IIM Ahmedabad, GJC Launch GEMLEAD Focus 2026 to Prepare Next-Generation Jewellery Leaders

Key Highlights

IIM Ahmedabad and GJC have launched the second edition of GEMLEAD Focus 2026.
The residential executive programme is being held from August 31 to September 3, 2026.
92 jewellers are participating in the on-campus leadership programme.
The curriculum focuses on artificial intelligence, consumer psychology, family business governance and leadership development.
The highest-rated module from the previous edition—Professionalisation of Family Firms (4.8/5)—has been expanded based on participant feedback.
Pankaj R. Patel (Zydus Lifesciences) and Sandeep Engineer (Astral Polytechnik) will deliver leadership sessions.
GJC says the programme is designed to prepare next-generation jewellery entrepreneurs for future business challenges while preserving the legacy of family-owned enterprises.

The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) and the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) have launched the second edition of GEMLEAD Focus 2026, a four-day residential executive leadership programme designed to prepare the next generation of India’s jewellery entrepreneurs and family business leaders. The programme, which runs from August 31 to September 3, has brought together 92 jewellers for advanced management training at the IIM Ahmedabad campus.

Jointly curated by IIM Ahmedabad and GJC, the executive masterclass is designed to help jewellery businesses navigate rapid industry transformation driven by artificial intelligence, changing consumer behaviour, sustainability, global competition, and evolving business models. The programme places particular emphasis on strengthening family-run jewellery enterprises through professional governance, leadership development and future-ready decision-making.

Unlike a conventional management course, GEMLEAD Focus 2026 has been shaped by feedback from participants of its inaugural edition. GJC said the previous programme revealed a strong demand for more practical, advanced learning, with the session on Professionalisation of Family Firms emerging as the highest-rated module, earning a 4.8 out of 5 participant rating.

The curriculum has therefore been expanded to include deeper leadership discussions, immersive business learning and direct interaction with accomplished industry leaders. Participants will also hear from Pankaj R. Patel, Chairman of Zydus Lifesciences, and Sandeep Engineer, Managing Director of Astral Polytechnik Ltd., who will share their leadership experiences during interactive sessions designed to provide practical business insights.

Highlighting the importance of preparing family businesses for long-term success, GJC Chairman Rajesh Rokde said, “The Indian jewellery industry has a strong foundation of family-owned and family-led enterprises. Preserving the values, relationships and legacy of these businesses while introducing professional systems and governance is one of the most important challenges for the next generation. One of the most important objectives of GEMLEAD Focus is to prepare the next generation of jewellery entrepreneurs. Also, by integrating cutting-edge insights on artificial intelligence, consumer psychology, and the professionalisation of family-run enterprises, this programme will empower our members to lead with clarity, innovate with confidence, and build resilient, future-ready businesses.”

Reinforcing GJC’s long-term vision for industry leadership, Vice Chairman Avinash Gupta said, “This landmark initiative is being driven by the leadership and vision of All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council. We are delighted to collaborate for the second time with IIMA on GemLead. In today’s rapidly changing environment, jewellery businesses must look beyond products, pricing and traditional relationships, since it is a vital contributor to India’s economy, and this programme is tailored to strengthen leadership, enhance managerial excellence, and prepare industry leaders for future challenges.”

Ketan Chokshi, Convenor of GemLead, said the collaboration combines GJC’s industry expertise with IIM Ahmedabad’s globally recognised academic excellence to create a programme specifically tailored for jewellery businesses. He added, “While GJC continues to champion industry growth through policy advocacy, skill development, and the promotion of best business practices, IIM Ahmedabad stands globally recognised for its academic rigour, pioneering research, and its legacy of shaping leaders across diverse sectors. For a family business, success is not only about increasing turnover and profitability. It is also about creating long-term enterprise value and preserving and growing family wealth across generations. GEMLEAD 2026 brings together these strengths to deliver a transformative learning experience exclusively for the gems and jewellery industry.”

GJC said initiatives such as GEMLEAD reflect its broader commitment to promoting industry growth through policy advocacy, skill development and the adoption of best business practices, while preparing future-ready leaders capable of navigating the evolving landscape of India’s gems and jewellery industry.