Surat diamond manufacturing sector in dire straits; seeks government help 

Diamond Worker Union Gujarat, an apex body of diamond workers in Gujarat, has sought an immediate economic package for the diamond industry following a 25 per cent tariff imposed by the USA and the threat of an additional 25 per cent looming large over the industry.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, the Union said that there is also a need for Ratnadeep scheme for the unemployed workers. The Union has also sought financial assistance to the families of workers who have committed suicide. Among their other demands include abolishing professional tax and provide benefits as per the labour laws.

The letter has been signed by Union president R. D. Zilariya and Union vice president Bhavesh Tank. An estimated 20 lakh to 25 lakh diamond workers work in the diamond industry, and the state polishes nine out of the 10 diamonds of the world. The Union  has expressed fear that if 50 per cent tariff is imposed then 1.50 lakh to 2 lakh diamond workers could lose their jobs. It said that the situation of the diamond industry is already bad due to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, sanctions of G-7 countries, global recession and conflict between Israel and Hamas. Pointing out that 40 per cent of India’s polished diamonds are sold in the US, the Union said that the effect will be severe due to the tariff, as the diamonds would become costly.

The letter states that about 80 diamond workers have committed suicide in last two years for not being able to pay children’s fees, home loans due to unemployment. They have also demanded that the state government should immediately give money under the economic package that has already been announced by it.