The Government of India has brought 7 more districts under compulsory gold hallmarking in the sixth phase of the Gold Hallmarking Order. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) implements the scheme to guarantee purity, quality and consumer protection in gold jewellery. The Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number makes each item traceable and helps curb fraud. Coverage now extends to 380 districts, with 14K, 18K, 22K and 24K caratages included, while 9K remains voluntary.