Ludhiana, May 15 -- The recent increase in customs duty on gold and silver, coupled with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal urging people to avoid purchasing gold for a year, has begun impacting jewellery businesses and customer sentiment in Ludhiana, especially during the ongoing wedding season.

Local jewellers said the sudden spike in gold prices, reportedly rising by nearly Rs.8,000 within a single day, has created panic among buyers and significantly reduced customer footfall in jewellery showrooms.

Jeweller Mala Dhanda described the situation as a major setback for small jewellers and middle-class families.

"People are scared after hearing the news and seeing the sudden jump in rates. Most customers visiting our store are now o...