The Ministry of Communications on May 16, 2025 has officially notified the Telecommunications (Framework to Notify Standards, Conformity Assessment and Certification) Rules, 2025, under the powers of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. These new rules replace parts of the outdated Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951, and establish a modern framework for standards, safety, and certification of telecom equipment in India.
Purpose of the Rules
The newly notified rules aim to:
- Provide a comprehensive system for notifying technical and safety standards.
- Define the conformity assessment process for telecom devices.
- Ensure compliance before equipment is sold, deployed, or used in India.
Key Highlights
- Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) and National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS) are designated as the Appropriate Authorities for issuing and managing standards.
- All notified standards and certifications will be managed through an official online portal to ensure transparency and accessibility.
- A 60-day consultation process is required before finalizing standards, except in urgent policy situations where provisional standards can be issued.
Certification Process
- All telecom equipment must undergo conformity assessment by recognized laboratories, known as Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs).
- CABs can be Indian or foreign labs (excluding those from countries sharing a land border with India) accredited under international standards (e.g., ILAC).
- Certification must be renewed periodically, and equipment without a valid certificate cannot be sold, deployed, or used.
Exemptions
The following are exempt from conformity assessment:
- Equipment imported for R&D, testing, demonstration, or under a regulatory sandbox.
- Equipment imported for personal use.
- Equipment that is unchanged in model and brand from previously certified devices or involves minor label changes.
Enforcement and Compliance
- Telecom service providers are required to notify users using uncertified equipment and suspend services if users fail to comply.
- The Appropriate Authority can inspect facilities, enforce standards, and initiate legal action for non-compliance, including seizure or destruction of unauthorized equipment.
Digital Implementation
A centralized online portal will be launched to:
- Manage certification processes
- Publish recognized CABs
- Display compliance notices
- Facilitate fee payments and compliance tracking
These new rules represent a major step toward enhancing the security, reliability, and regulatory oversight of India’s growing telecom ecosystem. The government’s approach ensures industry consultation while enabling swift action when needed.
