GAURAV TAYWADE
Director, India Operations
Vicon Industries
With a passion for advancing cutting-edge security solutions, Gaurav Taywade, Director, India Operations, Vicon Industries has dedicated over his eight years leading Vicon’s efforts in introducing innovative surveillance technologies to the Indian market. His journey with Vicon began as a Chief Software Architect, where he focused on the development of their Video Management System (VMS). That role allowed him to deeply understand the technical intricacies and customer needs that drive the security industry.
Over time, his responsibilities expanded as he took on new challenges and contributed to broader strategic initiatives. Through hands-on experience and a commitment to innovation, he gradually moved into the role of Director, overseeing India operations. Today, he is proud to lead a team that consistently delivers state-of-the-art solutions tailored to India’s unique security needs, positioning Vicon as a trusted partner in the region’s rapidly evolving market.
Recently SecurityLinkIndia had the opportunity to interface with Gaurav on multiple facets of Vicon and the industry at large, here are the excerpts:
What were the defining moments in your career that shaped your approach to leadership and management?
Throughout my career, pivotal moments have shaped my leadership approach. Leading the development of Vicon’s Video Management System as Chief Software Architect taught me to balance technical precision with customer-focused solutions, translating complex needs into practical outcomes. Transitioning from a technical role to managing team emphasized empathy, clear communication and empowering others, and fostering collaboration and turning challenges into growth opportunities. These experiences drive my commitment to integrity, innovation and building strong, supportive teams.
Kindly explain the entity Vicon Industries. What do you see as Vicon Industries’ unique value proposition in the Indian market?
Vicon Industries is a globally recognized leader in security technology with over 55 years of expertise in delivering advanced surveillance solutions. Renowned for high-quality cameras, Video Management Systems (VMS) and robust security platforms, Vicon emphasizes innovation, reliability, and meeting the evolving demands of modern security landscapes.
In the Indian market, Vicon’s unique value proposition lies in its commitment to NDAA-compliant, cybersecurity-focused solutions tailored to India’s growing focus on data security. By aligning with local regulatory standards such as BIS, STQC, and ER, Vicon ensures compliance while addressing the country’s diverse security needs. The focus on modular, AI-enhanced cameras and easy-to-deploy VMS minimizes installation costs and complexity, enabling seamless integration with existing systems. This positions Vicon as a trusted partner for Indian enterprises seeking cutting-edge, regulation-compliant security solutions.
How would you describe the company’s vision and goals for India, and how do they align with the global objectives of Vicon Industries?
Vicon’s vision for India focuses on becoming a leader in the security market by prioritizing compliance with critical certifications like BIS, STQC, and ER. This ensures our products meet stringent quality and safety standards, aligning with India’s regulatory environment. A key achievement in this direction is our STQC-approved, Made-in-India VMS, Valerus, tailored specifically to local needs.
Our goals also include developing products designed for India’s unique industries and environments, offering targeted security solutions. Embracing ‘Make in India’ initiatives, we aim to support local manufacturing, boost economic growth, and deliver cost-effective, high-quality products.
Globally, Vicon is synonymous with advanced security technologies, and we bring the same innovation and reliability to India. By integrating global expertise with local insights, we align our efforts to meet India’s specific demands while upholding Vicon’s international standards.
What are the challenges that Vicon encounter in India and how do you overcome them?
Vicon faces challenges in India’s dynamic, price-sensitive market, where premium positioning can be a hurdle. However, this also presents an opportunity to showcase the superior value and efficiency of our advanced solutions.
To address this, we focus on educating customers about the long-term benefits of high-quality products, emphasizing total cost of ownership over initial expenses. By highlighting the performance, reliability, and innovation our technology offers, we aim to shift the conversation from price to value.
Government initiatives promoting cybersecurity compliance further bolster demand for reliable, high-quality solutions. Vicon leverages this momentum by positioning itself as a trusted partner, aligning with quality and compliance standards. Consistent stakeholder engagement helps foster awareness of the critical need for robust security solutions tailored to India’s evolving requirements.
STQC is new essential requirement for security industry in India. Can you briefly explain in perspective of your products and business?
One of the key challenges in the Indian security market is adapting to new regulatory requirements such as STQC and ER, which have become essential for the industry. Vicon has embraced these regulations, recognizing their importance in strengthening security and quality standards in India. Our VMS, Valerus, has already received STQC certification, and we have also applied for STQC certification across our camera lineup. This demonstrates our proactive approach to compliance and our commitment to the highest standards
We welcome this initiative by the Indian government, as it brings an additional layer of security to the surveillance infrastructure in the country. With our entire portfolio already NDAA-compliant, we see these requirements not as challenges, but as opportunities to highlight the robust security of our products. By staying at the forefront of compliance and quality, Vicon is well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the Indian security landscape.
What other standards and certifications do you have for your products in your pocket and what are their implications?
Vicon’s products adhere to several international and industry standards, underscoring our commitment to quality, security and reliability. Our VMS, Valerus, is STQC certified, meeting the stringent requirements set by the Indian government. Additionally, Valerus complies with most ONVIF protocols, ensuring seamless interoperability with a wide range of third-party security systems.
Our cameras are NDAA-compliant, a critical standard for ensuring that no restricted components are used, which enhances security for government and regulated industries. They are also UL listed, verifying their adherence to rigorous safety standards, and FCC Class A certified for electronic emissions compliance. Furthermore, our cameras meet CE requirements for European markets, carry IP67 and IK10 ratings for durability (including front glass), and support ONVIF Profiles S, T, G, and Q for broad compatibility. Finally, our products are RoHS-compliant, ensuring they are environmentally friendly by restricting hazardous substances.
“In the Indian market, Vicon’s unique value proposition lies in its commitment to NDAA-compliant, cybersecurity-focused solutions tailored to India’s growing focus on data security. By aligning with local regulatory standards such as BIS, STQC, and ER, Vicon ensures compliance while addressing the country’s diverse security needs. The focus on modular, AI-enhanced cameras and easy-todeploy VMS minimizes installation costs and complexity, enabling seamless integration with existing systems. This positions Vicon as a trusted partner for Indian enterprises seeking cutting-edge, regulation-compliant security solutions”
These certifications and standards demonstrate Vicon’s dedication to delivering secure, reliable, and globally compliant surveillance solutions that meet the demands of diverse markets, including India.
What is your go to market strategy in India?
Can you share some of the strategies Vicon Industries is implementing to expand its presence in India? Vicon’s go-to-market strategy in India focuses on delivering innovative, user-centric solutions powered by AI and cloud capabilities. We align with local regulatory standards like STQC and ER, while strengthening partnerships with distributors and system integrators to expand accessibility across sectors. Backed by global R&D investments, Vicon ensures reliable, high-quality products that address India’s growing surveillance needs and contribute to the global security landscape.
Can you please throw light on the manufacturing processes of your brands?
Do you have any plan to set up manufacturing in India? Vicon’s manufacturing strategy spans multiple locations globally, ensuring high-quality standards across all our products. We currently manufacture our hardware products through trusted facilities worldwide, each equipped with state-of-the-art technology to meet international compliance and quality standards.
In India, we’re taking significant steps toward localized production. Our VMS, Valerus, is fully developed in India, underscoring our commitment to supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative. We are actively exploring options to set up a manufacturing facility within the country in the coming years. This expansion will not only strengthen our supply chain, but also enhance our ability to serve the Indian market with solutions that are tailored and locally produced, aligning with both customer needs and government initiatives.
How does the company balance the need for innovation with the need for cost-effectiveness in a competitive market like India?
At Vicon, our priority is to introduce state-of-the-art security solutions that meet the highest standards of performance, reliability and innovation. While cost-effectiveness is always a consideration, our focus remains on delivering products that add substantial value for our customers through advanced technology and robust quality. We believe that by prioritizing innovation and quality, we empower our clients with solutions that offer long-term benefits, ultimately providing better value and a higher return on investment. This approach not only differentiates us in the market but also aligns with our commitment to setting new benchmarks in security.
The call of Make in India and Atmnirbhar Bharat is in full swing. How do Vicon brands commensurate with these concepts?
Vicon fully supports the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, aligning our goals with India’s vision for self-reliance and local manufacturing. We are actively contributing to this vision by developing our VMS, Valerus, entirely in India. Additionally, we’re working toward establishing a manufacturing footprint in the country for our hardware products in the near future. By focusing on local development and production, we aim to create solutions that not only meet India-specific requirements but also foster local talent and strengthen the security infrastructure within India.
The security and surveillance industry has seen rapid advancements. What are the key trends that you believe will shape the future of this industry?
The security and surveillance industry is evolving rapidly, driven by key trends like modular, AI-driven camera platforms that simplify installation and maintenance, enhancing flexibility and cost-efficiency. Onboard AI processing is also transforming the field by enabling real-time analytics at the device level, delivering immediate, actionable insights without relying on external systems. These advancements pave the way for smarter, more autonomous, and scalable security solutions, redefining the future of surveillance across industries.
“Vicon ensures that its security solutions are well-suited for the Indian market by offering localized support, including 24/7 customer service, technical assistance, and training in regional languages. This focus on adaptability and reliability helps meet the diverse needs of Indian customers, ensuring seamless integration and effective use of Vicon’s products across various applications”
How has the rise of technologies like AI and IoT influenced Vicon’s product development and market approach in India?
The rise of AI and IoT has significantly shaped Vicon’s product development and market strategy in India. AI has enabled Vicon to integrate real-time analytics, advanced functionalities, and autonomous decision-making directly at the camera level, enhancing operational efficiency and enabling proactive threat detection. This shift allows for faster, more informed responses to security events.
IoT has further strengthened Vicon’s solutions by enabling seamless integration with existing infrastructures, providing scalable, flexible and remotely manageable security systems. This is especially relevant in India’s rapidly growing demand for smart, connected solutions, particularly in sectors like industrial, commercial, and infrastructure security. By combining AI and IoT, Vicon delivers comprehensive, future-ready solutions that meet the market’s needs for advanced technology, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
What do you foresee as the biggest challenges and opportunities for the security industry in India over the next few years?
The security industry in India faces several challenges in the coming years, including the integration of advanced AI and IoT technologies into existing infrastructure, concerns around data privacy and cybersecurity, and the complexities and costs of upgrading legacy systems. Additionally, the evolving regulatory landscape will require companies to stay ahead of data protection laws.
However, there are significant opportunities as well. The growth of smart cities and infrastructure development presents a huge demand for integrated, scalable security systems. Additionally, the need for cost-effective, AI-driven solutions for businesses of all sizes, coupled with increased focus on industrial and critical infrastructure security, offers ample potential for growth. With government initiatives supporting digitization and innovation, the security industry in India is well-positioned to evolve, addressing both challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.
Can you share any recent innovations, products and project from Vicon that have been wellreceived in the Indian market?
Vicon has introduced several innovations that have been well-received in the Indian market, particularly the Vicon 4K PTZ camera and the NEXT™ modular camera solution.
The Roughneck® AI 8 MP (4K) PTZ camera stands out for its advanced imaging and auto-tracking capabilities in a durable, rugged package. With a powerful 35x optical zoom, 8x digital zoom, motorized focus, and a P-iris lens, the camera delivers exceptional clarity in both day and night conditions. In fact, its IR is so powerful that it allows for nighttime viewing in darkness from distances of up to 400 meters. Its high-impact IK10 rating and IP66 protection ensure reliability in demanding environments, making it an ideal choice for industrial, infrastructure, and critical security applications across India.
In addition, the NEXT™ camera platform is revolutionizing the way security systems are installed and managed. This modular camera system reduces installation time from hours to minutes, making it highly efficient for integrators and end-users alike. It harnesses powerful onboard AI processing, providing real-time analytics and advanced functionalities directly at the camera level. This innovation allows for seamless scalability, future-readiness, and enhanced performance, meeting the growing demand for intelligent, adaptable security solutions in India.
These products reflect Vicon’s commitment to providing advanced, reliable, and cost-effective security solutions, perfectly suited to the evolving needs of the Indian market.
How does Vicon approach product localization and customization for the Indian market?
Vicon ensures that its security solutions are well-suited for the Indian market by offering localized support, including 24/7 customer service, technical assistance, and training in regional languages. This focus on adaptability and reliability helps meet the diverse needs of Indian customers, ensuring seamless integration and effective use of Vicon’s products across various applications.
What does the R&D process look like at Vicon Industries, and how do you keep pace with the rapidly evolving technology landscape?
At Vicon, the R&D process is focused on continuous innovation, ensuring that our products meet the latest technological advancements and industry demands. We closely monitor emerging trends, collaborate with technology partners, and integrate AI, IoT, and other cutting-edge technologies into our solutions. Our dedicated R&D team works on developing scalable, future-ready products while maintaining rigorous testing and quality control to keep pace with the rapidly evolving security landscape.
How do you ensure that Vicon’s products meet the specific demands and standards of Indian customers and regulations?
Vicon ensures that its products meet the specific demands and standards of Indian customers by adapting to local environmental conditions, complying with local regulations, and offering customizable solutions. We also provide localized support including training, technical assistance, and customer service in regional languages ensuring our products align with India’s unique security needs and regulatory requirements.
Which sector is your priority as on date – government or private – and why?
Currently, Vicon’s focus is on the government sector, as it offers significant growth opportunities, particularly with the ongoing development of smart cities and infrastructure projects. However, we continue to serve and support the private sector, where our solutions are also gaining traction, and we see potential for further expansion in both sectors as demand for advanced security solutions grows.
What are the challenges you encounter during government projects and how do you overcome them?
One major challenge we face in government projects is the time it takes to realize the project, as the approval and implementation process is lengthy. We overcome this by setting the right expectations for our clients, ensuring clear communication about timelines and milestones. Another challenge is pricing, as government tenders often have strict budget constraints. To address this, we carefully evaluate and participate in bids where we believe our pricing aligns with the project requirements, ensuring both competitiveness and profitability.
What recommendations would you like to make to the government to enable further ease of doing business?
At this time, we believe the current framework for doing business with the government is effective. However, continued focus on simplifying the procurement process, improving transparency, and streamlining approval procedures can further enhance efficiency. Additionally, offering incentives for adopting advanced security technologies and encouraging public-private collaborations would support innovation and help drive the growth of the security sector.
Can you talk about some key partnerships or collaborations that have helped Vicon establish itself in the Indian market?
Vicon has established strong partnerships and collaborations with key players in the Indian market, which have played a crucial role in our success. We have worked closely with local system integrators, technology partners, and government agencies to ensure our products meet the specific needs of Indian customers. These collaborations have helped us offer tailored solutions, navigate regulatory requirements, and provide localized support. Additionally, partnerships with infrastructure developers and security service providers have enabled us to expand our presence in key sectors such as smart cities, industrial facilities, and critical infrastructure, solidifying our position in the Indian market.
Does Vicon Industries have any CSR initiatives or sustainability goals specific to its operations in India?
Yes, Vicon is committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) across its global operations, including in India. While our primary focus is on providing advanced security solutions, we are also dedicated to minimizing environmental impact by incorporating sustainable practices in our product design and manufacturing processes. This includes efforts to reduce energy consumption, optimize resource use, and promote recycling. Additionally, we aim to contribute to local communities through initiatives that support education, safety, and environmental awareness, aligning with global sustainability goals while meeting the specific needs of the Indian market.
Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace change and innovation more quickly. The business world, especially in technology, evolves rapidly, and being open to new ideas, adapting to change and taking calculated risks early on can unlock opportunities for growth and success. Building strong relationships and focusing on continuous learning are also key to long-term success, both personally and professionally.
