Among the prominent figures who launched their offices were Govind Dholakia, Chairman of SDB and BJP Rajya Sabha MP, Lalji Patel, Vice-Chairman of SDB, and Vallabhbhai Lakhani.

SDB chairman Govind Dholakia inaugurated his export office for Shree Ramkrishna, and seven other renowned diamond firms also commenced operations on Sunday.

Patel further revealed that while 500 offices are currently undergoing interior work, plans are in place to have 1,000 offices operational by Diwali. The upcoming establishment of a dedicated customs house at SDB aims to streamline all export and import activities at the bourse.

“GJEPC has already launched its office at SDB, and banks are eager to follow suit. We are also arranging small cubicles for diamond brokers from Varachha and Mahidharpura to facilitate their business operations,” Patel added, underscoring collaborative efforts with the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) to initiate bus services connecting diamond colonies to Khajod, the location of SDB. Dholakia expressed optimism about the future, stating, “While 250 offices have commenced operations, over 4,200 offices are yet to be opened at SDB. Once fully operational, this facility will attract diamond merchants and brokers currently operating from Mahidharpura and Varachha.”

Meanwhile, Vijay Mangukiya, Chairman of GJEPC Gujarat region, addressed educational reforms, advocating for Bengali to be included as an optional language in Surat’s municipal and grant-in-aid schools up to Class 8. This initiative aims to support over 70,000 Bengali artisans employed in Surat’s diamond factories, facilitating their integration and permanence in the city.

The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to bolster Surat’s diamond industry infrastructure, while addressing broader socio-cultural needs within the community. Stakeholders anticipate continued growth and development at SDB as it emerges as a pivotal hub for the global diamond trade.

This move signifies a step forward in enhancing Surat’s position as a global diamond trading powerhouse, with implications for economic growth and community welfare in the region.