From Surat to Saurashtra: A Two-Day Engagement Uniting Global Leadership, Sustainability, and Community Impact

Surat to Dudhala, Gujarat | March 21–22, 2026: Hari Krishna Group had the privilege of hosting a distinguished international delegation across two thoughtfully planned days; beginning with an immersive visit to its diamond manufacturing facilities in Surat, followed by a landmark environmental initiative at Dudhala village on the occasion of World Water Day. This engagement brought together global leadership, diplomatic voices, and sustainability advocates, creating a meaningful exchange between industry practices and environmental responsibility.

A Close Look at Industry Practices and Global Alignment

On March 21, the visit commenced at Hari Krishna Exports‘ advanced manufacturing campus, led by Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri, President of CIBJO, The World Jewellery Confederation, alongside Francesca Manfredi, Head of Sustainable Innovation – Watches & Jewellery at Kering Group. Accompanied by an esteemed group of High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and Heads of Mission, including:

Distinguished Excellencies

• ✦ H.E. Mrs. Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of Seychelles to India
• ✦ H.E. Mr. Gilbert Shimane Mangole, High Commissioner of the Republic of Botswana to India
• ✦ H.E. Mr. Ganbold Dambajav, Ambassador of Mongolia to India
• ✦ H.E. Ms. Sena Latif, Ambassador of Romania to India
• ✦ H.E. Ms. Aishath Azeema, High Commissioner of the Republic of Maldives
• ✦ H.E. Ms. Chavanart Thangsumphant, Ambassador of Thailand to India
• ✦ H.E. Mr. Felix Diallo, Ambassador of the Republic of Mali
• ✦ H.E. Ms. Rath Many, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to India
• ✦ H.E. Mrs. Ildjima Badda, Ambassador of the Republic of Chad in India
• ✦ H.E. Mr. Erick Jean Marie Zinsou, Ambassador of the Republic of Benin to India
• ✦ H.E. Mr. Zada Seidou, Ambassador of Niger to India
• ✦ H.E. Mr. Yawo Edem Akpemado, Chargé d’Affaires / Head of Mission, High Commission of Togo
• ✦ H.E. Mrs. Sylvie Michèle Mpon Tiek, Chargé d’Affaires, High Commission of the Republic of Cameroon in India

The delegation experienced the complete journey of diamond manufacturing, gaining insights into advanced infrastructure, ethical sourcing, traceability systems, and the company’s people-first philosophy.

The interaction reflected a shared understanding that the future of the diamond and jewellery sector rests on strong foundations of transparency, responsible sourcing, and continuous innovation. It also reinforced the importance of collaboration between global institutions and industry leaders in shaping a responsible and forward-looking diamond value chain.

From Industry Insight to Environmental Commitment

On March 22, the delegations travelled to Dudhala village for the inauguration of the CIBJO Lake, led by the Dholakia Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Hari Krishna Group. Inaugurated by Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri, as a tribute to the 100-year milestone of CIBJO, World Jewellery Confederation, the initiative reflected a long-term commitment to water conservation and sustainable development. The inauguration was also held in the presence of Shri Kaushikbhai Kantibhai Vekariya, Hon’ble Minister of State, Government of Gujarat; Shri Bharatbhai Sutariya, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Amreli; Shri Janakbhai Talaviya, Hon’ble MLA, Lathi; Shri J.V. Kakadiya, MLA, Dhari; and Shri Hirabhai Solanki, MLA, Rajula.

Developed in 2023 in Luvariya village as part of the Gagadiya River Rejuvenation Initiative, the lake strengthens water security in Gujarat’s drought-prone Saurashtra region. Spread over 15 acres, with a storage capacity of 156 million litres (15.6 crore litres), it serves 5 villages, benefiting around 12,000 farmers. Improved water availability has enabled multi-cropping and increased groundwater levels, transforming the local ecosystem.

Voices That Reinforced Purpose and Responsibility

The occasion featured thoughtful reflections from global leadership, bringing deeper meaning to the initiative. Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri drew a powerful parallel in his address, stating, “Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ‘I have a dream.’ In the same way, Shri Savjibhai Dholakia had a dream — and today, we see that dream turning into reality. What was once barren land has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem of water, greenery, wildlife, and community life.”

Our visionary founder, Savji Dholakia, addressed the gathering with a grounded perspective, emphasising the importance of giving back to nature and building long-term environmental initiatives for future generations. He also shared insights from ongoing efforts in Kutch, where lake development and water conservation work across multiple talukas—carried out in collaboration with local communities and Dholakia Foundation- has improved water availability and rainfall support.

A Unified Message Across Two Days

The presence of global dignitaries, policymakers, and industry leaders across both days reflected a shared spirit of dialogue and responsibility. From observing precision-driven diamond manufacturing to witnessing tangible environmental impact, the engagement presented a unified message: when craftsmanship, purpose, and collaboration come together, the industry can contribute meaningfully to both economic progress and sustainable development.

About Hari Krishna Group

Hari Krishna Group, established in 1992, is a globally recognised diamond manufacturing company known for its ethical practices and commitment to excellence. With a 45-acre facility in Surat and over 10,000 employees, the company exports diamonds to more than 108 countries worldwide.

Through Dholakia Foundation, it actively drives initiatives in water conservation, rural development, education, and community welfare, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and responsible growth.