Mumbai: The grand ceremonial opening of the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC) on 9th January marked a defining moment for IIJS Bharat Signature 2026, bringing together industry leadership, diplomacy and retail at onestage. The occasion reinforced why the first global gem & jewellery show of the year remains the trade’s early year barometer, not just for sentiment, but for direction.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, positioned the industry’s current phase as one defined by credibility and confidence. “India is no longer just responding to global markets. India is helping shape them,” he said, pointing to India’s third term as Chair of the Kimberley Process,
globally aligned BIS diamond terminology, and a widening network of FTAs. He noted that these steps are strengthening transparency, consumer trust and global access, while reducing dependence on a few traditional markets. “IIJS is where global opportunity meets Indian capability. Where access becomes action.”
That sentiment was reinforced by Mr. Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, who delivered the vote of thanks and described the show as a much-vaunted platform designed to convert industry
leadership into positive business outcomes.
Mr. Arun Narayan, CEO, Jewellery Division, Tanishq, said, “IIJS is the crucible where the industry comes together to connect, learn, understand where things are headed and, of course, to do business. IIJS Bharat Signature is the signature event of the year for our industry. Jewellery in India goes back over 5,000 years. You can go as far and as deep as you want, and you will still never reach the end of
learning in this industry.”
Offering a diplomatic perspective, HE Mr. Neeraj Agarwal, Ambassador-Designate of India to Mauritania,
linked the industry’s progress to policy momentum: “The gems and jewellery sector reflects India’s rich heritage and supports millions of livelihoods, and despite geopolitical challenges it continues to grow. From the Ministry of External Affairs, I can assure the industry of the full support of the Government of India under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Mr. Narendra Modi, working closely with the Commerce
Ministry and other departments to strengthen exports, expand FTAs and open new markets. I also invite Indian companies interested in gold mining to engage with our missions, including in gold-rich regions such as West Africa.”
Together, the voices on the dais captured the tone of IIJS Bharat Signature 2026. Confident, outward-looking and grounded in execution. As the show builds towards its business peak, the message
from Day Three is clear. The industry has direction, policy backing and platforms that convert ambition into business.
