The All India Gems and Jewellery Federation (GJF) has appointed a new chairman, Mr. Haresh Chamanbhai Soni. GJF installed him in the new role at a glittering ceremony in Mumbai, beginning with the ceremonious lighting of the lamp, and attended by members of GJF and jewellers from all over the country. Mr. Bachhraj Bamalwa, the outgoing chairman of GJF handed over the charge of GJF Chairman to Mr. Soni. Mr. Bachhraj Bamalwa was felicitated with a coffee-table book showcasing the brightest moments of his tenure.

Mr. Soni, has been one of the founder members of GJF, has been voted Chairman Elect for the term 2013- 2015 along with the newly formed Executive Committee.

In his new role, Mr Soni will work with the new Executive team to strengthen and consolidate GJF’s presence all across the country and reach out to converge the jewellery industry on a single platform. Taking educational and training programes to all stake holders for the benefit of jewellery industry, creating a conducive environment for business growth for the sake of the people of the trade, are some of his agendas. Mr. Soni also plans to consolidate and build on the existing GJF structure – its policies and its charter, with a bottom to top approach that allows everyone to voice opinions and a person at the grass root level to be part of the system. He also noted that existing projects like National Jewellery Award, Preferred Manufacturer of India (PMI), GJF Night, Leadership Summits and Education and Training programs would continue and the Trust Mark Program would also be introduced.

Addressing the gathering, he said, “I have gained and learnt immensely from my experience. As chairman, the benefits I have derived on a professional, personal and social level are quite extraordinary. On a professional front – GJF is like pursuing a full time MBA degree. Learning happens on various matters on a regular basis He also said that it would be a privilege to be working with Mr. Manish Jain, the newly appointed vice- chairman of GJF.