The 8th edition of the Hyderabad Jewellery, Pearl and Gem Fair (HJF) concluded last week with the organisers UBM India reporting an increase in participating exhibitors as well as visitors as compared to last year's edition.

The three day event attracted visitors from different parts of the country, particularly South India.

Yogesh Mudras, Acting Managing Director, UBM India, said, "The Hyderabad Jewellery, Pearl and Gem Fair, over the years, has become an industry benchmark for trade in the region and will continue to be the South India gateway for markets across the country."

Vijaya Kumar, President, Narasaraopet District, said, " The organisers understand the requirements of all the importers, exporters, distributors and other value chain players and, through this event, helps us showcase our product offerings to retailers."

Mahendra Tayal, President, HJMA, said, "UBM India's HJF is the right platform for the industry players to showcase the latest offerings to customers. It also connects large scale traders with the retailers in the region. We have seen an encouraging response from the visitors."

Hyderabad Jewellery, Pearl and Gem Fair 2015 was supported by key jewellery associations from across South India including: AP Gold Silver & Diamond Merchant Association, Secunderabad Jewellers Association, Narsaraopet Jewellers Association, East Godavri Jewellers Association & West Godavari Jewellers Association, Guntur Jewellers Association.

The joint annual general meeting between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh jewellers associations was also held during the event. On the occasion, UBM India felicitated select jewellers from the region:

Lifetime Achievement Award for 100 Glorious Years of contribution: Gopal Rao from Shri Venkata Ramana Jewellery, Vizianagaram Parvatipuram

Award for contribution of 80 glorious years: Irfan Khan, Managing Director, Mohammed Khan & Son Jewellers, Guntur

Award for contribution of 70 glorious years: B. Mahesh, Yogesh Bhavanasi Venkata Sunbbaiah Chary & Sons, Kurnool Nandyal