On the occasion of World Water Day 2026, Dholakia Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Hari Krishna Group, marked a significant environmental milestone with the inauguration of the CIBJO Lake.
The event brought together global industry leaders, public representatives, and members of the Dholakia family and the community, reflecting a shared commitment to water conservation, biodiversity, and building a sustainable future.
A Tribute to 100 Years of Global Leadership
The CIBJO Lake was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri, President of CIBJO, as a tribute to the 100-year milestone of CIBJO – The World Jewellery Confederation. The inauguration was also held in the presence of Shri Kaushikbhai Kantibhai Vekariya, Hon’ble Minister of State, Government of Gujarat; Shri Bharatbhai Sutariya, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Amreli; Shri Janakbhai Talaviya, Hon’ble MLA, Lathi; Shri J.V. Kakadiya, MLA, Dhari; and Shri Hirabhai Solanki, MLA, Rajula.
Founded in 1926, the CIBJO has played a key role in promoting ethical practices, sustainability, and global cooperation across the jewellery supply chain.
Developed in 2023 in Luvariya village as part of the Gagadiya river rejuvenation initiative, the lake strengthens water security in Gujarat’s drought-prone Saurashtra region.
Spread across 15 acres with a storage capacity of 156 million litres (15.6 crore litres), it supports 5 villages, benefiting around 12,000 farmers. Improved water availability has enabled multi-cropping and increased groundwater levels, transforming the local ecosystem.
Global Presence and Reflections on Sustainability
The occasion featured inspiring addresses by global leaders. Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri reflected on the deeper significance of the initiative:
“Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ‘I have a dream.’ In the same way, Shri Savjibhai Dholakia had a dream — and today, we see that dream turning into reality. What was once barren land has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem of water, greenery, wildlife, and community life.”
He further added:
“What the Dholakia Foundation has achieved here is truly remarkable. This work stands as proof that industry can lead with conscience — that growth and responsibility can coexist.”
Shri Savjibhai Dholakia also addressed the gathering, emphasising the importance of giving back to nature and building long-term environmental initiatives for future generations.
He also added that in Kutch, across 13 talukas, lake development and water conservation initiatives are being undertaken through a collaborative effort between the villagers and the Foundation. Where farmers earlier relied on a single crop, improved water availability and rainfall have now enabled up to three cropping cycles annually.
The inauguration was attended by an esteemed international delegation, including:
CIBJO & Industry Leadership
Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri, President, CIBJO
Ms. Francesca Manfredi, Head of Sustainable Innovation – Watches & Jewellery, Kering Group
Distinguished Excellencies
H.E. Mrs. Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of Seychelles to India
H.E. Mr. Gilbert Shimane Mangole, High Commissioner of the Republic of Botswana to India
H.E. Mr. Ganbold Dambajav, Ambassador of Mongolia to India
H.E. Ms. Sena Latif, Ambassador of Romania to India
H.E. Ms. Aishath Azeema, High Commissioner of the Republic of Maldives
H.E. Ms. Chavanart Thangsumphant, Ambassador of Thailand to India
H.E. Mr. Felix Diallo, Ambassador of the Republic of Mali
H.E. Ms. Rath Many, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to India
H.E. Mrs. Ildjima Badda, Ambassador of the Republic of Chad in India
H.E. Mr. Erick Jean Marie Zinsou, Ambassador of the Republic of Benin to India
H.E. Mr. Zada Seidou, Ambassador of Niger to India
H.E. Mr. Yawo Edem Akpemado, Chargé d’Affaires / Head of Mission, High Commission of Togo
H.E. Mrs. Sylvie Michèle Mpon Tiek, Chargé d’Affaires, High Commission of the Republic of Cameroon in India
The session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks to all dignitaries and participants.
Towards a More Sustainable Tomorrow
The inauguration of the CIBJO Lake marks a meaningful step towards environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability. More than an infrastructure project, it stands as a symbol of collective action, community impact, and respect for nature—demonstrating that growth and responsibility can go hand in hand.
