Gem & Jewellery Council: The All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC), the apex body representing the Indian gem and jewellery industry, has announced its new leadership for the 2025-26 term. Mr. Rajesh Rokde has been elected as the Chairman, and Mr. Avinash Gupta has been named the Vice Chairman. The appointments were confirmed at the first Board Meeting following the conclusion of GJC’s COA elections in December 2024.
Rajesh Rokde: A Visionary Leader
Mr. Rajesh Rokde, from the renowned Rokde Jewellers in Nagpur, brings with him over a century-old family legacy in the jewellery business. Representing the Large Retailers category, Mr. Rokde has played a pivotal role in addressing key industry challenges, including GST reforms, import duty policies, and hallmarking regulations. His tenure as Vice Chairman and Legal Committee Convener has earned him a reputation for effective leadership and proactive problem-solving.
“I am deeply honored to lead GJC at this transformative juncture,” Mr. Rokde said. “Our mission is to drive sustainable growth, enhance consumer trust, and position India’s jewellery industry as a global leader.”
Avinash Gupta: A Trusted Industry Advocate
Mr. Avinash Gupta of Mamraj Mussadilal Jewellers in Hyderabad takes on the role of Vice Chairman. A veteran of the gems and jewellery sector, Mr. Gupta has been actively involved in policy advocacy, particularly in areas like GST compliance and import duties. He has also led delegations to Shanghai, London, and Turkey to study gold exchanges, contributing to the establishment of the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX).
“It is a privilege to serve as Vice Chairman,” Mr. Gupta said. “Together with Mr. Rokde and our team, we aim to address the industry’s challenges and foster innovation, ethical practices, and growth for all stakeholders.”
Outgoing Chairman’s Remarks
Mr. Saiyam Mehra, the outgoing Chairman and now Immediate Past Chairman, expressed pride in his accomplishments during his tenure. “I congratulate Mr. Rokde and Mr. Gupta and am confident that their leadership will take GJC to new heights. I will continue to support the Council in every way possible,” he said.
Leadership Priorities
Under the new leadership, GJC plans to focus on:
- Promoting skill development and ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
- Enhancing transparency and boosting consumer confidence.
- Addressing concerns of artisans, traders, and retailers.
COA Election Results
The newly elected Committee of Administration (COA) for 2025-26 includes:
- Mr. Rajesh Rokde (Chairman & Zonal Chairman – West) – Large Retailer, West Zone
- Mr. Avinash Gupta (Vice Chairman & Zonal Chairman – South) – Larger Wholesaler, South Zone
- Mr. Saiyam Mehra (Immediate Past Chairman) – Large Wholesaler, West Zone
- Dr. Ravi Kapoor (Zonal Chairman – North) – Large Retailer, North Zone
- Mr. Sunil Poddar (Zonal Chairman – East) – Medium Manufacturer Jewellery, East Zone
- Mr. Amit Jindal (COA Member) – Medium Retailer, North Zone
- Mr. Amit Kumar Soni (COA Member) – Small Manufacturer Jewellery, East Zone
- Mr. Ashok Kumar Jain (COA Member) – Medium Retailer, South Zone
- Mr. Gurjeet Singh (COA Member) – Small Retailer, North Zone
- Mr. HM Sultan Mohideen (COA Member) – Small Retailer, South Zone
- Mr. Madan Kothari (COA Member) – Small Manufacturer Jewellery, West Zone
- Mr. Nilesh S. Shobhawat (COA Member) – Small & Medium Wholesaler, West Zone
- Mr. Ravi Prakash Agarwal (COA Member) – Small Retailer, North Zone
- Mr. Rupesh Tambi (COA Member) – Small & Medium Wholesaler, North Zone
- Mr. Sahil Mehra (COA Member) – Medium Manufacturer Jewellery, West Zone
- Mr. Salim Daginawala (COA Member) – Large Retailer, West Zone
- Mr. Samar Kumar De (COA Member) – Medium Retailer, East Zone
- Mr. Siddharth Sawansukha (COA Member) – Large Manufacturer Jewellery, East Zone
- Mr. Sourav Roy (COA Member) – Small Retailer, East Zone
- Mr. Suyash Agrawal (COA Member) – Small & Medium Manufacturer Silver Jewellery, West Zone
- Mr. Vardhaman Kothari (COA Member) – Small Retailer, West Zone
About GJC
Established 19 years ago, the All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council is a national trade body dedicated to promoting the growth and interests of the Indian jewellery industry. Serving as a bridge between the government and the trade, GJC undertakes initiatives to enhance industry standards and foster innovation.
Under the stewardship of Mr. Rokde and Mr. Gupta, GJC is set to spearhead a new era of growth and global recognition for the Indian gem and jewellery sector.
