A simple labourer’s fortunes took an extraordinary turn in Madhya Pradesh, India. Raju Gond, earning around US$ 9.50 or ₹800 (SGD 12.80) a day working in fields and diamond mines, stumbled upon a 19.22-carat diamond worth approximately US$95,500 or ₹80 lakh (SGD 128,000).
A Glimpse into Daily Struggles
Raju Gond, aged 40, alongside his younger brother Rakesh, works hard to support their extensive family. Their routine involves backbreaking work in both fields and government-leased diamond mines. This tireless effort is driven by the need to pay off a considerable debt and provide for their family.
Gond’s discovery came while working on a 690-square-foot plot in Krishna Kalyanpur. According to Live Mint, he knew it was a diamond when he unearthed the glittering stone. “It shone spectacularly; I knew it was a diamond right then!” Gond excitedly recounted.
The Evaluation and Validation
Following the discovery, the Gond brothers swiftly took the diamond to the local Panna Diamond Office for evaluation. Anupam Singh, the official diamond examiner, confirmed that it was indeed a white diamond of 19.22 carats. Singh noted that the city of Panna is renowned for its rich diamond reserves, adding credibility to the find.
According to NST, Anupam Singh noted that the government leases shallow mines to families who wish to search for gemstones. This initiative, supervised by local officials, involves an 11.5% royalty and a small tax on any find, with the remaining amount credited to the miner. This system aims to provide opportunities for locals to improve their living conditions through potential discoveries.
Building a New Life
For Gond, the diamond represents more than just financial gain. His immediate plan is to clear a debt of US$6,000 (SGD 8,000). Beyond this, he dreams of educating his children, building homes, and purchasing a tractor. His newfound fortune not only offers a way out of debt but also a future filled with hope and opportunities.
Back to the Mines
Despite their newfound wealth, the Gond brothers have not abandoned the mines. Driven by the hope of discovering more gemstones, they continue their daily search. “We woke up early and got out again. We are already in the shallow mine. We will find more diamonds!”
Watch the video here:
A labourer found a real diamond worth Rs 1 crore, Becomes its official owner
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