The much-awaited India Gem & Jewellery Awards for 2014 organised by GJEPC were distributed to leading performers from India’s gem and jewellery industry by Chief Guest Hon’ble Devendra Fadnavis, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra at a function at Tata Theatre, NCPA, Mumbai. The hall was packed and there was much enthusiasm and cheering as the comperes for the evening, Mandira Bedi and Cyrus Broacha called out the names of the winners in different categories.

Maximum applause was reserved for three of the biggest winners – Kiran Group, Hari Krishna Group and SRK Group, all of whom received more than one award, including some of the most prestigious categories like C&P Diamonds (Highest Turnover), Best Growing Company, Most Innovative Company and Exporter of the Year.

A standing ovation was also given to Navinbhai Mehta who was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his many achievements in the over five decades that he has been associated with the industry and leading trade bodies including the GJEPC. Navinbhai was accompanied on stage by his entire family, and in an emotional speech, thanked the Council for honouring him and said he had learnt a lot during this journey.

The function was addressed by Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, Colin Shah and Ajesh Mehta, Convener and Co-Convener of the Awards Sub-committee as well as other dignitaries. Chief Guest Devendra Fadnavis congratulated all the winners whom he described as “true gems” of the industry and also assured the gathering that his government wanted to partner with the industry and ensure it continued to grow at the national level and within the state too (see separate story).

The new format of the event, whether in terms of new categories, new parameters of evaluation or the new style of presentation has struck a chord with the industry. The number of nominations has soared, the competition has become stiffer and the winners are even more deserving. But it was the energy in the hall and the thunderous applause that followed as the roll of honour was read out that best captured the new spirit of the IGJA.

The complete list of Award Winners: