BIS Advances Plans for Phased Introduction of Mandatory Silver Hallmarking in India

India is moving closer to the introduction of mandatory silver hallmarking as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) evaluates the infrastructure, testing capacity, and regulatory framework required to support a nationwide rollout. The initiative is expected to strengthen consumer confidence, improve product traceability, and bring greater standardisation to the country’s silver market.

According to industry reports, BIS is currently assessing the preparedness of the hallmarking ecosystem before implementing compulsory compliance measures. While hallmarking of silver jewellery and artefacts has been available on a voluntary basis for nearly two decades, authorities are now exploring a structured transition toward mandatory certification.

A significant step in this direction was the introduction of the Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) system for silver articles in September 2025. The digital identification mechanism has enhanced traceability and transparency by enabling consumers and regulators to verify the authenticity and purity of hallmarked silver products more effectively.

Unlike gold, the silver market encompasses a broader range of products, including jewellery, religious items, decorative pieces, utensils, collectibles, and artefacts sold through diverse retail channels across urban and rural markets. This diversity presents unique challenges for regulators seeking to implement uniform quality standards across the sector.

BIS Director General Sanjay Garg has indicated that the standards body is adopting a cautious and systematic approach to the proposed transition. The focus remains on ensuring that all necessary systems, testing facilities, and compliance mechanisms are fully operational before any mandatory framework is enforced.

Rather than introducing the requirement across the country simultaneously, BIS is expected to adopt a phased implementation strategy. Such an approach would allow industry participants, manufacturers, retailers, and hallmarking centres sufficient time to adapt to the new compliance requirements while minimizing disruptions to trade.

At present, BIS has recognized approximately 230 Assaying and Hallmarking Centres (AHCs) equipped to test and certify silver jewellery and related products. Expanding this network and enhancing operational capacity are likely to be key priorities before compulsory hallmarking is introduced on a larger scale.

Industry observers believe mandatory silver hallmarking could prove transformative for the sector by promoting quality assurance, curbing the sale of substandard products, and increasing consumer trust. As preparations continue, the move signals India’s broader effort to strengthen standards and transparency across the precious metals industry.