BIS Introduces New Hallmarking Measures

The new measures were highlighted during an awareness and training programme organised by the BIS Vijayawada Branch Office in Tadepalligudem on Friday. The programme, held in association with the Tadepalligudem Jewellers Association, focused on the implementation of the mandatory hallmarking scheme and compliance with the provisions of the BIS Act, 2016, and Hallmarking Regulations.

T. Arjun, scientist-D and joint director of the BIS Vijayawada Branch Office, briefed jewellers on the latest developments in the hallmarking scheme, including the strengthening of silver hallmarking and revised operational procedures for jewellers and assaying and hallmarking centres. He also addressed participants' queries on hallmarking implementation.

Arjun pointed out that BIS has increased its monitoring and search efforts to tackle the misuse of BIS hallmarks and breaches of hallmarking rules. He said strict legal action is being initiated against non-compliant entities under the provisions of the BIS Act, 2016.

The programme covered mandatory hallmarking provisions for gold artefacts, consumer benefits, legal consequences for violations, applicable Indian Standards for gold and silver articles, and recent reforms relating to silver hallmarking. Participants were also given a demonstration of the BIS Care mobile application and its features.

An interactive session enabled jewellers to discuss practical challenges and seek clarifications on compliance and hallmarking procedures. Jewellers and members of jewellery associations from Tadepalligudem, Akividu, Bhimadole, Ganapavaram, Kamavarapukota, Koyyalagudem and Jangareddygudem attended the programme.

BIS said the initiative forms part of its continuing efforts to strengthen compliance with the hallmarking scheme, promote consumer awareness and encourage wider adoption of Indian Standards across the jewellery sector.