In a major step towards strengthening digital security, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has enforced new regulations that will significantly restrict the use of Chinese surveillance equipment in India. Starting April 1, strict certification norms will come into effect, making it difficult for several popular Chinese CCTV brands to continue operating in the Indian market.

STQC Certification Now Mandatory for All CCTV Devices

Under the new rules, all CCTV cameras sold in India must obtain approval from the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC). The updated framework, introduced as part of the Essential Requirements Norms in April 2024, required companies to comply within two years — a deadline that now ends at midnight.

Manufacturers must disclose the country of origin of their system-on-chip and ensure their devices pass stringent security and vulnerability tests.

Chinese Brands Face Market Exit

Leading Chinese brands such as Hikvision, Dahua, and TP-Link are expected to be heavily impacted, as most of their products have not met the new compliance standards.

Additionally, any surveillance device using Chinese chipsets is likely to face restrictions, effectively limiting their presence in the Indian market.

National Security Concerns Behind the Move

Security experts have long raised concerns over the potential risks associated with foreign-made surveillance systems. There have been fears that such devices could allow unauthorized remote access to sensitive footage, posing threats to national security.

The new norms aim to eliminate these vulnerabilities and ensure that surveillance infrastructure within the country remains secure and trustworthy.

Indian Brands Gain Ground

Indian manufacturers have used the transition period to adapt to the new regulations. Companies like CP Plus, Qubo, Prama, Matrix, and Sparsh have shifted to non-Chinese chipsets, particularly from Taiwan, and developed local firmware.

According to Counterpoint Research, Indian brands now command over 80 percent of the market — a sharp rise from the previous year when Chinese companies held nearly one-third of total sales. More than 500 CCTV models have already received certification.

Boost for ‘Make in India’ and Consumer Safety

The move is expected to significantly boost the ‘Make in India’ initiative by promoting domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign technology.

For consumers, the new rules promise enhanced safety across homes, offices, and public spaces, minimizing concerns related to foreign surveillance or data breaches.

A Turning Point in India’s Digital Security Strategy

The April 1 deadline marks more than just a regulatory change. It represents a decisive shift in India’s approach to protecting its digital infrastructure and national security.

As the country tightens control over critical technologies, the phasing out of Chinese surveillance equipment signals a broader push toward self-reliance and secure digital ecosystems.

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