Surat – The industrial hub of Surat, known for its thriving diamond and textile sectors, is witnessing a stark contrast between the two major industries. While the diamond polishing industry is experiencing a severe slowdown, resulting in the unemployment of nearly 50,000 workers, the textile industry is facing an acute labor shortage of around 200,000 workers. Industry experts suggest that if unemployed diamond workers consider transitioning into the textile sector, both industries could benefit significantly.
As per report, workers involved in diamond polishing, who were earning around Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000 per month, could earn up to Rs 30,000 monthly in the textile sector. The city’s textile industry currently employs around 10 to 12 lakh people directly or indirectly, while the diamond industry engages 8 to 10 lakh workers.
Though market fluctuations are common in any industrial setup, the prolonged recession in the diamond sector has impacted workers' financial stability. Meanwhile, the textile industry is struggling with a shortage of laborers in various segments including weaving, job work, embroidery, dyeing, and printing mills.
Vijay Mangukiya, President of Surat Weavers Association, stated that the textile industry is open to welcoming workers from the diamond sector. He added that most of the jobs in textile units require minimal training, and within 15 to 20 days, a worker can acquire the necessary skills to earn a steady income of Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000 per month.
Mangukiya also urged the government to establish training centers to skill workers for the textile industry, which could help reemploy those affected by the diamond industry slowdown. He recommended opening similar training facilities for homemakers as well, allowing them to become economically self-reliant by participating in the textile workforce.
However, Bhavesh Tank, Vice President of the Diamond Workers’ Union, expressed concern over the feasibility of transitioning to a completely new profession. He questioned whether labor laws are properly enforced in the textile sector and highlighted the difficulties that long-time diamond workers may face in adapting to new skill sets.
Ritvik Shiyani, a diamond worker, echoed similar concerns, noting that the specialized skills acquired in the diamond industry may not be applicable in other fields. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that exploring alternative employment options has become essential in the face of the ongoing crisis.
With the diamond sector in decline and the textile industry in urgent need of manpower, a potential shift of workers between these two industries could offer a viable solution. Coordinated efforts by industry leaders and the government could provide relief to unemployed workers while simultaneously strengthening the textile industry’s growth trajectory.
