The Department of Telecommunications has extended the Pro Tem Security Certification Scheme for an additional two years starting from January 1, 2026. Introduced in October 2024, the scheme was designed to prevent business disruptions for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) whose IP routers and Wi-Fi Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) were required to undergo mandatory security certification.
Under the Pro Tem framework, OEMs submit a declaration of conformity stating that their products meet most security requirements under the Indian Telecommunication Security Assurance Requirements (ITSAR). Simultaneously, products are submitted to Telecom Security Testing Laboratories for detailed evaluation, with manufacturers undertaking to address any gaps identified during testing.
The scheme has now been expanded to include 5G Core Session Management Function (SMF), Optical Line Terminals (OLT), Optical Network Terminators (ONT), and new product launches. So far, 107 Pro Tem certificates have been issued, ensuring continuity of business operations without compromising security standards.
Major Reduction in TSTL Application Fees
In another industry-friendly step, NCCS has announced a reduction of more than 50 percent in application fees for the designation of Telecom Security Testing Laboratories. TSTLs play a critical role in testing telecom equipment in line with ITSAR and approved test procedures.
The revised fee structure introduces a simplified, application-based system, replacing the earlier complex slab-based model. Special concessions have been announced, including a 50 percent fee reduction for Indian startups, micro and small enterprises, and women-owned businesses. Government testing agencies, IITs, and autonomous public institutions will receive a complete fee waiver.
Lower renewal fees and affordable scope expansion are expected to encourage long-term participation, expand India’s security testing capacity, and reduce time-to-market for secure telecom products.
Simplified ITSAR Certification for ONT Devices
To further ease compliance, the DoT has simplified the ITSAR certification process for Optical Network Terminator devices, which are commonly used at customer premises for internet access. The ITSAR for ONTs was notified in November 2023 and will become mandatory from January 1, 2026.
Previously, multiple variants of ONT devices required separate certifications due to differences in software hash values, even when functionality remained the same. After consultations with industry stakeholders, NCCS has introduced a mechanism to test customized variants under a single certification process, reducing testing cases by nearly ten times and significantly lowering costs.
Strengthening India’s Telecom Security Ecosystem
These reforms build upon earlier measures announced in July 2025, when the DoT reduced security test evaluation fees for telecom and ICT products by up to 95 percent and simplified compliance for highly specialized and end-of-life equipment.
Collectively, the initiatives are expected to strengthen India’s telecom security infrastructure, promote indigenous testing capabilities, and reinforce the country’s position as a trusted global hub for telecom manufacturing and security assurance.