Maharashtra to set up jewellery and knowledge smart city: CM

Maharashtra government has decided to set up jewellery and knowledge smart city in the state to promote the growth of gems and jewellery sector.
"We plan to set up jewellery and knowledge smart city in the state to promote the growth of the gems and jewellery sector. I would request Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) to provide suitable place for the said project, which will have a dedicated zone for manufacturing and related activities," Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said today at a function organised by India Bullion and Jewellers' Association (IBJA) here.
The project will also have support activities like training institute, research centre, exhibition and convention centre, residences for employees, hostel, schools and hospitals.

Gems and Jewellery industry is second largest foreign exchange earner and engages 35-40 lakh skilled and non-skilled workforce.
"The industry has potential to generate more than 1 crore employment by 2025, if we provide better opportunity and infrastructure through the proposed smart city. It will also help us increasing our share in value addition and upgrade our workers skills," Fadnavis said.
Skill development is the focus of the state government. We are keen on taking a major step by joining the national programme of 'Make in India' and Maharashtra government's initiative of Make in Maharashtra, he added.

The Chief Minister assured the gems and jewellery industry of providing all much needed help to boost the exports.

IBJA president Mohit Kamboj said, "We believe that the unique, innovative and inspiring opportunity offered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi would go a long way in creating huge global and domestic market for gems and jewellery sector".
"Under this programme, we have decided to set up IBJA Jewellery and Knowledge park, spread over 500 acres near Mumbai," he added.
India has a potential to become a global jewellery manufacturing hub. After downtrend for the past three years, gems and jewellery industry has started looking up and we will achieve the glory once again, Kamboj said.