Munish Sood
Mandi
The annual convention of the Swarnkar Welfare Association, Mandi, was held here on Friday with the association deciding to increase the monthly membership fee by Rs 100 and laying emphasis on compliance with the latest government regulations, particularly those relating to silver hallmarking.
The convention, chaired by association president Ashutosh Pal, also discussed the changing business environment and the need for jewellers to adapt to new practices and regulations. General secretary Gaurav Chopra presented the annual report, outlining the activities undertaken by the association during the past year and apprising members of the latest government norms applicable to the trade.
Silver hallmarking figured prominently during the deliberations, with members being urged to remain updated about the regulatory requirements.
The meeting also reviewed the functioning and discipline of the association. Some members who were found to be violating the association’s rules have been removed from its membership, it was stated. Pal called upon members to maintain unity and work collectively for strengthening the organisation.
Patron Mahesh Puri appreciated the present executive for carrying forward the activities of the association in a smooth manner. Patron Sardar Sarv Sukhpal Singh Malhotra stressed the need for members to adapt to the changing business environment, while Patron Bhagwant Singh suggested expanding the association’s organisational structure to the district level.
The convention began with a two-minute silence in memory of those who lost their lives in recent tragedies in Nepal and different parts of India.
Pal also announced that the association would observe its annual holiday from December 25, 2026, to January 1, 2027.
Chief Patron Jitendra Chopra, Patron Mahesh Puri, Patron Sardar Sarv Sukhpal Singh Malhotra, Patron Bhagwant Singh and Senior Vice-President of Mandi Beopar Mandal Jitendra Puri attended the convention.
Senior Vice-President Sant Malhotra, Bhaskar Chopra, Vice-Presidents Sanjay Soni and Vipin Soni, Press Secretary Sardar Raja Singh, Treasurer Vikas Sekhri and Kotli Coordinator Ravi Soni were also present.
