2012-03-19
HIMALAYAN NEWS SERVICE
Lack of skilled manpower has hit the gems and precious stones sector in the country, though Nepal is rich in mineral resources,” according to the experts.
“It has failed to showcase itself in the international market, they said, asking the government to develop manpower and create mechanism to extract mineral resources that could propel grow-th. From export of 200,000 kg raw gems stone, some 5,000 small gems industries could provide 25,000 direct employments and around 100,000 indirect employments, according to them.
“The precious stones are currently exported to India first and imported in the form of cut-stones,” said head of Department of Industrial Engineering at Thapathali Campus Shambhu Yadav, during a workshop on ‘Prospects and Constraints of Mineral and Gem Stone sector in Nepal’ organised by Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI).
“Development of skilled manpower is key,” he said, adding that a three months training could produce a skilled manpower, who could get employment back home.
According to Geology Department Reader Dr Lalu Poudel, the country has imported around Rs 130.37 billion worth mines and mineral related goods in fiscal year 2009-10. However, due to lack of well equipped laboratory which can certify purity of gems and other precious stones, the country has not been able to take advantage from its huge natural resources. The minerals like limestone, marble, granite, slate, phyllite, dolomite, magnesite, talc, graphite, hematite and gemstones like tourmaline, garnet, aquamarine, bluekyanite, ruby, sapphire and quartz are abundant in Nepal.
source: THT
see the original article here:Gems‚ precious stones neglected
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