Gujarat Rejects 26,000 Diamond Workers’ Education Relief Applications

Surat | Gujarat — In a major setback for thousands of families, the Gujarat government has rejected 26,000 applications from diamond workers—both employed and unemployed—seeking financial assistance under the ₹13,500 per child education relief scheme. Out of the total 74,268 applications, only 47,599 were approved, leaving more than 30,000 children without relief.

The scheme, aimed at easing the burden of school fees for children of diamond workers, comes at a time when the industry is reeling under the impact of the 50% tariff imposed by the United States, its biggest export market.

Union demands reconsideration

The Diamond Workers’ Union Gujarat (DWUG) has urged the state government to reconsider its decision and approve all applications in the interest of workers’ children.

Bhavesh Tank, vice-president of DWUG, said, “There were many issues in the government GR issued for education relief to diamond workers. We only want to request the government to accept the 26,000 rejected applications for helping the workers’ children. The diamond industry is passing through one of its worst periods in history due to the 50% US tariff.”

Tank admitted that 1–2% of applications might have come from people not associated with the diamond trade but insisted that the majority are genuine cases.

“Even we, as a union, accepted the government’s decision. But now is the time for the state to show a big heart and stand with diamond workers during this crisis,” he added.

Uncertainty ahead for Surat’s diamond hub

Surat, the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing hub, employs nearly 8 lakh workers, many of whom are facing wage cuts, layoffs, and unemployment due to shrinking global demand. Education costs have become an additional burden on struggling families.

Tank further appealed to the government to extend the scheme and increase the relief amount, stressing:

“We are not aware of how long the 50% tariff will continue to affect Surat’s diamond industry. Continued education relief is essential to ensure children do not suffer because of the economic slowdown.”