CIBJO Celebrates 100 Years with Water Sustainability Project in Gujarat

Marking its centenary, the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) commemorated the milestone by inaugurating a freshwater lake in Gujarat, highlighting the industry’s commitment to sustainable development.

Named Lake CIBJO, the project was unveiled on World Water Day 2026 (March 22) near Luvariya village in the drought-affected Saurashtra region. Developed by the Dholakia Foundation—the philanthropic arm of the Hari Krishna Group—the lake is part of the broader Gagadiya river rejuvenation initiative aimed at enhancing water security in the region.

Covering 15 acres, the lake has the capacity to store 156 million litres of water. It is expected to benefit five surrounding villages and support nearly 12,000 farmers by boosting groundwater levels and enabling multiple cropping cycles.

The inauguration ceremony was led by CIBJO President Gaetano Cavalieri, along with Savjibhai Dholakia. The event was attended by Gujarat Minister of State Kaushikbhai Kantibhai Vekariya, Member of Parliament Bharatbhai Sutariya, members of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, as well as diplomatic representatives and industry leaders.

Cavalieri described the initiative as a meaningful way to mark CIBJO’s 100-year legacy, emphasizing how the jewellery sector can contribute to societal well-being. He noted that the project has transformed once-barren land into a flourishing ecosystem that supports water availability, greenery, wildlife, and local communities.

Dholakia underscored the importance of sustained environmental efforts, pointing out that collaborative water conservation initiatives have enabled farmers—previously reliant on a single crop—to cultivate up to three cycles annually.

With water scarcity continuing to pose a major challenge in India—where around 600 million people face high to extreme water stress—initiatives like Lake CIBJO aim to strengthen resilience and promote sustainable livelihoods. Cavalieri added that the project reflects how industries can align growth with responsibility while driving positive environmental and social change.