The State government is dedicated to resolving the concerns of goldsmiths and jewellery traders, Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi said in Belagavi on Tuesday (March 24).
He was speaking after inaugurating the ‘Suvarna Sammelana’, a conference of jewellery makers and traders, held at the Suvarna Soudha auditorium. The event was organised by the Daivadnya Jewellers Association and the All India Gems and Jewellery Domestic Council.
“Goldsmiths and traders have informed me about the difficulties and alleged harassment by certain authorities. I assure them that the government will take necessary steps to address these issues. We are aware that traditional jewellery artisans are facing challenges due to competition from large corporate brands and e-commerce platforms,” he said, adding that measures will be taken to support those in the unorganised sector.
He also urged participants to use such platforms to promote the traditional jewellery craftsmanship of Belagavi and nearby regions on a global stage while preserving its cultural heritage. “The gold industry plays an important role in the local economy, and the government is committed to ensuring a supportive environment for both traders and consumers,” he added.
Rajesh Rokade, president of the council, highlighted concerns over widespread fraud in the gold trade and called for stricter measures to prevent it. He also stressed the need for improved security at jewellery shops.
Belagavi South MLA Abhaya Patil said he would convene a meeting with officials to address legal and administrative hurdles faced by the gold trade and work towards resolving them.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan, along with association representatives including Manikanth Anvekar, Vaibhav Vernekar, Avinash Gupta, Chetan Kumar Mehta, Srikanth Kari, Gajanan Anavekar, Prashanth Revankar, Nagaraj Veranekar, Girish Jayanand Arkasali, Bhadash Bailahongal, and others, were present.
