The Indian diamond merchants have requested the Chattisgarh government to supply rough diamonds directly to the Indian cutting and polishing industry. The rough diamonds from Orissa and Chattisgarh mines are currently being supplied to De Beers, the world's largest diamond merchant from South Africa, as per the existing supply agreement between the two sides. Rough diamonds from Orissa and Chattisgarh regions are comparable to the best rough diamonds available from the South African mines.According to Pravinbhai Nanavati, president, Surat Diamond Merchant's Association, the Orissa government has an agreement with De Beers or a certain period for the supply of rough diamonds. The same rough diamonds come back to the Indian merchants through Antwerp market in Belgium. A substantial portion of these Orissa diamond mines is now with the Chattisgadh, which has been carved out in the recent times. Following the Orissa government's agreement with De Beers, Chattisgarh also supplies rough diamonds to De Beers. Once this agreement for the supply of rough diamonds expires, Indian diamond cutting and polishing industry would wish that the Chattisgarh government offer rough diamonds to Indian diamond cutting and polishing industry.
NSTL
