Did the DoT Really Slash Security Test Fees by Up to 95% to Foster Telecom Innovation?
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Synopsis
In a bold move to promote innovation in the telecom sector, the Department of Telecommunications has slashed security test evaluation fees by up to 95%. This decision is set to ease the financial burden on manufacturers and foster a more competitive landscape for domestic players, especially MSMEs.
Key Takeaways
- DoT reduces security test fees by up to 95%.
- New fee structure effective from August 1, 2025.
- Exemptions for government R&D institutes until March 31, 2028.
- Encourages innovation and competitiveness in the telecom sector.
- Mandatory testing for specific telecom products.
New Delhi, Aug 4 (NationPress) The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) made a significant announcement on Monday, revealing a staggering reduction of up to 95% in the security test evaluation fees for telecom and ICT products.
The fees for security test evaluation, which previously ranged between Rs 2,00,000 and Rs 3,50,000 based on the equipment category, have now been dramatically lowered.
Under the new fee structure, costs for Group A equipment have been slashed to Rs 10,000 from Rs 200,000, Group B to Rs 20,000 from Rs 200,000, Group C to Rs 30,000 from Rs 250,000, and Group D to Rs 50,000 from Rs 350,000.
This change is set to significantly alleviate the financial burden on manufacturers of telecom and ICT products, particularly benefiting domestic players.
Effective from August 1, 2025, this new fee structure under the Communication Security Certification Scheme (ComSec) aims to make the security certification process more accessible for domestic manufacturers, especially MSMEs, as stated by the Ministry of Communications.
Additionally, all security test evaluation fees for applications submitted by government R&D institutes such as CDOT and CDAC will be entirely waived until March 31, 2028, as part of a broader initiative to promote innovation in public sector research.
The DoT has also simplified the security testing and compliance processes for Highly Specialized Equipment (HSE) and End-of-Sale/End-of-Life telecom products.
Currently, products like IP Routers, Wi-Fi CPEs, and 5G Core SMF are subject to mandatory security testing, whereas Optical Line Terminals and Optical Networking Terminals are eligible for voluntary certification, with fee exemptions available until August 31, 2025.
The National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS), under the DoT, has been assigned the responsibility of implementing security testing and certification under this scheme. According to the updated guidelines, OEMs, importers, and dealers wanting to sell or use telecom equipment in India must ensure their products undergo security testing and certification as per the ComSec scheme.
For the security testing and certification of telecom/ICT equipment under the ComSec scheme, OEMs, importers, and dealers will be required to pay a security test evaluation fee.
This fee reduction is anticipated to enhance the competitiveness of Indian telecom manufacturers, drive local innovation, and create a more straightforward entry pathway for both domestic and international Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
Point of View
It's evident that the DoT's decision to slash security test evaluation fees signals a proactive approach towards fostering innovation within the telecom sector. This strategy not only alleviates financial pressures on manufacturers but also enhances India's position in the global telecom arena, promoting competition and technological advancement.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the DoT to reduce security test fees?
The DoT aimed to alleviate financial burdens on manufacturers and promote innovation within the telecom and ICT sectors.
When will the new fee structure take effect?
The revised fee structure will be effective from August 1, 2025.
Are there any exemptions for government R&D institutes?
Yes, all security test evaluation fees for applications submitted by government R&D institutes will be fully exempted until March 31, 2028.
What products currently require mandatory security testing?
Products like IP Routers, Wi-Fi CPEs, and 5G Core SMF are currently under mandatory security testing.
How will this fee reduction impact telecom manufacturers?
The fee reduction is expected to boost competitiveness, stimulate local innovation, and simplify market entry for manufacturers.
