The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is taking India’s research on diamond-based technologies to the global stage through its research group, India Centre for Lab Grown Diamond (InCent-LGD). The centre is spearheading advancements in quantum technologies, photonics, sensing and metrology using diamond materials.
Driving indigenous innovation in lab-grown diamonds
Established with the support of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, InCent-LGD is focused on positioning India as a global leader in the lab-grown diamond (LGD) industry by developing indigenous technologies.
The centre aims to make these innovations accessible to Indian start-ups and industry players, strengthening self-reliance in producing gem-quality and electronic-grade diamonds. This initiative is expected to enhance technological capabilities, boost exports and drive economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Why lab-grown diamonds matter
Lab-grown diamonds are produced through controlled technological processes rather than traditional mining. They possess the same physical, chemical and optical properties as natural diamonds, while offering greater suitability for advanced applications beyond gems and jewellery, particularly in high-tech sectors.
Global platform: ICDEM 2026
InCent-LGD recently hosted the International Conference on Diamond and Emergent Materials – Science and Technology (ICDEM 2026) from March 11–13, 2026, at the IIT Madras campus. The event served as a global forum to discuss advancements in diamond science, quantum technologies and next-generation electronic materials.
A key focus area of the conference was the application of diamond and carbon-based materials in energy, space and fusion technologies, leveraging properties such as superior thermal conductivity, radiation hardness and durability.
Strong global participation and collaboration
The conference witnessed participation from around 250 researchers, scientists and industry professionals from India and abroad, spanning materials science, electronics and quantum technology.
Organised in association with the University of Arizona and the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), it marked India’s first dedicated global event focused exclusively on diamond and emergent materials technologies.
Next-Gen research focus: AI, modelling and scalability
The conference also highlighted the integration of modelling, simulation and AI/ML-driven monitoring techniques to optimise diamond growth processes. These approaches are expected to improve precision, scalability and industrial applicability of diamond and carbonaceous materials.
Training programmes to build a skilled workforce
M S Ramachandra Rao, principal investigator, InCent-LGD, IIT Madras, said: “The mission of our research group is to establish a national centre with state-of-the-art facilities for lab-grown diamond technologies, enabling process development and optimisation using indigenously developed solutions. We also plan to introduce training programmes to build a skilled workforce for the LGD industry. ”
Policy support and economic impact
A five-year research grant of ₹242.96 crore was announced in the Union Budget 2023–24 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to establish this centre. The initiative is expected to accelerate start-up participation, create employment opportunities, boost LGD exports and play a significant role in driving India’s economic growth.