Government Reduces Telecom Testing Fees To Boost ‘Digital India’

On August 7, Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia announced a major reduction in telecom equipment certification fees.

Aiming to ease compliance burdens and stimulate domestic manufacturing growth. This move supports the government’s broader goal of strengthening the ease of doing business and building a self-reliant digital infrastructure.

In a post on X, Scindia stated, “Telecom testing made cheaper with certification fees slashed by up to 95% across over 50 categories…boosting compliance accelerating Ease of Doing Business strengthening trust for a self-reliant #DigitalIndia This landmark decision will directly benefit manufacturers and importers of telecom equipment including WiFi and 5G gear, routers, satellite systems, smart meters and optical fiber cables.”

The fee reductions cover a wide range of telecom products, including WiFi and 5G equipment, routers, satellite communication devices, smart meters, and optical fibre cables. This will reduce entry barriers for new manufacturers and encourage existing firms to expand their operations in India.

Industry Reaction

Industry experts have welcomed this decision, calling it ‘timely and much-needed relief’. They believe the fee cuts will accelerate the rollout of 5G and other advanced connectivity solutions, strengthening India’s digital ecosystem.

This announcement comes amid heightened global trade tensions.

The United States has imposed additional tariffs on Indian goods following New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil. These new duties will raise tariffs on some products to as much as 50%.

Indian exporters, particularly in the telecom and electronics sectors, are monitoring these developments closely.

While some see opportunities to fill supply chain gaps left by Chinese manufacturers, others warn that rising tariffs may disrupt contracts and impact profit margins.

The telecom testing fee cut aligns with India’s goal to boost local manufacturing and digital infrastructure development.

By lowering compliance costs, the government hopes to empower Indian companies to compete more effectively on a global scale, accelerate technology adoption, and foster a resilient and self-sufficient telecom sector.

India slashes telecom equipment testing fees by up to 95% to promote domestic manufacturing and support the rollout of 5G, amidst ongoing global trade challenges.

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