Today marks a significant milestone as Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC at the SEEPZ SEZ in Mumbai on 12th January. This momentous event is a testament to the Government’s commitment to driving innovation, economic growth, and technological advancement.
The Mega CFC, the first-of-its-kind in India, was conceptualised based on the request of gems & jewellery trade to the Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. This project aims at creating a world-class infrastructure for promoting the inherent skills of the gems & jewellery manufacturing industry. The Mega Common Facilitation Centre provides a supportive and collaborative environment for entrepreneurs, MSMEs and small businesses to grow and thrive.
Bharat Ratnam will house the cutting-edge equipment, including a 3D Metal printer. It will also provide training and skilling for artisans, including specially abled students. The Mega CFC will transform the export sector in the gem and jewellery trade and will also help the domestic manufacturing.
At SEEPZ- SEZ, Prime Minister inaugurated the New Enterprises & Services Tower (NEST)- 01, which is primarily for gem & jewellery sector units which will be relocated from existing Standard Design Factory – I. The new tower has been designed for large-scale production and as per the demand of the industry.
Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “Salute to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for steering a remarkable era of development across all sectors. His visionary strides towards shaping a Viksit Bharat are not only evident in groundbreaking policy reforms, but also in the development of infrastructure that promises to redefine the business landscape. On behalf of the Indian gem and jewellery community, I extend heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister for his forward-thinking approach. The government’s steadfast support, exemplified by the establishment of the Mega CFC Bharat Ratnam in SEEPZ, Mumbai, lays a robust foundation for the industry’s future growth. Mega CFC is integral to the industry’s plan to double the SEZ export target from $7 billion to $15 billion, unlocking the untapped potential of around $30 billion.”
Shah informed that the Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC was conceptualised by GJEPC. The feasibility study and project report were done through National Productivity Council by GJEPC. The Project report was adopted by MoC and funded through SEEPZ. The implementation of the project was carried out by Mega CFC Committee nominated by GJEPC along with SEEPZ authority. GJEPC has signed an MoU to operate the Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC.
Shah added, “The Prime Minister’s commitment to this transformative vision is nothing short of inspiring, and we eagerly anticipate the flourishing journey that lies ahead for the gem and jewellery sector, driven by this visionary leadership. GJEPC will collaborate with SEEPZ and Government of India to transform the gem and jewellery industry. The Mega CFC shines as a symbol of innovation, featuring cutting-edge technologies certified for carbon neutrality. It houses a dedicated R & D Centre, a Training & Skilling School for inclusive education, and versatile facilities for exhibitions and events.”
Rajesh Kumar Mishra, IRS Zonal Development Commissioner, SEEPZ-SEZ said, “I express by heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi for initiating the step to transform the SEZs, which he has successfully started from SEEPZ Mumbai. This essential renovation and upgrade were timely necessities which will further boost gem and jewellery exports from our country. And the best part is Mega CFC facilities will be made available at a reasonable rate not only to SEEPZ-SEZ units but also to factories outside the zone which will improve the output in terms of quality, productivity, and yield of the finished jewellery.”
C. P. S. Chauhan. IRS, Joint Development Commissioner, SEEPZ-SEZ, said, “The construction of Bharat Ratnam, India’s first Mega CFC was completed within an astonishing 14-month period! This achievement illustrates the collaboration between the Government, GJEPC, and SEEPZ for their collective efforts in completing this project in record time. I thank Hon’ble PM and Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal ji for transformative projects to reshape the landscape of SEEPZ.”
Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, said, “We are honoured and thrilled to witness the momentous occasion of the Honourable Prime Minister laying the foundation stone for NEST 1 and Bharat Ratnam at SEEPZ SEZ. The gem & jewellery sector comprises a maximum of MSMEs (jewellery manufacturers and retailers) who have affordability constraints for the modern technology, research & development and skilled manpower. Mega CFC bridges this gap to maintain the competitiveness through the latest in 3-Ts (Technology, Techniques and Training) from across the globe at a single facilitation centre. Bharat Ratnam is poised to become a game-changer, shaping the future of the industry providing a conducive environment for cutting-edge technology,” he stated.
This far-seeing initiative reflects the Government’s steadfast commitment to encouraging innovation and technological excellence. NEST 1/Bharat Ratnam is poised to become a game-changer, shaping the future of the industry by providing a conducive environment for cutting-edge research and development.
Colin Shah, Head – Working Group, Bharat Ratnam, Mega CFC, commented, “Thanks to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi and Shri Piyush Goyal, for the backing this mega project. The distinctive feature of the Bharat Ratnam is in its innovative concept. This groundbreaking concept is centred on making high-tech resources accessible to every entrepreneur involved in the global and domestic jewellery manufacturer. With robust support from the Commerce, Industry, and the Government of India, we are transforming the landscape by democratising access to cutting-edge technology. It will empower every individual to engage in jewellery manufacturing at the highest level. This 360-degree service model is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary skills, connect them with global customers, and provide continuous learning through seminars.”
Bharat Ratnam is a well-structured layout, with the first three floors housing advanced technologies; the fourth floor is dedicated to training workers, with a special focus on creating opportunities for deaf and mute workers through partnerships with local NGOs. The fifth floor will be a hub for buyer-seller meets, fostering global connections, and the sixth floor will serve as a Convention Centre for symposiums throughout the year, providing entrepreneurs with access to valuable knowledge and networking opportunities.
According to Colin Shah, “This visionary initiative has only been made possible through the invaluable support of SEEPZ. The unique and novel nature of this concept has garnered the attention and endorsement of the Prime Minister. The endorsement underscores the potential for replication across various industries, signifying a transformative approach that extends far beyond the realm of jewellery manufacturing.”
Bobby Kothari, Working Group, Bharat Ratnam, stated, “Bharat Ratnam – Mega CFC is dedicated to advancing Technology, Techniques, and Training, ensuring that every participant in the industry, regardless of size, has an equitable chance to access the associated benefits. Our aim is to enhance the quality, diversity, and efficiency of offerings, extending our impact from SEEPZ and beyond.”
Neville Tata, Member – Working Group, Bharat Ratnam, noted, “The Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC stands as an unparalleled gift to the gems and jewellery trade, a testament to the Commerce Ministry’s commitment to both SEZs and DTA markets. Executed by the SEEPZ SEZ Andheri East Mumbai zone under the guidance of their senior officials DC & JDC, this monumental project in the heart of the financial capital will be managed and run by GJEPC. The Mega CFC will enable our trade to manufacture a greater number of pieces for export, thereby boosting the economies of scale for the trade. As we set our sights on reaching $75 billion mark in the coming years, this aligns seamlessly with the visionary goals of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal, whose invaluable support and guidance have been instrumental in realising this transformative endeavour.
“Our thanks also go to the contractors, design architects, vendors, SEEPZ SEZ officials, and the working group members of the GJEPC who have poured their hard work, sweat, and time into this Mega CFC project over the last 18 months. Together, we celebrate a milestone that will undoubtedly shape the future of the gems and jewellery trade,” Tata said.
Adil Kotwal, Member – Working Group, Bharat Ratnam, remarked, “Bharat Ratnam, the Mega CFC project, stands as a pioneering endeavour that will revolutionise the global gems and jewellery industry. The centre not only levels the playing field for small and medium-sized manufacturers but also positions India as a frontrunner in the global jewellery market. The visionary concept of the Mega CFC aligns seamlessly with the evolving landscape of industry trends, ensuring that entrepreneurs not only compete but excel on the global stage.”
Fast Facts About Bharat Ratnam:
- The 1.15 lakh square feet built-up area with basement, Ground plus 6 floors is a green project with a keen focus on carbon neutrality – certified by The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).
- The Mega CFC, a technological marvel, will have a skilling and training school, and accommodate 200 students in each batch, offering a comprehensive 4-month program. Forty slots will be reserved for specially abled students, to ensure inclusivity in skill development, and guaranteeing employment opportunities upon completion, with no training fees.
- Bharat Ratnam boasts a sprawling 12,000 square feet exhibition area, available year-round, for showcasing the industry’s finest creations.
- A Multi-Purpose Hall, with a capacity of 350-400 persons, will serve as a versatile venue for workshops, seminars, and events.
- Bharat Ratnam will offer a 24*7 Customs clearance facility on-site, featuring separate strong rooms catering to both SEZ and DTA units.
- To enhance sustainability, the facility is centrally air-conditioned, supported by DG backup, and incorporates solar panels on the rooftop.
- The centre aims to serve as a hub of innovation and a catalyst for holistic growth in the gems and jewellery sector.
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Cutting-Edge Technical Services @ Bharat Ratnam:
- CAD & CAD Rendering Services
- 3D Printing Services – Metal
- 3D Printing Services– Ceramic
- 3D Printing Services – Resin & Wax
- Casting Services (Gold, Platinum & Silver)
- CNC Services
- Refining Services (Gold, Platinum & Silver)
- Mass Finishing Services
- LGD Testing Services
- Hallmarking Services
- Colour Laser Engraving Services
- Micron Plating / Rhodium Plating Services
- Enamel / Coating Services
- LAB Testing Services including XRF
- Photography & Video Services
- Training & Skilling School