Gujarat CM refuses relief packages to state diamond industry

The Gujarat diamond industry was asked by the Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to look within themselves to find solutions to the ongoing market slowdown, rather than depend on the state government for a relief package. The CM refused to extend relief packages, although mentioning that he could at the most talk to the Centre about it.

The state’s diamond industry was seeking a subsidy on power and relief package for its skilled workers. Instead, it was advised that members of the industry should gather themselves to find solutions to the problems. According to him, the state’s diamond industry has been benefiting from many incentives like VAT respite and the government’s Jyotigram Yojana (24-hour electricity supply to villages). It should now look at helping themselves and the society too, although the state government would intervene as a catalyst.

His suggestions were that the industry should identify many of its strengths, like creating a brand identity for Surat diamonds, and such other marketing strategies. The CM mentioned that the state is willing to assist through human resources development & planning and by absorbing the jobless diamond workers under the Gram Rojagar Yojana.