Mumbai: The All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC), the apex body representing the Indian gem and jewellery industry, has appointed its new leadership. Rajesh Rokde has been elected as Chairman, and Avinash Gupta as Vice Chairman for the term 2025-26. The appointments were confirmed at the council’s first Board Meeting following the completion of the Committee of Administration (COA) elections in December 2024.
Rajesh Rokde of Rokde Jewellers, Nagpur, brings a legacy of over 100 years in the jewellery industry to his new role. Representing the Large Retailers category in GJC, Mr. Rokde has previously served as Vice Chairman and Legal Committee Convener. He has been instrumental in resolving critical issues like GST, import duties, hallmarking, and other key concerns of the industry.
Expressing his vision,Rokde said, “I am deeply honoured to take on the responsibility of leading GJC at this pivotal time. The Indian gem and jewellery industry stands at the cusp of transformation, and it is our mission to work collectively towards sustainable growth, increased consumer trust, and greater recognition on the global stage. I look forward to collaborating with industry stakeholders to achieve our shared vision.”
Avinash Gupta, from Mamraj Mussadilal Jewellers, Hyderabad, is a respected figure in the gems and jewellery industry. During his tenure from 2016 to 2022, he contributed significantly to GJC’s initiatives, including the representation of the council in global delegations and the establishment of the International Bullion Exchange.
On his election, Gupta shared, “It is a privilege to serve as the Vice Chairman of GJC. Together with Mr. Rokde and our dedicated COA team, I am confident that we can address the challenges faced by the industry and pave the way for new opportunities. Our focus will remain on driving ethical practices, embracing technological advancements, and ensuring the growth of small and medium enterprises in this sector.”
Outgoing Chairman Saiyam Mehra will now assume the role of Immediate Past Chairman. Reflecting on his term, Mehra said, “It has been an incredible journey serving as the Chairman of GJC. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, from championing the interests of the industry to driving initiatives that have strengthened GJC and our community. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Rajesh Rokde and Mr. Avinash Gupta, and I am confident that their leadership will take GJC to new heights.”
The new leadership aims to focus on key priorities, including skill development, promoting ‘Make in India’ initiatives, enhancing consumer confidence, and addressing stakeholder concerns across the value chain.
The full list of GJC’s COA members for the term 2025-26 includes representatives from across India, ensuring diverse voices contribute to the council’s direction and initiatives.
1) Rajesh Rokde (Chairman & Zonal Chairman – West) – Large Retailer, West Zone
2) Avinash Gupta (Vice Chairman & Zonal Chairman – South) – Larger Wholesaler, South Zone
3) Saiyam Mehra (Immediate Past Chairman) – Large Wholesaler, West Zone
4) Dr. Ravi Kapoor (Zonal Chairman – North) – Large Retailer, North Zone
5) Sunil Poddar (Zonal Chairman – East) – Medium Manufacturer Jewellery, East Zone
6) Amit Jindal (COA Member) – Medium Retailer, North Zone
7) Amit Kumar Soni (COA Member) – Small Manufacturer Jewellery, East Zone
8) Ashok Kumar Jain (COA Member) – Medium Retailer, South Zone
9) Gurjeet Singh (COA Member) – Small Retailer, North Zone
10) HM Sultan Mohideen (COA Member) – Small Retailer, South Zone
11) Madan Kothari (COA Member) – Small Manufacturer Jewellery, West Zone
12) Nilesh S. Shobhawat (COA Member) – Small & Medium Wholesaler, West Zone
13) Ravi Prakash Agarwal (COA Member) – Small Retailer, North Zone
14) Rupesh Tambi (COA Member) – Small & Medium Wholesaler, North Zone
15) Sahil Mehra (COA Member) – Medium Manufacturer Jewellery, West Zone
16) Salim Daginawala (COA Member) – Large Retailer, West Zone
17) Samar Kumar De (COA Member) – Medium Retailer, East Zone
18) Siddharth Sawansukha (COA Member) – Large Manufacturer Jewellery, East Zone
19) Sourav Roy (COA Member) – Small Retailer, East Zone
20) Suyash Agrawal (COA Member) – Small & Medium Manufacturer Silver Jewellery, West Zone
21) Vardhaman Kothari (COA Member) – Small Retailer, West Zone
