Vasant Gajera
Vasant Gajera | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 25, 1954 Amreli, Gujarat, India |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, philanthropist |
| Known for | Founder of Laxmi Diamond Group |
Vasant Gajera, born on 25 May 1954, is an Indian entrepreneur and philanthropist, recognized as the founder of Laxmi Diamond Group, a company specializing in diamond manufacturing and exports.
Early life
Hailing from Amreli, Gujarat, as the son of Haribhai and Shantaben Gajera, he relocated to Surat in 1968 when he was 14 years old. After acquiring skills in diamond cutting and polishing, he established Laxmi Diamond in 1972.
Early career
Coming from an agricultural family, Gajera understood the difficulties faced by farmers in his area and chose to move to Surat. Following two years of experience in a jewellery factory, he ventured into launching his own diamond enterprise.
Founding of Laxmi Diamond
Beginning with a modest manufacturing facility in Surat in 1972, Gajera expanded the business alongside his brothers, eventually employing more than 4,000 individuals. In 2005, acclaimed diamond expert Sir Gabi Tolkowsky joined the company as a training consultant and spokesperson. Laxmi Diamond imports uncut diamonds and exports polished gems to markets across the United States, Far East, Europe, Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Since 1995, it has held sightholder status with the Diamond Trading Company (DTC). The company has been honored with the “Most Socially Responsible Company” award by GJEPC-India.
Philanthropy and Gajera Trust
Established on 15 January 1993, the Smt. Shantaben Haribhai Gajera Charitable Trust—commonly known as Gajera Trust—runs fully funded sustainable programs without relying on external donations. It provides education to over 40,000 children and focuses on advancing the nation through initiatives in education, healthcare, and community development. Gajera invests considerable time and resources into welfare projects, having founded numerous charitable organizations dedicated to education, health services, and social upliftment.
Education
Driven by a commitment to social progress, the Trust prioritizes educational opportunities for underprivileged groups, women’s empowerment, and healthcare access. It has founded institutions including Gajera Vidyabhavan, Gajera Shaikshanik Sankul, Laxmi Vidyapeeth, and Shantabaa Medical College. During the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, the Trust adopted innovative strategies to maintain remote learning continuity.
Healthcare
Gajera initiated various health-related programs such as blood donation drives, mobile diagnostic clinics, and eye screening camps aimed at empowering rural communities through timely medical intervention. In 2017, under the aegis of Gajera Trust, he founded Shantabaa Medical College and General Hospital located in Amreli. Since June 2018, this institution has operated as a Public-Private Partnership with the Government of Gujarat; it is affiliated with Saurashtra University and accredited by the Medical Council of India.
Vatsalyadham
On his birthday each year, Gajera established Vatsalyadham, a residential facility for disadvantaged children in Surat. Initially accommodating 56 children, it currently supports approximately 850 youngsters by providing nourishment, clothing, shelter, and quality education to foster their growth.
Controversies
On 22 March 2018, Vasant Gajera along with his brother Chuni were taken into custody amid allegations involving forged documents used to illegally acquire land. The complaint originated from a dispute dating back to 2003 concerning unauthorized construction on contested property. Following initial police reluctance to act, the high court mandated filing charges against Gajera on 5 April 2018. The accusations included forgery (Indian Penal Code sections 465, 467, 468), use of forged documents (section 471), criminal conspiracy (section 120b), wrongful restraint (section 341), and criminal trespass (section 447).
On 27 June 2018, authorities from Umra police requested cancellation of bail due to lack of cooperation from Gajera; consequently, an arrest warrant was issued the next day.