Those employed in the gems and jewellery industry get the lowest salary across the manufacturing sector, a new study has found.

According to a study conducted by Assocham and Thought Arbitrage Research Institute, the average salary in gems and jewellery industry at ₹2.52 lakh per annum is lower than other manufacturing industries that are becoming more lucrative for young workers.

“Inadequate working conditions and limited compliance with health and safety standards have also led to low interest in the industry,” it said.

Other sectors — pharmaceuticals (₹5.09 lakh), capital goods (₹4.94 lakh), electronics (₹4.43 lakh), chemical (₹3.97 lakh), automotive (₹3.77 lakh), construction material (₹2.88 lakh), metal and metal products (₹2.54 lakh) — account for better pay.

Health hazards  The study pointed out that excessive and prolonged exposure to lethal chemicals and gases can lead to ailments such as lung tissue damage, kidney damage and lung cancer, thereby making the industry less attractive and not an employer of choice for the younger generation.  “Manual methods of cutting, polishing, manufacturing and designing of gems and jewellery need to be substituted with high-end machines and software by imparting practical training to the youth in use of laser machines and other modern techniques prevalent globally,” DS Rawat, Secretary-General of Assocham, said.

Safety kits  Investment in vocational training institutes will provide a path to attract young talent to the sector.  The study has further suggested providing safety kits with daily-use equipment such as goggles, gas masks, gloves, lab coats to the workers.

This can help reduce impact on workers’ health, attract growing young population and retain existing workforce, thereby resulting in low labour turnover, improved efficiency and productivity and high output, it added.

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