Page 17 - Bullion World Issue 10 Volume 05 October 2025

IGC 2025: Where The World Meets India, Seminar Highlights Bullion World | Volume 5 | Issue 10 | October 2025

Technical Session-2 Hallmarking of Gold
Jewellery in India - Regulatory Perspective

Mr K. Chandan Rao – Regulatory Perspective on Hallmarking

Mr Chandan Rao outlined India’s BIS Hallmarking scheme
evolution, regulatory details, and ongoing digitization efforts. The
scheme mandates hallmarking for various gold and silver articles,
ensuring consumer protection by enforcing strict purity standards
without tolerance for negative deviations. Expansion milestones,
exemptions, and new features like Hallmark Unique Identification
(HUID) and mobile-based verification were highlighted.

Key Points:
• Hallmarking evolved from voluntary to mandatory, covering most districts.
• Covers gold and silver, with certified designs, and grave exemptions.
• BIS certification processes include audits, surveillance, and market testing.
• Digital integration: HUID, mobile app verifications, and automated XRFS.
• Reflects commitment to transparency and consumer confidence.
• Detailed listing of licensed refiners showcases wide national coverage.

Technical Session-3: Gold Refining Challenges in gold and silver refining

Mr Ankur Srivastava – Challenges in Gold and Silver Refining

Mr Ankur Srivastava explored refining methodologies and the
associated technical, environmental, and safety challenges faced
by modern refineries. He emphasized the critical importance
of controlling chemical, physical, and procedural variables to
achieve the highest purity levels in gold and silver production. His
presentation outlined the evolving regulatory environment and how
refiners must balance productivity with environmental stewardship.
Drawing from MMTC-PAMP’s operational experience, Mr
Srivastava illustrated best practices for emission control, process
optimization, and waste minimization. He also highlighted industry
trends toward automation and sustainable refining methods that
align with international benchmarks and ensure compliance with
green manufacturing standards.

Key Points:
• Discussed pyrometallurgical, chemical, and electrolytic refining techniques.
• Highlighted process control challenges: sampling, impurity removal, and electrolyte management.
• Flooded with complex impurity profiles including PGMs and base metals.
• Environmental aspects include emissions control, wastewater treatment, and stringent regulations.
• Stressed high safety standards: PPE, ventilation, and emergency protocols.
• Promoted Acid-less Separation technology to reduce chemical use and pollution.

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