National News
Strong response to mandatory silver HUID rollout
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has reported a major boost in adoption of Unique Identification (HUID) marking for silver jewellery. Since HUID became mandatory for hallmarked silver from 1st September 2025, over 17 lakh silver articles have already been registered within just three months.
The bulk of these, nearly 90%, are in purity grades 925 and 800. Traditional Indian pieces like payals (anklets) lead in numbers, followed by silver diyas (lamps), plates, and idols. The Southern region of India accounts for the highest hallmarking activity, with Western and Eastern regions trailing.

Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public distribution, said, “HUID in silver jewellery hallmarking marks a significant step forward in strengthening purity assurance and eliminating fake hallmarking practices. With HUID mandatory on voluntarily (BIS) Hallmarked Silver articles, each piece carries a unique 6-digit identification code that enables complete digital traceability and enhanced consumer protection. With over 17.35 lakh articles already hallmarked under the HUID system, the initiative is driving greater transparency, accountability and confidence among consumers and stakeholders.”
HUID marks consist of a laser-engraved six-digit alphanumeric code in addition to the standard BIS certification mark and purity grade. This brings silver jewellery traceability on par with gold, allowing buyers and regulators to verify each item digitally for authenticity.
Consumers can now use the BIS CARE app (available on Android and iOS) to check crucial details like purity, type of article, and the hallmarker’s credentials. This digital traceability aims to raise transparency and crack down on fake hallmarking.
National News
GJEPC Conducts Intensive Training for Customs Officials in Kolkata to Strengthen Gem & Jewellery Appraisal
Four-day programme enhances officers’ expertise in gemstone identification, metal purity testing, and valuation to support smoother export operations.
The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) Kolkata Regional Office successfully conducted a four-day Gold Appraiser and Valuer Training Programme from 1st to 4th December 2025 at the Kolkata Customs Air Cargo Commissionerate. The initiative aimed to enhance the technical capabilities of customs officers involved in handling gems, precious stones, gold, and jewellery shipments.
Led by Koushik SV, Head of Skill Development, GJEPC, the sessions covered critical areas including gemstone and diamond identification, precious metal purity testing using XRF technology, and essential assaying and valuation methodologies. The training was designed to equip officers with practical, hands-on skills to ensure accurate assessment and faster clearances.
Pankaj Parekh, Regional Chairman – East, GJEPC, emphasised that efficient export facilitation depends on knowledgeable and well-trained customs officers. He noted that capacity-building programmes like this significantly contribute to the industry’s ease of doing business.
The programme concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony graced by Chief Guest R. Srinivasa Naik, IRS, Chief Commissioner of Customs, and Guest of Honour Shri Shivaji Dange, IRS, Principal Commissioner of Customs (Airport & ACC). Joint Commissioner Shilpi Srivastava and senior officials were also present. In his remarks, Srinivasa Naik commended GJEPC for organising the initiative and encouraged more such training efforts to enhance operational efficiency at the cargo shed.
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