Surat : The ongoing slowdown in Surat’s diamond industry has now reached the national stage, with local Member of Parliament Mukesh Dalal raising the issue during Zero Hour in Parliament. Highlighting the plight of lakhs of diamond workers, Dalal appealed to the central government to intervene and provide immediate relief to the struggling sector.
Known as the world’s diamond hub, Surat has been severely impacted by the current global economic downturn and war-like situations. According to Dalal, diamond merchants are sitting on billions of dollars worth of unsold inventory, and the crisis has pushed an estimated 20 to 25 lakh diamond workers to the brink of unemployment. Many workers are struggling to meet basic household needs.
MP Dalal urged the Gujarat state government to form a review committee headed by a senior minister to assess the situation. He also recommended launching a special financial assistance scheme for the diamond industry and gemstone artisans. He emphasized the need for the government to step in and help resolve the issues faced by workers during this challenging period.
Meanwhile, diamond workers in Surat have called for a strike and unity rally on March 30. Labour unions have warned that if the government fails to take decisive action soon, the agitation will intensify. Bhavesh Tank, Vice President of the Diamond Workers Union, has demanded wage increases and a comprehensive government relief package.
All eyes are now on the government's response to MP Dalal's appeal. Will a review committee be formed? Will a financial aid package be announced?
With the diamond industry being the backbone of Surat’s economy, timely intervention by the government is crucial to prevent the situation from worsening further.
