STQC Certification for CCTV Products

In a decisive move to improve the quality and cybersecurity of surveillance systems in India, the government has made STQC (Standardization Testing and Quality Certification) mandatory for all CCTV products, effective April 9, 2025. Manufacturers have been granted a 21-day period to comply with the new regulations, after which strict enforcement will begin. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and enforced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), aims to reduce the problem of unregulated imports and boost indigenous manufacturing. Let's find more details about this initiative in this article.

What is STQC Certification?

STQC Certification is a government-backed compliance process that ensures electronic products, including CCTV systems, meet essential quality and cybersecurity standards. It is administered by MeitY and enforced by BIS to eliminate the unregulated and low-quality imports. STQC is crucial for building consumer trust, safeguarding sensitive data, and promoting reliable surveillance solutions. The certification process validates that a product has undergone rigorous testing for safety, performance, and cyber resilience. Now, STQC certificate has become mandatory for CCTV products across the country. 

Process of Obtaining STQC Certificate

The process to obtain STQC certificate is comprehensive and involves technical evaluation, testing, and compliance. To obtain STQC certification for CCTV products, manufacturers must go through the following steps:

• Step 1: Application Submission – Submit a formal application physically or through mail to the STQC directorate.
• Step 2: Payment of Fee – Pay the prescribed certification fee.
• Step 3: Product Sample Delivery – Submit the product sample for evaluation.
• Step 4: Lab Testing – The product undergoes rigorous quality and performance testing.
• Step 5: Factory Inspection – A visit to the manufacturing unit is conducted.
• Step 6: Validation and Clearance – Based on test results and inspection, STQC certification is granted.

Below, we have attached the application form to obtain STQC certificate.

21-Day Compliance Deadline for STQC Certification

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set a 21-day deadline for CCTV manufacturers to complete the STQC certification process. Manufacturers must meet all requirements within this period to avoid suspension or cancellation of their BIS license. Those who comply will retain their registration, while non-compliant companies will have to reapply for certification and face a halt in sales.  

Consequences of Not Obtaining the STQC Certification

As mentioned, BIS has granted a 21-day compliance window through a Standard Deferment Notice, after which enforcement begins. Manufacturers who fail to comply with STQC requirements by the BIS-mandated date will face strict regulatory actions:

• BIS will suspend or cancel licenses of non-compliant manufacturers.
• A fresh registration will be required to resume business.
• Sales and supply of non-compliant CCTV products must be immediately halted.
• Companies must withdraw such products from warehouses, distributors, markets, and transit inventories.

Key Takeaways

• STQC Certification is mandatory for all CCTV products from April 9, 2025.
• The initiative is intended to curb low-quality imports and strengthen indigenous manufacturing.
• 21-day deadline issued by BIS for compliance.
• Non-compliance leads to license cancellation and business disruption.

Still Confused? Consult with IndiaFilings Experts!

If you're unsure about the STQC certification process or need assistance with BIS compliance, our team of experts at IndiaFilings is here to help. We offer comprehensive guidance to ensure that your CCTV products meet all necessary regulations and certifications. Reach out to us today for personalized support and stay ahead in the industry!

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FAQs

1. What is STQC certification for CCTV products?

STQC (Standardization Testing and Quality Certification) is a government-backed certification that ensures CCTV products meet essential standards of quality, safety, and cybersecurity, as defined by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

2. Is STQC certificate mandatory for CCTV products in India?

Yes, STQC certificate will be mandatory for all CCTV products in India starting from April 9, 2025, under the enforcement of MeitY and BIS.

3. Who is responsible for enforcing STQC certification in India?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), in coordination with MeitY, is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with the STQC certification requirements.

4. What is the process to obtain STQC certificate for CCTV products?

The process of obtaining a STQC certificate includes:

1. Application submission
2. Payment of certification fee
3. Submission of product samples
4. Laboratory testing
5. Factory inspection
6. Final validation and certification

5. What are the consequences of not obtaining STQC certification by the deadline?

Manufacturers who do not comply by April 9, 2025, may face license suspension or cancellation, a ban on sales, and withdrawal of non-compliant products from all distribution channels.

6. Why has STQC certification been made mandatory for CCTV systems?

The mandate is aimed at reducing low-quality and unsecured imports, ensuring cybersecurity, and promoting indigenous manufacturing in the surveillance sector.

7. Is there a grace period for compliance with the STQC requirement?

Yes, BIS has provided a 21-day compliance period through a Standard Deferment Notice. After this window, strict enforcement will begin.

8. Does STQC certification include cybersecurity standards?

Yes, STQC certification includes thorough testing for cyber resilience, making it essential for protecting surveillance data from digital threats.

9. Can CCTV products without STQC certification be sold after April 9, 2025?

No, selling or distributing CCTV products without STQC certification after the deadline will result in legal and regulatory consequences enforced by BIS.

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