Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), the world’s largest operational diamond exchange, welcomed two prominent dignitaries —CR Paatil, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Government of India, and Harsh Sanghvi, Minister of Home, Industries, Transport, Youth & Sports, Government of Gujarat. The dignitaries toured the expansive BDB campus and interacted with members of the gem and jewellery industry, reinforcing their support for industrial growth and sustainability initiatives.
The welcoming ceremony was attended by Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of GJEPC; Anoop Mehta, President of BDB; and Mehul Shah, Vice President of BDB, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries for their visit.
As part of the visit, Harsh Sanghvi participated in the Ayambil Oli religious event, where he served food to over 2,000 devotees. Later, both ministers toured the newly inaugurated Customs and logistics area of the BDB, followed by a visit to the Mumbai Diamond Manufacturers Association (MDMA). Bharat Shah briefed the ministers on how the diamond industry supports thousands of livelihoods by providing employment and a robust trading ecosystem.
During the formal address, Anoop Mehta welcomed the dignitaries and said, “The BDB committee and members are deeply honored by your visit. Your support strengthens our resolve to lead the diamond industry with integrity, innovation, and responsibility.”
Union Minister CR Patil used the opportunity to emphasize the importance of sustainable water practices, saying, “Jal hai toh kal hai (Water is life). Under the Jal Shakti initiative, over 3 lakh wells have been built across the country to store drinking water. This mission reflects India’s deep commitment to solving its water crisis through community involvement.”
Highlighting its environmental commitment, Mehul Shah noted, “BDB was designed with foresight. Since 1991, we’ve harvested over 2 lakh litres of water and recycle wastewater for gardening and sanitation within the Bourse. Sustainability has always been at the core of our vision.”
Harsh Sanghvi applauded the growth of the diamond industry and reassured his government’s continued support. “This industry is not just about trade, it’s about empowering millions of people. Gujarat stands with the diamond community in its journey of global excellence,” he said.
The dignitaries also visited BDB’s world-class security department, where Samir Jha gave a detailed briefing on the integrated surveillance and safety systems installed within the premises.
