Diamond Industry Recession Brings Tough Times for Patidar Community

(Utkarsh Patel)

The slowdown in the diamond industry has brought deep worry into every heart of the Patidar community. From the villages of Saurashtra to the lanes of Surat, millions of Patidar families are closely tied to the sparkle of the diamond trade. 

For generations, farming families from Amreli, Bhavnagar, and Junagadh had shifted to diamond cutting and polishing, hoping for a brighter future. But today, the recession in the diamond sector has left these families facing a crisis. Their biggest concerns are now their children’s education, household expenses, and medical bills — struggles that are especially visible in Surat’s Varachha area, home to thousands of diamond artisans.

The Blow of Recession: Pain in Every Household

Since the start of 2025, the slowdown in the diamond industry has been clearly felt. Global demand for diamonds has fallen, lab-grown diamonds are becoming more popular, and international conflicts have made the situation worse. Work has shrunk in Surat’s diamond hubs like Varachha and Katargam, leaving lakhs of workers jobless. 

Dineshbhai Patel, a diamond worker, shares sadldly,"We used to work 12 hours a day, with aching backs and tired eyes, but at least we could run our households. Now, we haven’t been paid for two months. We have no money for school fees, rent, or even hospital bills."  

Dineshbhai’s story mirrors the painful reality faced by thousands of Patidar families today.

Children's Education: Dreams at Risk

The Patidar community has always placed high importance on education. Parents, even from small villages, worked hard to give their children the best schooling. But now, the dreams of many are collapsing. Without steady income, parents are struggling to pay school and college fees, and many students face the threat of dropping out.

Lataben, a mother from Varachha, says tearfully,"My son is in 10th grade. I dreamt of him becoming a doctor. But I don't even have Rs 15,000 for his school fees now. My husband's income has stopped, and running the house itself has become a battle."  Stories like Lataben’s are echoing across Patidar homes, clouding their hopes for their children's future.

Medical Expenses: The Cost of Survival

Along with financial troubles, medical costs have become a huge burden. Diamond workers often suffer from back pain, eye problems, and physical exhaustion due to their tough work. Now, with no income, even basic medical care is out of reach.

An elderly Patidar, Shantibhai, explains,"I need to visit the doctor because my breathing problems have worsened. But how can I afford Rs 5,000 for medicines and tests? My son used to earn from diamond work, but now he has no income either."  Many families are postponing treatment, risking even bigger health crises in the future.

The Daily Struggle: Survival Has Become Hard

For Patidar families who once ran their homes with dignity, even daily essentials have become difficult to afford. Rent, food, children's needs — everything feels out of reach. Many families are surviving on loans, but debt is piling up.

Nitaben, a housewife, says while crying,"We have no rice or lentils left. The children sleep hungry sometimes, and I feel helpless. How long can this go on?"

Finding a New Direction: Hope in Hard Times

Despite the deep crisis, hope is not lost. The Patidar community has always been known for facing challenges with strength. Now is the time to look beyond the diamond industry — to learn new skills, start small businesses, take up farming, or explore opportunities in the digital or service sectors.

The government also needs to step in. Relief packages, skill development programs, and affordable healthcare could give much-needed support. Community organizations must also help with education and daily needs.

A Moment of Inspiration: Small Courage, Big Dreams

Amid the gloom, some young Patidars are showing courage. Hareshbhai, a young man from Amreli, shifted from diamonds to starting modern farming in his village."At first, I was scared," he says,"but slowly, I’m beginning to earn again."

(The author is a renowned entrepreneur and social worker. The views expressed in the article are their personal opinions.)