The Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, has officially announced Phase VI of the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE).
This new notification expands the list of telecom and network products that must be tested and certified before being imported, sold, or used in India.
The initiative aims to ensure that all telecom equipment used in India meets essential safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and network integrity standards—ultimately protecting both consumers and the country’s communication infrastructure.
What’s New in MTCTE Phase VI?
The latest Phase VI notification, issued by TEC, introduces several new product categories under the mandatory certification scope.
Manufacturers, importers, and service providers dealing with the following products must now obtain TEC approval:
- Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) such as Cellular CPEs
- Fixed Wireless Phones (Voice & Data / Voice-only)
- Network and Security Devices including Network Security Management Systems, DDoS Protection Equipment, Firewalls, and Content Security Equipment
- Switching & Data Storage Equipment such as SAN Switches and Fabric Interconnects
- Satellite Communication Devices like NGSO User Terminals and Integrated Gateway Equipment
The certification for these categories becomes mandatory from 24 August 2025.
After this date, no product within these groups can be sold or imported without valid TEC certification under the MTCTE scheme.
Why This Notification Matters
The implementation of Phase VI marks another important step toward India’s vision of a secure and high-quality telecom ecosystem.
Here’s why compliance is crucial:
- Ensures network safety and interoperability between telecom systems.
- Prevents interference and ensures equipment performance meets Indian standards.
- Builds consumer confidence by assuring tested, safe, and approved equipment.
- Avoids regulatory penalties, shipment delays, or import restrictions.
For telecom OEMs, importers, and distributors—timely certification is essential to maintain market access and avoid disruptions in supply chains.
Who Needs MTCTE Certification under Phase VI
This notification applies to:
- Domestic Manufacturers of telecom and network devices
- Foreign OEMs exporting equipment to India
- Importers and Distributors bringing telecom equipment into India
- Telecom Operators and Integrators sourcing certified hardware
If your product connects to or operates within India’s public telecom network, MTCTE certification is mandatory.
How the MTCTE Phase VI Certification Process Works
Step 1: Product Identification
- Check whether your product falls under the Phase VI category listed on the official TEC portal.
Step 2: Registration on the MTCTE Portal
- Manufacturers or their authorized Indian representatives must create an account on the MTCTE online portal to begin the certification process.
Step 3: Product Testing
- Submit your product for testing at a TEC-designated or accredited laboratory to evaluate compliance with the essential requirements (ERs).
Step 4: Application Submission
- After receiving the test reports, upload all required documents and apply for certification through the MTCTE portal.
Step 5: Grant of Certificate
- Once the application and reports are verified, TEC issues the MTCTE Certificate, allowing you to market, import, and sell the product in India.
Step 6: Ongoing Compliance
- Ensure the certified model continues to meet TEC standards and labeling requirements.
Benefits of Early Compliance
- Smooth Market Entry: Avoid last-minute certification delays or import holds.
- Regulatory Readiness: Stay ahead of enforcement deadlines.
- Brand Reputation: Demonstrate your commitment to quality and compliance.
- Global Trade Support: Meet Indian telecom requirements with confidence.
Conclusion
The MTCTE Phase VI notification is a major update for the telecom industry in India.
Businesses that act early—by identifying affected products and beginning the certification process—will avoid disruptions and maintain smooth operations when the rules take effect in August 2025.
If you need professional support with testing, documentation, or submission, our team can help you navigate the MTCTE approval process quickly and efficiently.
