HRD Antwerp has launched its internationally recognised diamond, gemmology and jewellery education programmes in India, marking a step towards strengthening professional training standards in the domestic jewellery sector. The launch took place in Mumbai on January 13, 2026.

The inauguration was attended by Frank Geerkens, Consul General of Belgium in Mumbai, and Mehul N. Shah, Vice President, Bharat Diamond Bourse, reflecting institutional and industry support for the initiative and ongoing India–Belgium ties in the diamond trade.

The launch coincided with the first official visit to India by Paul De Wachter, CEO, HRD Antwerp. He was accompanied by Stanley De Belie, Chief Operating Officer, and Philip Baeten, Chief Financial Officer, underlining the organisation’s focus on the Indian market.

HRD Antwerp’s India leadership team present at the event included Ramakant Mitkar, Managing Director; Chandrakant Narkar, Sales Director; and Anand Gusani, Global Education Manager, who will oversee programme delivery and growth in the country.

The programmes will be conducted at HRD Antwerp’s education facility in Mumbai, enabling students, retailers, entrepreneurs and professionals to access globally benchmarked education locally. The curriculum covers diamond grading and identification, gemmology, gemstone treatments, small diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and jewellery market knowledge.

Speaking at the launch, Paul De Wachter said, “India plays a central role in the global diamond and jewellery industry. By introducing HRD Antwerp’s education programmes in India, we aim to support the development of skilled professionals who meet the highest international standards.”

Mehul N. Shah said, “Access to structured, internationally aligned education programmes will play an important role in strengthening professional standards and supporting the industry’s long-term development.”