In a significant move to make it easier for businesses, the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has expanded the Simplified Certification Scheme (SCS). This change, effective from January 1, 2024, includes 37 additional products, aiming to streamline certification processes and boost the ease of doing business.
The expansion covers a diverse range of products such as media gateways, IP security equipment, IP terminals, optical fiber or cable, and transmission terminal equipment. With this update, the total number of products covered under the Simplified Certification Scheme has increased from twelve to forty-nine, offering a broader scope for businesses seeking certification.
One of the key benefits of this expansion is the reduction in certification time. The TEC aims to cut down the time required for certification from eight weeks to just two weeks. This move fosters a more efficient business environment, allowing companies to bring their products to market more quickly.
Starting January 1, the TEC will only charge an administrative fee for Essential Requirement (ER)-based applications submitted under the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) regime. This fee structure applies irrespective of the Global Conformity Assessment Scheme (GCS) and SCS category, simplifying the cost structure for applicants and promoting transparency in the certification process.
In a gesture welcomed by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and applicants, the TEC has announced a complete waiver of the evaluation fee. This substantial reduction, exceeding 80 per cent, serves as a significant relief for businesses, reducing the overall application fee and lessening the compliance burden.
The Ministry of Communications has currently notified sixty Telecom and networking products under the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) regime. This regulatory framework ensures the quality and compliance of telecom equipment, contributing to the reliability and safety of products in the telecommunications sector.
The expansion of the Simplified Certification Scheme and the revised fee structure are expected to have positive implications for the industry. These changes are likely to encourage innovation and facilitate a faster time-to-market for certified products. The Ministry of Communications emphasizes its commitment to creating a business-friendly regulatory environment while maintaining high standards of product quality and safety.
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