THE GRAND UNVEILING OF VAJRA INDUSTRY RESEARCH AND ACADEMIC MEET (VAIRAM) 2025 organised by GJEPC, IIT Madras and supported by Govt of India
Today marks the Grand Inauguration of Vajra Industry Research and Academic Meet (Vairam) 2025 an initiative by GJEPC and InCent LGD IIT Madras at IITM Research Park, Chennai, by Prof. V Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, Prof M S Ramachandra Rao, InCent-LGD, IIT Madras, Mr. Manish Jiwani, Co Convener, LGD Committee, GJEPC and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC among other dignitaries and industry experts.
The workshop features several panel discussions. “Beyond Gems: Next-Generation Applications of OLab-Grown Diamonds” explores LGDs’ potential in various industries beyond jewellery. “Lab-Grown Diamond Growth and Treatment Recipes and Challenges” delves into the intricacies of CVD and HPHT methods. “Diamond Quality Checks and Certification” addresses the crucial need for standardised quality control for gems, jewellery, and seeds. “Lab Grown Diamond Machines and Processing Equipment” will highlight the importance of indigenous equipment manufacturing to bolster India’s self-reliance. The workshop has drawn 150 + participants from the industry.
Topic – Introduction to InCent – LGD
Speaker: Prof. M S Ramachandra Rao, InCent-LGD, IIT Madras
Key Takeaways:
- India is aiming to become the world’s leading producer of lab-grown diamonds (LGDs), capitalizing on the rapidly growing market.
- InCent-LGD focuses on five key areas: MPCVD, plasma generation, HPHT, analytical labs, and training.
- The center has developed prototypes and growth recipes for HPHT and CVD, but faces challenges like limited industry collaboration and reliance on imported materials.
- InCent-LGD is working on developing indigenous MPCVD and HPHT equipment within a year.
- The center is exploring various LGD applications in fields such as AI, 5G power electronics, quantum photonics, and water purification.
- IIT Madras has launched a Skill India course on LGD technology to address skill gaps.
- Continued focus on high-purity gases, certified seeds, and advanced growth recipes is essential for India’s growth in the LGD sector.
Topic: Beyond Gems – Next-Gen Applications of Lab-Grown Diamonds
Key Takeaways
- Diamonds being chemically inert, LGDs hold immense potential in industries beyond gems, including electronics, water treatment, aerospace, defence engineering, precision optics, and manufacturing.
- Discussions covered LGDs in high-performance cutting tools, thermal management systems, quantum computing, and advanced sensors.
- LGDs offer superior hardness, thermal conductivity, and chemical stability, making them ideal for next-gen technologies.
- Collaboration between academia and industry is key to unlocking new opportunities and positioning India as a global LGD innovation hub.
