As of April 2, 2026, the Government of India has further tightened the net on uncertified gold sales by launching the sixth phase of mandatory hallmarking. This expansion brings the total number of districts under the mandate to 380.
New Districts Included
The latest update adds seven key districts to the mandatory list, ensuring consumers in these regions receive guaranteed purity:
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Rupnagar (Punjab)
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Banda (Uttar Pradesh)
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Beed (Maharashtra)
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Plus four additional districts nationwide.
Since the inception of this initiative in 2021, over 60 crore gold items have been successfully hallmarked with a unique tracking code.
4 Essential Checks for Gold Buyers
When purchasing gold jewellery in 2026, ensure these four marks are visible on the item (usually via a magnifying glass) to guarantee you are getting what you pay for:
1. The BIS Logo
The official mark of the Bureau of Indian Standards (a triangular icon) indicates that the piece has been verified by a licensed lab.
2. Purity Grade and Fineness
The jewellery must clearly state its caratage. Under the 2026 amendment, hallmarking is now mandatory for 14K, 18K, 20K, 22K, 23K, and 24K.
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24K995: 24 Carat (99.5% pure)
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22K916: 22 Carat (91.6% pure)
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18K750: 18 Carat (75.0% pure)
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14K585: 14 Carat (58.5% pure)
Note: 9K hallmarking remains available but is currently voluntary.
3. Six-Digit Alphanumeric HUID
The Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) is a unique code assigned to every single piece of jewellery. This ensures traceability and prevents malpractice.
4. Identification Marks
Look for the specific mark of the Assaying & Hallmarking Centre where the gold was tested, as well as the Jeweller’s Identification Mark.
How to Verify Your Gold Instantly
You no longer have to take a jeweler’s word at face value. You can use the BIS CARE mobile app to verify your purchase:
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Open the app and select the “Verify HUID” feature.
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Enter the six-digit alphanumeric code found on your jewellery.
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The app will display the jeweler’s registration name, the date of hallmarking, and the purity of the gold.
The Bottom Line: With gold prices remaining volatile amid global conflicts, ensuring the purity of your investment is critical. Hallmarking protects the consumer from “under-caratage” and ensures that when you eventually sell or exchange your gold, you receive the full market value for its actual purity.
