textiles and handicraft sectors will greatly benefit from this agreement," he said, reflecting his commitment to making local craftsmanship globally. competitive.
Vijay Rupani firmly believed that "with a well-defined industrial eco-system in Gujarat, the state will also play key role in the overall development of the country in future.
For the gems and jewellery industry, his legacy remains a shining one rooted in conviction, Vision, and the faith that Gujarat's sparkle can light up the world.
HIS EVERGREEN LEGACY
Vijay Rupani's decisions did more than provide immediate support they laid the groundwork for long-term transformation. of the gems and jewellery sector. By prioritizing infrastructure. Image Courtesy: glepc.org encouraging global trade linkages, and fostering digital integration, he helped reshape the industry's trajectory toward greater competitiveness and resilience His policies empowered artisans, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs to see themselves as global players rather than local manufacturers. The respect he commanded within the sector came not just from his position, but from his sincerity and understanding of its aspirations. As the gems and jewellery community looks ahead, his legacy serves as both inspiration and responsibility to carry forward the sparkle of Gujarat with the same conviction and dignity that defined his leadership.
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