Labour ministry checks pulse of 'sick' diamond industry

SURAT: The Union Ministry of Labour and Employment is carrying out a detailed survey of the diamond industry to assess the level of recovery. A five-member team from the ministry visited the diamond units across the city, which have claimed to be plodding their way back to recovery from recession.

The survey was done by a team from the bureau of labour. They visited various diamond units and held discussions with members of the Surat Diamond Association.

"The main aim behind the survey is to get a clear view of the industry after the recession. The ministry wants to find out the number of defunct diamond units which have resumed operation," said an official from the state labour department. It also gathered data of the number of jobless workers who have got employment again.

Also, on their agenda was to find out diamond units which are not registered, the number of employees in a unit, raising skepticism by some in the industry. "We've provided information about the industry to the Centre, but don't know the real motive of the survey," said Surat Diamond Association president CP Vanani.

Meanwhile, according to the Centre, the labour ministry is trying to find ways to give boost to the diamond industry of Gujarat for its fast recovery. The state labour department is also doing its bit to accelerate the recovery of the industry. "We've recently written to the state government, asking for its guidance for renewal of registration of diamond units," the official said.