In Surat, India, the heart of the global diamond-cutting industry, the intertwining struggles of migrant workers reveal not just economic turmoil but also the resilience of families striving for better futures. This narrative, embodied by Alpesh Bhai, encapsulates a broader story of aspiration, disruption, and the sacrifices necessary in pursuit of education and stability. The recent upheaval in the diamond market, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, has posed significant challenges for these workers, urging a reevaluation of support systems amidst an evolving socio-economic landscape.
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Surat, India – Alpesh Bhai, a dedicated father, took a significant step in 2018 by enrolling his three-year-old daughter in an English-language private school, a choice that seemed almost impossible given his modest upbringing in a rural village in Gujarat. Raised in a household dependent on farming small plots of fennel and cumin, he had experienced the scarcity of resources, with public schools lacking English instruction and adequate teaching staff. His aspirations for his children reflected a universal desire among many Indian families: the hope for secure government employment aided by a strong educational background.
As he transitioned into the diamond cutting sector, Alpesh’s financial circumstances improved significantly. The bustling city of Surat, known as the “diamond capital of the world,” employs over 600,000 workers and handles nearly 80% of the planet’s diamond polishing. With a monthly income of 35,000 rupees (0), which allowed him to provide for his children, Alpesh felt a newfound sense of stability. However, that sense of security was quickly challenged by external factors. The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 disrupted diamond supply chains, resulting in layoffs and reduced wages within the industry. Alpesh’s monthly earnings dwindled to 18,000 rupees (0), and the unaffordable 25,000 rupees (0) annual school fee ultimately forced him to withdraw both of his daughters from private schooling.
Compounding these financial stresses, United States tariffs on diamonds intensified the downturn, resulting in additional layoffs and forcing Alpesh to abandon the aspirations he held for his children’s education. “It feels like I have returned to where I started,” he lamented, emphasizing the impact of these economic challenges on his family’s future.
The ripple effects of the diamond industry’s instability have been felt by many, leading to a noticeable exodus of families who can no longer afford the cost of living in Surat. Many like Shyam Patel have returned to their villages, remaining without reliable work or income. According to union estimates, about 50,000 workers have departed from Surat in recent months, leaving their dreams of upward mobility in limbo.
As educational enrolments plummet amid financial strain, the education system faces unprecedented challenges. An alarming number of students have withdrawn mid-session due to their parents’ economic hardships, creating a bleak future for many young learners. Reportedly, in the previous academic year alone, 600 students left school due to family relocations or job losses.
In response to the crises faced by diamond workers, the Gujarat government introduced an assistance package aimed at covering school fees for children of unemployed diamond polishers—however, the rigid eligibility criteria have left many workers without aid. With over 90,000 applications received, the scheme has only managed to assist a fraction of the affected children, highlighting the urgent need for improved support systems to prevent further hardship.
Despite significant challenges, the indomitable spirit of families like Alpesh’s persists. Many workers are pinning their hopes on a recovery in the diamond market, believing that gaining skills in diamond craftsmanship may offer a pathway out of their current struggles. As Alpesh reflects on his family’s situation, he remains determined to pursue a brighter future for his daughters, illustrating the resilience and hope that persist even amid overwhelming odds.
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