What Is InnovNXT 40 Under 40?
The InnovNXT 40 Under 40 is a leadership summit under the IIJS banner, designed to spotlight innovation, adaptability, and strategic vision among the young change-makers of the jewellery world.
Key Objectives:
- Celebrate 40 visionary leaders under the age of 40
- Create a platform for innovation, mentorship, and dialogue
- Prepare the industry for emerging trends and technologies
Voices from the Industry
In her keynote, Minister Aditi Tatkare hailed the initiative as “a platform of growth, dialogue, and responsibility,” urging young entrepreneurs to honour India’s jewellery heritage while embracing cutting-edge innovation.
Govind Dholakia, Rajya Sabha MP, in his virtual address, inspired the audience to lead with values and resilience. InnovNXT is not merely a recognition platform but a collaborative opportunity for young leaders to exchange ideas and grow. He urges the next generation to passionately uphold and evolve their family legacies while maintaining a socially responsible mindset. He underscores that true progress comes from solving real-world issues and warns that staying in a comfort zone limits growth.
GJEPC Chair Kirit Bhansali emphasized the need for “sustainability, ethics, and transparency” as pillars of the industry’s future, while Nirav Bhansali positioned InnovNXT as the launchpad for a new era of digital transformation, AI-driven jewellery design, and green practices.
Innovation-Driven Discussions and Panels
The summit included high-energy sessions on:
- IPO readiness and startup scaling
- Women in leadership across the jewellery ecosystem
- Lab-grown diamonds and modern branding
- Digital-first marketing, WhatsApp commerce, and UPI integration
- Sustainable sourcing and circular economy practices
Industry stalwarts like Saurabh Gadgil (PNG Jewellers) and Tehmasp Printer (IGI India) shared critical insights that resonated with the ambitions of next-gen jewellers.
The Economic Outlook
During the summit, experts projected that India’s diamond jewellery market is expected to reach $17 billion by 2031, while the broader gem & jewellery industry could cross $120 billion. This forecast underscores the importance of nurturing new talent and innovation to meet global demands.
A Launchpad for the Future
This initiative also marks a strategic shift in how GJEPC is investing in its future, by offering these honorees:
- Access to mentorship and high-level networking
- Speaking platforms at IIJS Premiere 2025 and future expos
- Global visibility and opportunities for collaboration
A Generation That Dares to Lead
InnovNXT 40 Under 40 is not just a celebration—it’s a movement. It reflects a deep-rooted commitment by GJEPC to embrace the next generation of leaders who blend creativity with commerce, tradition with technology, and sustainability with scalability.
By recognising and empowering these young leaders, the Indian gem and jewellery industry is securing a bright, ethical, and globally competitive future.
Want the latest updates? Explore our News section