A Unifying Force The Domestic Council for Gems & Jewellery, which is in the final stages of formation, is a reflection of the industry’s determination to project a unified front for getting its voice heard. It is one of the major reforms undertaken by the Government of India to bring together a fragmented and opaque industry on a single structured platform. So far 16 big trade associations representing the entire gem and jewellery supply chain – including jewelers, manufacturers, miners, artisanscraftsperson’s, refiners, bullion dealers, hallmarking centres, etc. – have joined hands to lay the groundwork for the Domestic Council. Turn to the Cover Story for an exhaustive report by industry analyst Sanjiv Arole. Also read the opinions of key members of the Domestic Council’s ad hoc committee, including Rajesh Khosla, Surendra Mehta, Anantha Padmanaban and Duli Chand Karel. With the aim of strengthening trade relationships and augmenting business, the GJEPC organised the 4th edition of the India-SAARC-Middle East buyer- seller meet in Chennai and the 6th edition of the India Gemstone Week in Jaipur last month. The events each got more than 75 international buyers from several different countries.