As India extends telecom security certification timelines, the government couples compliance windows with lower testing fees and simpler device rules, aiming stability without weakening safeguards.
The government of India has extended security certification for telecom equipment, introducing a series of reforms for the telecom industry. Besides, it has slashed application fees for Telecom Security Testing Laboratories (TSTL). The centre has also simplified security certification rules for optical network terminator (ONT) devices.
The announcements were made by Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia on December 29, 2025.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), through the National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS), has extended the Pro Tem Security Certification Scheme for two additional years beyond 1 January 2026.
The government has extended the Pro Tem Security Certification Scheme for two more years beyond 1 January 2026. The scheme was introduced in 2024 to prevent disruptions in business operations for IP Routers and Wi-Fi equipment awaiting full security certification. Under this scheme, companies submit compliance declarations and offer their products for testing while continuing market operations.
The extended scope now includes 5G Core functions, optical terminals, and new product categories. More than 100 certificates have already been issued.
Parallely, the application fee structure has been reduced and simplified for TSTLs. Charges have been cut by more than 50 per cent across categories. Startups, small enterprises, and women-led firms will receive additional concessions, while government labs and academic institutions will get full fee waivers.
Renewal and scope-expansion costs have also been lowered, making long-term participation easier.
Certification requirements for ONT devices have also been eased. Earlier, multiple variants of the same device required individual certifications because of technical compilation differences.
The revised framework allows grouped testing under a single certification. This reduces testing cases and brings major cost relief to manufacturers. Mandatory certification for ONTs begins in January 2026, with voluntary compliance already underway.
The government says the measures seek to balance security priorities with easier compliance and business continuity, while supporting the development of secure digital infrastructure.
Industry stakeholders will observe how the reforms are implemented in practice.
