The Department of Telecommunications, on December 05, 2025, extended the validity of the Pro Term Security Certificate to 2 Years. This major reform aims to improve the ease of doing business and ensure uninterrupted operations for telecom and ICT manufacturers.
The following has been stated:
• Pro Tem Certificate Validity Increased: Now valid for 2 years instead of the earlier 6 months.
• Purpose: Helps OEMs continue business without disruption while their equipment undergoes full security testing.
• Applicable Products: Initially introduced for IP Routers and Wi-Fi CPEs; now extended to 5G Core SMF, Optical Line Terminal (OLT), Optical Network Terminal (ONT), and new product launches.
• Process for OEMs:
o Submit a declaration confirming compliance with major ITSAR security requirements.
oSend equipment to a Telecom Security Testing Lab (TSTL).
o Provide an undertaking to rectify any gaps found during testing.
• Impact: Over 102 Pro Tem certificates have already supported business continuity. The extension reduces the frequency of renewals and eases compliance pressure.
• Additional Reforms by DoT:
o Up to 95% reduction in security testing evaluation fees (announced July 2025).
o Simplified compliance for Highly Specialized Equipment (HSE) and End-of-Sale/End-of-Life products.
• Regulatory Context: Part of the broader ComSec scheme and the updated Mandatory Testing & Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) framework under the 2025 Rules.
