Udupi: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the new premises of the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ) in Udupi on Friday, marking a new opportunity for young people and aspiring entrepreneurs seeking professional training in the jewellery sector.
Speaking at the inauguration, Sitharaman said the new training institute would provide professional and industry-focused training to youth and young entrepreneurs, helping them develop skills relevant to the growing gems and jewellery sector.
Institute equipped with advanced machinery
The new facility has been equipped with 41 machines covering jewellery manufacturing, computer-aided design (CAD), casting, testing and finishing.
It also features full production line facilities, allowing trainees to gain practical exposure to various stages of jewellery manufacturing and related processes.
The facilities are aimed at providing learners with hands-on training alongside technical knowledge, helping them prepare for opportunities in the jewellery industry.
IIGJ and IIT Madras sign MoU
During the programme, Sitharaman witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the IIGJ and IIT Madras for a specialised, industry-oriented certification programme in lab-grown diamond technologies.
The collaboration is expected to provide specialised training in an emerging area of the gems and jewellery industry, while giving students and professionals an opportunity to develop skills aligned with industry requirements.
The establishment of the new facility in Udupi is expected to strengthen access to specialised jewellery training in the region and create opportunities for young people interested in building careers or enterprises in the sector.
The institute’s combination of manufacturing facilities and specialised training is aimed at connecting skill development with practical industry requirements.