CCTV camera received a six-month compliance extension under the “Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirement of Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021,” as per an October 9, 2024 update from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The revised implementation date is now set for April 9, 2025. This extension allows manufacturers more time to transition smoothly and comply with the latest standards. 

Additionally, MeitY has released ‘Series Guidelines for CCTV Products’ to support compliance with Essential Requirements (ERs) under the CRO. These guidelines include specific criteria for product consistency within a series, such as:  

• System-on-Chip (SoC) must be the same across all products within a series. 

• PCBA layout for all products in the series must remain identical.

• Software/firmware versions and hash values must be identical for all products in the same series.

• Each software version must be tested separately as an independent series if multiple versions are used.   

• Each series must have the same hardware bill of materials (BoM). 

• As specified in the ER, each software bill of materials (BoM) must contain all firmware, operating system, and database components. 

• Certificates must include key details such as pictures of the product or DUT (Design Under Test), model numbers, chipset codes (including country of origin, make, and model numbers), firmware versions, and hashes.   

Further details can be found in the official MeitY notification and additional details are available in the Series Addition notification.  

MeitY’s Updated Guidelines for Existing and New CCTV Camera License

Following the compliance deadline extension, on October 22, 2024, MeitY released new guidelines to support both existing license holders and new applicants for CCTV cameras under IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010.  

Here’s a simplified summary: 

For Existing Licenses  

• Compliance Deadline: Existing licensees must comply with the Essential Requirements by April 9, 2025, by submitting the “Apply for Standard Revision/Amendment/Essential Requirement” application, alongside the ER test report.  

• Fees: The required fees are ₹30,000 + GST for the primary test report and ₹20,000 + GST for each additional report.

• BIS Compliance Letter: Once compliance is verified, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will issue a compliance letter listing all conforming models.  

• Non-compliance Penalty: Non-compliant models will be removed from the license scope, and failure to comply by the deadline could lead to license cancellation. 

For New Applicants  

• New applicants must apply in line with IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 and submit a declaration to implement the ER by April 9, 2025.

• Moreover, after the deadline (April 9, 2025), no License for CCTV cameras shall be granted without compliance with the ‘Essential Requirement(s) for Security of CCTV’ as notified in the QCO. 

Change in Scope of CCTV Camera License  

• After April 9, 2025, no inclusion requests for CCTV cameras will be accepted unless they meet the Essential Requirements outlined in the QCO.   

• Models that meet these standards may display the message “This CCTV camera complies with Essential Requirement(s) for Security” on their packaging.

For more details, refer to the official notification from here.  

Recap of the April 2024 Notification on Amendment and Essential Security Parameters for CCTV Camera  

On April 9, 2024, MeitY issued another significant amendment under the Comprehensive Regulatory Order (CRO) of 2021, adding essential security parameters for CCTV cameras.   

According to IS 13252-1, CCTV cameras must meet specific ERs outlined in Annex A. This amendment had to take effect on October 9, 2024, making it mandatory for all CCTV product categories to obtain test reports from a BIS-recognized lab. The completion of these tests is also necessary for the Standard Mark license.  

You can refer to the official notification issued by MietY from here.  

Background: Why Security Testing for CCTV Camera in India Become Mandatory?  

With the increasing importance of security in today’s digital world, India has moved decisively to mandate security certification for all CCTV cameras, bringing them under the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) framework.   

These steps were taken to address concerns over a foreign-made camera potentially transmitting sensitive data to external servers, a risk highlighted for CCTV cameras installed in sensitive areas like government buildings and dockyards. So, to safeguard national security and enhance data protection, the Indian government enforced rigorous security protocols for CCTV cameras and even banned certain foreign-manufactured cameras.   

Previously, only government tenders required STQC certification. Now, however, this requirement has been extended to all CCTV cameras sold in India, ensuring safety and security standards across the board. This shift not only safeguards data but also encourages local manufacturing, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative by giving preference to CCTV cameras with Indian-sourced components in government tenders.   

CCTV Camera Compliance: Challenges may faced by Manufacturers  

While these regulations aim to enhance security, they also bring challenges for CCTV Camera manufacturers. Testing timelines can vary, often taking 4 to 6 weeks, and certifications may take longer depending on the origin of the products.   

Manufacturers, especially in India, are urged to begin pre-compliance testing early to prepare for the full regulatory implementation which is set for April 2025 as mentioned above. This is an important time for the industry to prioritize security, ensuring that India’s digital infrastructure remains protected while supporting local manufacturing.  

By complying with these standards, manufacturers can contribute to a safer, more secure digital landscape in India, meeting regulatory requirements while supporting India’s goals for a secure digital future.  

Partner with VINCULAR to Achieve STQC Certification for CCTV Camera

Achieving STQC compliance for CCTV cameras can be complex, but VINCULAR makes it simple. With our expertise, we ensure your products meet the latest security and quality standards, keeping you fully compliant with MeitY’s requirements.  

From initial testing to final certification, Vincular supports you at every step, helping you streamline the process, reduce risks, and meet deadlines. Partner with us for a smooth and confident path to STQC compliance! 

For any support or expert guidance, reach out to us at bis@vincular.in or call us at +91 8088805577.