The former chairman of the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), Pravin M. Nanavati, passed away on October 6, 2007 at the age of 80 years. He held his office between 1979-80. %% Nanavati was recognised for his contribution in being a founding member of the Gemmological Institute of India (GII), and also being one of the Council’s working committee members for almost two decades. He was among the first Indians to bring new technology including the use of laser for kerfing and sawing, to the cutting and polishing processes.