Former Union Minister Smriti Irani has raised concerns about the lack of comprehensive data on women in the gems and jewelry sector during an event focused on empowering women entrepreneurs in jewelry exports. She suggested the industry should address this issue and provide more information about career opportunities for women. Irani also suggested reaching out to business schools to raise awareness about these opportunities.
The former union minister mentions "The question that I was most perturbed by is that when you talk about women in the business of gems and jewelry and try to research the very concept data and studies are few and far between." She urged to address this constraint adding "The fact that the problem in itself can be best articulated in the absence of such data speaks volumes. For how do you provide a solution to a problem that many do not know exists."
The Gem and Jewelry Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has been promoting women entrepreneurs in the gems and jewelry sector through training programs, financial assistance, and networking opportunities, despite a 7.73 per cent drop in India's exports.
Smriti Irani suggests the gems and jewelry sector should collaborate with business schools to promote women's career opportunities, invest in skill development programs, and empower them, as this can contribute to economic growth and challenge traditional gender roles.
