Department of Telecommunications (DoT) significantly reduces security test fees on telecom/ICT equipment by up to 95%

Department of Telecommunications (DoT) significantly reduces security test fees on telecom/ICT equipment by up to 95%

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India has announced a significant update to the Communication Security Certification Scheme (ComSec) fee structure for telecom and Information Communication Technology (ICT) products. Effective from August 1, 2025, the new structure aims to manage security certification costs while maintaining rigorous security standards.

Under the revised ComSec fee structure, applicants will now pay fees based on the complexity and security assessment efforts required for each product. The new fee structure includes application fees, evaluation fees, and annual fees. This balanced approach facilitates ease of certification processes without compromising on security.

Encouraging Indigenous Manufacturing and Innovation

The updated ComSec fee structure includes concessions or reduced fees for domestic manufacturers and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to encourage indigenous manufacturing and innovation in the telecom and ICT sector. These concessions help MSMEs manage certification costs effectively, ensuring they remain competitive in the market.

Enhancing Telecom and ICT Product Security

The revised ComSec fees are designed to enhance the security of telecom and ICT products in India. By aligning testing requirements with international security standards, the government aims to ensure the long-term security and integrity of the nation's telecom infrastructure.

A Step Towards Self-Reliance in Critical Technology Sectors

These changes are part of the government's broader goal of establishing India as a hub for telecom security testing and certification. By making certification more affordable and accessible, the revised ComSec fee structure reinforces self-reliance in critical technology sectors, boosting the competitiveness of Indian telecom manufacturers.

It is important to note that the specific fee figures and official guidelines can be found on the latest official notification or website of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) or the designated certification authority managing ComSec in India.

This update falls under the broader Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) framework, initially notified in September 2017 and superseded by the Telecommunications (Framework to Notify Standards, Conformity Assessment, and Certification) Rules, 2025.

The ComSec scheme mandates security testing and certification for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), importers, and dealers intending to sell, import, or use telecom equipment in India. The list of equipment subject to mandatory security testing includes Routers, Mobile Core equipment, Base stations, Satellite Communication Equipment, Transport Equipment, Customer Premises Equipment, SIM cards, and more.

The revised ComSec fee structure is anticipated to stimulate local innovation and streamline market entry for both domestic and international OEMs, ultimately benefiting the Indian telecom industry and consumers.

1. To strengthen the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers and foster indigenous innovation in the telecom and Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector, the revised Communication Security Certification Scheme (ComSec) fee structure offers concessions for domestic manufacturers and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
2. In line with the government's goal of self-reliance in critical technology sectors, the updated ComSec fee structure denotes a significant step towards establishing India as a hub for telecom security testing and certification, thereby enhancing the security of telecom and ICT products in the country and boosting the competitiveness of Indian telecom manufacturers.

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