Noida, Mar 31 (APAC Media): India will bar the sale of certain internet-connected CCTV cameras, including those from Chinese firms such as Hikvision, Dahua Technology and TP-Link, from April 1 as stricter security certification rules come into force, officials and industry stakeholders said.
The move follows the implementation of mandatory clearance under the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) framework, which requires all surveillance equipment to undergo security testing before being sold in India.
A senior government official said the objective is to “ensure that no compromised or vulnerable device is deployed in sensitive or public environments,” adding that certification will not be granted to products failing to meet security and sourcing norms.
Industry executives said the new rules effectively restrict devices that rely on Chinese-origin chipsets or firmware.
“The compliance requirements are stringent, particularly around disclosure of components and software integrity,” said a senior executive at a domestic electronics firm, requesting anonymity.
The decision is part of India’s broader push to strengthen cybersecurity and reduce dependence on foreign-origin technology in critical sectors. According to market estimates, Chinese brands earlier held a significant share of India’s CCTV market.
However, domestic manufacturers have expanded rapidly during the transition period.
Companies such as CP Plus, Qubo and Matrix Comsec have increased localisation of components and software.
“This policy has accelerated the shift towards indigenous manufacturing,” said an industry analyst. “Indian players are now better positioned to meet both regulatory and market demands.”
Experts noted that while the restrictions could lead to short-term supply adjustments, the long-term impact would likely be positive for data security and domestic industry growth.
Existing installations of affected CCTV systems are not expected to face immediate disruption, as the rules apply primarily to new sales and certifications.
“The focus is on future procurement and ensuring trusted supply chains,” the government official added.
Analysts said the move aligns with India’s broader strategy to enhance digital sovereignty and safeguard infrastructure, even as it reshapes competition in the fast-growing surveillance market.
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