STQC is a buzzword today in electronic security industry in India. The Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) Directorate, under the aegis of MeitY (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology), has laid down a meticulous framework – ER IoTSCS (Essential Requirements for Security – IoT Surveillance Compliance Standards), whereby all the CCTV products installed in India will have to be cyber secured, and all non-compliant products are barred from sale in the Indian market by April 9, 2025,.
These are not mere technicalities; they are for the constitution of credible Make in India surveillance, demanding that every camera be proven for impregnable security, resilience, and integrity. The objective of the directive is to check data leakage and fortify national security.
In a country as vast, diverse, and complex as India, securing urban and rural spaces alike has always been a daunting challenge. Surveillance cameras, once mere watchers on walls, are now becoming intelligent sentinels – capable of analyzing, alerting, and adapting. But with power accountability must come – STQC.
India’s surveillance landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the enforcement of new compliance regulations – STQC ER, PPO’24, and CRO’24. These frameworks, introduced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), are designed to raise the bar for quality, cybersecurity, and trust in video surveillance products across the country.
At the center of this transformation is Essential Requirements (ER), a mandatory compliance standard aimed at ensuring hardware-level security, robust firmware protection, and transparent supply chains in network cameras. To certify products against these requirements, MeitY has authorized STQC (Standardization Testing and Quality Certification) to evaluate surveillance devices under the IoT System Certification Scheme (IoTSCS). This certification process ensures that cameras are not only secure and reliable but also aligned with global benchmarks like ISO/ IEC 27402 for IoT cybersecurity.
While the regulations began with a focus on government tenders, their scope has expanded. Under the Public Procurement Order 2024 (PPO’24), all government entities are mandated to use only STQC-certified, ER-compliant cameras in their projects. Whether it’s a smart city installation, law enforcement initiative, or defense setup, only certified products are now eligible for procurement. PPO’24 also strengthens the Make-in-India movement by giving preference to locally manufactured solutions. Vendors are categorized based on local content, and those found misrepresenting their compliance risk being blacklisted.
The private sector is not left out either. Customer Requirement Order 2024 (CRO’24) makes STQC ER compliance mandatory for all network cameras sold in India, regardless of the buyer. This means that even retail chains, corporate offices, or manufacturing facilities must now ensure that the surveillance products they buy meet these cybersecurity and safety standards. By April 9, 2025, all non-compliant products will be barred from sale in the Indian market.
Although the concept of scheme is welcome by all the stakeholders, a large share of the industry including IT and allied industry has reservations on the modus operandi of phasing out the products and its timeline. There was internal discussions, a sort of protest, and press brief on 22 April 2025 at Misonic Club, Janpath wherein more than 50 MSMEs took attendance and put forth their grievances and demands to the government. The delegates representing VIVOTEK, Infinova, Hanwha and various other IT and security companies were present there in the solidarity of the campaign. The protest was led by FAITTA, APSA, ESAI and many other allied associations. They all were in agreement of the concept and objective of upholding national security but were in demand of extension of timeline.
Further, a team of SecurityLinkIndia magazine and eportal got engaged in conversation with various stakeholders to know about their take on the given subject of STQC mandate, and gathered their view points. Here are some of them:
Aditya Khemka
Managing Director, CP PLUS (Aditya Infotech Ltd.)
At CP PLUS, we believe in delivering technology that not only leads the industry but also empowers our country to meet its security challenges head-on. Achieving the ER IoTSCS STQC certification is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence in security technology. It assures our customers that they are investing in products that meet the highest benchmarks of performance, safety, and quality.
With this certification, CP PLUS’ camera range is poised to support various government-led and private-sector initiatives, offering secure, resilient, and intelligent surveillance capabilities. The certification also positions CP PLUS as a trusted partner for organizations that require compliance with national standards for security technology in government, critical infrastructure, and commercial applications.
From smart city deployments to enhancing school safety, CP PLUS leverages STQC-certified solutions to meet diverse security needs. Our cameras integrate seamlessly with AI-powered analytics, ensuring proactive threat detection and real-time monitoring across industries.
STQC certification embodies a commitment to quality, trust, and excellence within India’s security and surveillance industry. By certifying critical systems, it underpins the reliability of technologies safeguarding the nation’s infrastructure and citizens. With trailblazers like CP PLUS leading the charge through certified innovations, the future of surveillance in India is not only secure but also getting more and more advanced each day.
Gaurav Taywade
Director, India Operation | Vicon Industries
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the initiative taken by MeitY and BIS with the introduction of the BIS: ER 2024 certification, aimed at further elevating the quality and security standards for surveillance products in India. This progressive step reflects the government’s strong commitment to enhancing the nation’s digital infrastructure and ensuring greater protection for critical systems. While the underlying objectives of this regulation are commendable and aligned with the broader vision of a self-reliant India, it is equally important to thoughtfully consider the practical dynamics during its implementation. In the early phases, there could be some transitional challenges, such as potential constraints on the availability of globally recognized products, higher costs, and longer lead times, which may affect the Indian system integrator ecosystem.
I would also like to encourage all brands and industry participants to actively engage with the authorities, bring forward their questions and suggestions, and work collaboratively towards continuous policy improvements that benefit the entire ecosystem.
Sanjeev Sehgal
MD & Founder, Sparsh CCTV
Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) is an initiative by the Government of India to ensure that electronic products – including CCTV cameras – adhere to well-defined standards for quality, security, and performance. From April 9, 2025, all IP CCTV cameras sold in India are required to be STQC-certified, reinforcing the government’s vision for a secure and self-reliant surveillance ecosystem under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
This move significantly elevates the Indian surveillance industry by encouraging certified, high-quality solutions and fostering innovation among manufacturers. It creates a trusted environment where businesses, institutions, and consumers can confidently adopt surveillance technologies that meet national standards. The certification also strengthens the foundation for indigenous brands to expand their presence both locally and globally.
The introduction of STQC marks a powerful step forward for India’s electronic security industry. It enhances trust, ensures product integrity, and sets a benchmark for excellence. At Sparsh, we are honored to be the first Indian manufacturer to achieve STQC certification for the widest range of CCTV products. This accomplishment reflects our proactive approach to compliance, quality, and innovation – offering secure and future-ready surveillance solutions to the nation.
Niket Kabra
Founder & CEO, Velvu Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
STQC Compliance: A Welcomed Reform, But Where is the Roadmap for Transition?
At Velvu Technologies, we proudly stand as one of India’s few homegrown CCTV manufacturers, operating from a 32,000sq.ft. advanced facility built on the pillars of quality, compliance, and innovation. Our mission has always been to deliver secure, reliable, and future-ready surveillance solutions, aligned with reliable standards.
We fully support the STQC (Standardization Testing and Quality Certification Directorate) initiative and its intent to strengthen India’s electronic manufacturing standards. However, we are concerned not with compliance, but with the lack of a structured transition roadmap and adequate government support for manufacturers, especially MSMEs and startups like us.
Velvu has made major investments in recent years to setup infrastructure, skilled manpower, and regulatory alignment. But the sudden enforcement of revised STQC norms has impacted manufacturing operations significantly and put over 100+ workers at risk posing serious sustainability challenges. This isn’t just our story; it’s a growing reality for MSMEs & startups across India.
One of the biggest roadblocks to STQC compliance is the monopolized availability of standard-compliant chipsets. These components are controlled by a few global suppliers, making them extremely expensive and hard to procure. Without government-backed procurement channels, compliance becomes a privilege only a few can afford.
We urge the government to adopt a phased implementation plan rolling out STQC requirements in stages with industry consultation. Additionally, financial and infrastructure support through grants and subsidies is vital to help MSMEs & startups with certification costs, equipment upgrades, and compliance investments.
Setting up dedicated helpdesks for documentation and procedural support, along with a reasonable grace period, will ensure that MSMEs can transition smoothly without impacting operations.
This is a defining moment for Indian manufacturing policy. With the right balance of regulatory excellence and economic feasibility, we can build a future where compliance and commerce go hand in hand – and where Indian MSMEs are empowered, not excluded, in the journey toward global leadership.
Ganesh Jivani
MD & CEO, Matrix Comsec
As India transitions toward a safe, secure, and self-reliant future, compliance in critical technologies like video surveillance has become a national priority. The introduction of Essential Requirements (ER) by the Government of India is a timely and necessary step toward ensuring that network cameras used in public and private infrastructure meet rigorous cybersecurity, safety, and sourcing standards.
At Matrix, we see this shift not as a regulatory hurdle, but as a reaffirmation of principles we’ve long held. With every solution researched, designed, and manufactured in India, we have always believed that trust in technology begins at the design table. Our STQC-certified network cameras reflect this philosophy, integrating security not as an afterthought, but as a foundational element, right from secure hardware to encrypted communication and supply chain transparency.
This approach aligns closely with India’s Make-inIndia vision – a philosophy Matrix deeply believes in and actively upholds. With in-house product development, DSIR-recognized R&D, and a firm commitment to the idea that Indian engineers can design, develop, and manufacture world-class products, Matrix stands as one of the few Indian companies offering fully compliant surveillance solutions researched, designed, engineered, and manufactured entirely within the country. These efforts go beyond fulfilling policy requirements – they represent our belief in creating resilient, homegrown technologies that contribute meaningfully to the nation’s long-term interests.
Prabhakar Pandey
Director, Royal Impact Certification Ltd. (RICL)
Royal Impact Certification Ltd. (RICL) has been instrumental in providing compliance and certification solutions to its clients from various industry verticals including CCTV manufacturers from across the globe. RICL provides services like technical document review, testing and certification against the requirements of various Indian and International Standards.
Over the years the compliance burden on manufacturers has increased multifold with most of the standards having similar requirements related to electrical safety, EMC and cybersecurity. In India, BIS is already registering CCTV manufacturers under its CRS scheme for which stringent testing is done in BIS approved labs. To add onto that, CCTV manufacturers also get VAPT done for their products by CERT-In approved labs. Besides above many other international certifications like CE, RoHS and FCC are also in practice.
The recently mandated STQC certification by MEITY is a huge compliance over burden on CCTV manufacturers. The dead line fixed for the same needs to be extended and MEITY along with STQC should first organize seminars/ awareness sessions for manufacturers in order to make them adequately aware about the requirements, process and fees of STQC scheme and how it is different from existing BIS CRS & Cert-In VAPT. This confidence and trust building measure along with adequate implementation time period shall prove to be a positive step toward implementation of new compliance requirements.
Anand V Bhat
Founder & CMD, BNB Security & Automation Solutions
At BNB Security & Automation Solutions, we recognize the indispensable role that national quality assurance frameworks like the Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) Directorate play in building a secure digital infrastructure for India. Although we do not directly engage with STQC, we deeply support its mission of promoting standardized, certified and trustworthy IT systems across public and private sectors.
As a leading Systems Integrator in the Security, Life Safety & Automation domains, our mandate spans infrastructure protection, data privacy, people safety, brand, reputation management, sustainability and environmental safeguards. In our project designs and solution deployments, we align with national benchmarks and quality practices exemplified by STQC. We prioritize the use of tested, secure and standards-compliant software platforms – especially in sensitive enterprise environments where resilience and trust are non-negotiable.
By echoing STQC’s commitment to quality, safety and data integrity, we help build confidence in the digital systems that power today’s critical infrastructure. Our shared vision of a secure, compliant and quality-first technology ecosystem forms the foundation for a more resilient and future-ready India. Supporting STQC’s mission is, for us, a matter of national interest and industry responsibility.
Ayoosh K Aggarwal
Director, IDDS
The enforcement of mandatory STQC (Standardization Testing and Quality Certification) for CCTV cameras in India has led to several challenges across the surveillance industry. Although, it was proposed with good intention to ensure compliance with cybersecurity and safety standards mandated by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) but delays in obtaining STQC clearance for CCTV cameras have significantly impacted various public safety and infrastructure projects across India.
Key Issues Arising from STQC Clearance Mandate on CCTV:
1.Project Delays and Implementation Challenges
Indian Railways’ Surveillance Project: The implementation of a comprehensive video surveillance system at railway stations has been hindered due to delays of approval by STQC. Despite finalized tenders and allocated funds, no camera manufacturer had secured the necessary clearance for all items necessary to run the system, leading to significant project delays.
Mohali CCTV Installation: In Mohali, the installation of 216 automatic number plate recognition cameras and other surveillance equipment faced delays due to pending no-objection certificates (NOCs). The project only progressed after intervention from senior police officials, highlighting administrative bottlenecks affecting timely execution.
SME Burden: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are facing significant financial burdens due to the high costs associated with STQC compliance, delays and implementation issues. This financial strain is leading to potential business closures and job losses in the sector.
Increased Costs for End Users: The additional compliance costs are likely to be passed on to consumers, resulting in higher prices for CCTV systems.This price increase could deter individuals and small businesses from installing these essential security devices, potentially reducing surveillance coverage and hindering public safety efforts.
2.Supply Chain and Testing Infrastructure Constraints
Manufacturers’ Readiness: Many manufacturers have expressed unpreparedness to comply with the Essential Requirements (ER) due to supply chain delays, design changes, and lack of testing infrastructure.
Testing Delays: The shortage of recognized private laboratories for ER testing and the need for Unified Test Report Formats (UTRF) have further slowed the certification process, causing backlogs and extended timelines for compliance.
3.Regulatory Ambiguities and Compliance Confusion
Certification Validity Issues: Certificates previously issued under the IoT System Certification Scheme are not deemed valid for the Public Procurement Order (PPO) of cameras unless products are validated for the Essential Requirements specified in the March 6, 2024, notification. This has created confusion among stakeholders regarding the applicability of existing certifications.
4.Operational Inefficiencies and Security Risks
Non-Functional Surveillance Systems: In Bengaluru, under the Safe City project, only 5,000 out of 7,500 installed CCTV cameras were operational as of early 2024. Technical issues and delays in addressing them have compromised the effectiveness of surveillance infrastructure, potentially affecting public safety and crime prevention efforts.
Risk of Market Monopolization: The stringent certification requirements may inadvertently favor a limited number of large manufacturers capable of absorbing the compliance costs. This scenario could lead to a monopolistic market, where a few dominant players control the supply and pricing of CCTV systems, stifling competition and innovation.
Manmohan Kumar
Sales Director, Rosslare Electronics India Pvt Ltd.
Why are we considering adding another layer of certification – STQC – for Access Control products in India when they already undergo rigorous testing and compliance through BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) and WPC (Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing) certifications? This proposed requirement is not only redundant but will also lead to increased costs, unnecessary documentation, and stifle innovation within the industry.
Let’s be clear: BIS certification already ensures that these products meet stringent quality and safety standards relevant to the Indian context. It covers crucial aspects like performance, reliability, and safety hazards.
Furthermore, for access control products with wireless capabilities, WPC certification is mandatory to regulate the radio frequency spectrum and ensure they operate without causing interference. This addresses a critical aspect of modern access control systems.
Adding STQC on top of these established certifications offers no significant added value. Instead, it will create:
- Increased Financial Burden: Manufacturers, especially SMEs and startups, will face additional testing fees, audit costs, and consultancy charges, making their products more expensive for consumers.
- Unnecessary Bureaucracy: Another layer of certification means more paperwork, longer approval times, and a more complex regulatory landscape. This can delay product launches and hinder market entry.
- Duplication of Effort: STQC will likely assess similar parameters already covered by BIS and WPC, leading to a wasteful duplication of testing and evaluation processes.
- Hindrance to Innovation: The added cost and complexity can discourage companies from investing in research and development, ultimately slowing down technological advancements in the access control sector.
- No Clear Benefit to Consumers: Consumers will ultimately bear the brunt of these increased costs without any tangible improvement in the quality or safety of the products they purchase, which are already assured by BIS and WPC.
What We Need is Streamlined Regulation, Not Redundancy.
The government’s focus should be on simplifying the regulatory environment and ensuring the effective implementation of existing standards like BIS and WPC. Adding unnecessary layers like mandatory STQC for access control products will only create bottlenecks and hinder the growth of the industry without providing any demonstrable improvement in product quality or security.
Let’s advocate for a rational and efficient regulatory framework that supports the ‘Make in India’ initiative and benefits both manufacturers and consumers. Say NO to unnecessary STQC certification for already BIS and WPC certified Access Control products!
Cdr Kartik Vig
Director, Security & Risk Consulting at Netrika
Security Perspective. It is a step in the right direction. The GoI is serious about its implementation, which is evident through the measures being put in place to ensure compliance. It’s not just the CCTV’s, but soon the GoI intends to get the NVRs under the purview as well, which will bring most of the surveillance system under the ambit.
Manufacturer Perspective. It will require them to incorporate processes to meet the requirement mandated. Already we have a few OEMs onboard, having received the STQC certification for different series of CCTV cameras. All will have to comply if they wish to sell their CCTV cameras in the Indian market. It will entail extra costs, planning and work on part of manufacturers.
End User Perspective. The applicability of the requirement is across the industry and users. To begin with, it would be prudent for the users to ensure compliance by deploying products/ CCTVs that meet the STQC requirements. Presently the choice of OEMS seems restricted, however this should ease out soon/ with time. It may add to the cost of implementation/ procurement and would entail planning/ ensuring that solutions designed for implementation, align with requirements posited by the respective gazette notifications.
Anil Dhawan
Managing Director, DB Secure Solution Pvt. Ltd.
The recent circular of Government of India restricting the import of CCTV equipment is a very good step in the right direction. Besides the risk of security, it will help encourage MAKE IN INDIA concept of CCTV cameras rigorously. It will set a uniform rate of cameras avoiding the parity with imported makes otherwise getting benefit. Most imported cameras having delayed spare support and restricted range to suit the OEM production pattern and stocks. Unnecessary the corporate market too fascinated with imported brands in line with internal policy of approved makes.
Although many MAKE IN INDIA units have components imported in many cases, the same should be banned to have 100% locally manufactured unit. The skill and resources are very much available.
The new requirements should make it mandatory MAKE IN INDIA to be the item to be bided. The industry infrastructure is very strong to meet any volume of requirements that may arise.
Associations Perspective
Suhaas Kaul
FAIITA
We welcome the policy of the government towards national security whereby every camera installed or to be installed is to be cyber secured to check the data leakage. That is wonderful. But the policy has been implemented so fast that all the MSMEs are not getting sufficient time to enable the compliance as directed. They can enhance their R&D capabilities at their places. So the timeline given for all these compliances to be prepared is not adequate. Only 2-4 companies which have been involved in these from the beginning are able to get the licenses. Out of the total 6000+ models earlier on GeM only 120 models are approved as on date.
Issue is that can these 4 companies with just 120 models cater to the entire requirement of the industry per month; secondly the price of the cameras will increase monopolistically. That will at least be 4 times the rate of what it is right now. This is a hurdle because the number of both approved products and companies are conspicuously less.
Hence, we demand an extension of timeline for at least 1 to 1.5 years to prepare and enable the compliance as per the guidelines of the government policy. By the time we will be able to enhance our capabilities to enable the basis of the policy and competition can be reduced to the affordability of the end users, and we could become the instrument for strengthening the given national security.
Even the multinational companies presently active in Indian market and have supplies all around are also not getting the approval. As per the policy the BIS numbers allocated to their products will also be cancelled by 30 April 2025. It means, once it happens, all the stock lying with the manufacturers, dealers, SIs and so on will be illegitimate after the denouncement. That will be a big loss for the OEMs. It is expected that the stock valuing nearly INR2000 Crores will be illegitimate and will be subject to confiscation. So, it’s not that we don’t support the policy, we support it whole heartedly but we just request the government an adequate extension of time so we can be able to comply with the policy.
Devash Rastogi
Past President, FAIITA
As the government has mandated and they are intended to secure the data which is being recorded on the IP cameras, but the entire data is presently transferred to the servers in China as primarily the chipset today being used in the cameras are Chinese chipset. This concept of STQC debuted last year in May, whereby they asked the industry to develop their own system to adopt a process where they can ignore the Chinese system, Chinese chips and the Chinese servers. So, basically they want to have the server in India, and restrict the passage of data outside the country. But the main problem is the chipset manufacturing companies which are majorly in China which have got almost 95 to 98 percent market share in the global scenario. They are not prepared to give their route to any other country, nor they are prepared to share the technology so that we can shift the chipset, as they are mainly based on Chinese software.
For the HD cameras, STQC is not an issue. It is an issue only for the IP cameras, and today almost 60 percent of the market are IP. People want to see cameras in their mobile and recordings are done on NVR. But if the STQC is sufficient for the camera alone, there is a question mark. The answer is obviously no, because the cameras are just the photography device, which captures the data; and if the camera is STQC certified what about the complete eco system of transmitting the data which comprises NVR, router, server and so on. Are they also not to be STQC certified? Nearly 100 percent production of NVR is in China. So the issue is if only the STQC certified cameras fulfil the purpose of national data security. The answer is a big NO! Besides as only 120 models of three to four companies are approved the cost of products will be monopolistically high which is not good for the industry and nation. It will have a long term adverse impact on the projects, market, and the very purpose of the national security.
Navin Gupta
President, FAIITA
As per the latest STQC mandate, if not complied by 9 April 2025, all the installed surveillance cameras will be illegitimate and unusable. Now think of the government functionaries and cameras already installed in government department, law enforcement agencies and so on. What will happen with them? How will the government work and check crime without the cameras. Besides, can just 4 companies are capable enough to avail the supply of the country per month. This is just illogical and impractical. So an adequate extension of time for all the other company can enhance their capabilities to enable themselves as per the STQC norms is very much inevitable.
Asian Professional Security Association (APSA)
Asian Professional Security Association (APSA) under the leadership of Deepankur Mittal has posted their concerns by writing a letter to various Ministries including Meity, MoF, MoC, MHA and so on. By the letter they put forth their concerns regarding the recent STQC mandate and its repercussions on the industry at large. While the association wholeheartedly supported the the government’s vision to enhance national security and establish quality robust benchmark, they also made some reservations in terms of the challenges and disproportionate impact on the MSMEs.
Their issues include:
1. Threat to MSME-led manufacturing and employment:
Many MSMEs have made significant investments to transition from importers to manufacturers in line with the Make in India initiative. The abrupt nimplementation of STQC compliance, without adequate transition timeline and support poses an existential threat to the businesses. This could result in widespread closures and the loss of over 5 lakh jobs, undermining progress under Atmanirbhar Bharat and related schemes.
2. Risk of market monopolization:
The policy’s stringent and immediate implementation may allow only a few large players to survive, thereby monopolizing the market and marginalizing the msmes. This could reduce competition, restrict innovation, and thereby finlly inflate prices – contrary to the goals of a vibrant and self reliant India.
3. Impact on allied industry:
MSME-lead CCTV manufacturing supports a wide ecosystem including cabling, injection moulding, packaging, logistics, and IT accessories. Disruptions in this sector will have a ripple effect across these allied industriescausing further economic strains.
4. Delays due to lack of support mechanism:
SMEs currently lack access to structured guidance, helplines, or dedicated support to navigate STQC processes. The absence of centralized support system is causing delays, miscommunication, and increased compliance costs.
5. Need for SoC level facilitation:
A major bottleneck in STQC compliance lies at the system on Chip level. MSMEs face difficulties engaging with global SoC providers due to lower procurement volumes.
The association requested by their letter for extension of compliance deadline at least for 1 year, a dedicated meeting of Meity and and the members of industry, phased and tiered compliance approach, and reimbursement and financial support mechanism.
Electronic Security Association of India (ESAI)
The Indian surveillance industry has been on an upward trajectory for the last decade. With growing concerns over data security and national threats, the Indian Government has brought in mandatory STQC (Standardization Testing and Quality Certification) compliance for all IP CCTV cameras sold in India from April 9, 2025. But what does this mean for CCTV brands, distributors, system integrators, and the end customers?
How Much Does It Cost to Get STQC Certified?
| The cost of certification depends on the number of camera models: Type | Cost (Approximate) |
| Base Camera Certification | ₹5 Lakhs |
| Additional Camera (Same Series) | ₹50,000 per camera |
Time to get certified: 3 to 6 months
Validity: 3 years (Renewable with the same process)
Why STQC Certification Can Be a Threat to CCTV Brands
1.Grey Market Brands Will Struggle
Many brands in the Indian market rely on Chinese OEMs, changing them frequently and relabeling models. For such brands:
- Every OEM or model change requires fresh STQC certification
- This means repeat costs and longer time-to-market
- If they import only a few thousand units, the cost per unit skyrockets
2. Small Market Share = High Per Unit Cost
Let’s break it down:
- If a brand sells 1 Lakh cameras in 3 years, certification cost per unit is moderate
- But for a brand selling just 10,000 units, the cost per camera becomes unviable
So for low-volume brands, STQC compliance is a financial burden.
Why STQC is an Opportunity for Reputed Brands
1. Reputed Brands Already Have Infrastructure
Companies like CP Plus and Sparsh have:
- Dedicated R&D teams
- Existing relationships with OEMs
- Market share to justify the investment
These brands see STQC as an opportunity to differentiate themselves and drive the “Made in India” and “Make in India” narrative.
2. Reduced Competition from Grey Market Players
STQC will act as a natural filter, weeding out unreliable brands and making room for trusted names to grow
Impact on CCTV Distributors in India
1.Funding Requirements Will Increase
Distributors, especially at the state level, are used to a credit-based business model:
- Chinese OEMs provided long credit periods.
- National distributors extended these terms to local dealers.
With Indian OEMs moving to a strict payment cycle, statewise distributors must now:
- Fund their own inventory.
- Manage cash flow efficiently.
- Possibly bear OD interest costs.
2. Thin Margins Under Threat
Distributors currently operate on a 3% to 5% gross margin. Without extended credit, they need capital or financing arrangements to continue operations—especially during periods of high demand.
Impact on System Integrators & Installers
1.Need for Capital Investment
Installers will face a similar issue:
- No upfront credit from distributors
- Need to stock inventory for large projects
- Must pitch the models already in stock or risk delivery issues later
2. Dependency on Bank Loans or OD
Without access to cheap credit, integrators might need:
- Bank Overdrafts (ODs).
- NBFC loans.
- Partnering with distributors offering extended payment terms (with higher pricing).
Final Thoughts: The Future is Compliant, Secure & Indian
The STQC certification mandate is not just a regulatory move—it’s a revolution in how India views data, security, and surveillance. It favors players who:
- Believe in long-term commitment.
- Invest in quality systems.
- Maintain OEM consistency.
- Offer excellent post-sales service.
If you’re a brand, distributor, or installer, the time to adapt is now. Don’t just comply—capitalize.
Get your systems STQC-ready. Secure your market share before it’s too late.
International Council for Industrial Security, Safety & Management (ICISSM)
STQC (Standardization, Testing and Quality Certification) certification is mandatory for CCTV cameras sold in India.
We at ICISSM welcome this mandatory certification which ensures that CCTV cameras meet essential security and performance standards, aligning with India’s commitment to cybersecurity and surveillance security.
As a common platform representing safety and security professionals in India and abroad, we are representing the needs, demands, requirements and quality concerns of End Users (the career Corporate Security Professionals) related to security products and systems.
The essential requirements related to CCTV installations have given lot of assurance to the concerns of End Users, especially those who are responsible for the security management of critical infrastructures. The security of these establishments of national importance is of paramount concern and no compromise can be made in any respects.
Here’s why STQC certification is mandatory for CCTV cameras in India:
Ensuring Quality and Reliability:
STQC certification guarantees that CCTV cameras are of good quality, reliable, and trustworthy, preventing the use of low-quality or fake cameras.
National Security and Cyber Security:
The certification ensures that CCTV cameras deployed in India are free from any national security concerns and that their major components are sourced from trusted manufacturers.
Compliance with Government Regulations:
The government has mandated STQC certification for CCTV cameras under the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021.
BIS Conformity Assessment:
Manufacturers seeking to sell CCTV cameras in India are required to obtain BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Conformity Assessment, which includes testing and certification against established norms.
Since April 9, 2025, compliance with BIS Safety and ER standards will also be mandatory for all the CCTV cameras sold in India.
Compliance with IOTSCS:
While it is stated that CCTV cameras and Video Surveillance Systems must comply with Essential Requirements (ER) certified under the STQC IoT System Certification Scheme (IOTSCS), the End Users’ Fraternity – International Council for industrial security safety and management fields that these all steps are aimed to provide reliable, trustworthy and dependable components of cctv system does making the entire CCTV system which gives confidence and trust of users and also of public at large.
Areas of Concerns left unattended: Vulnerabilities of PoE cables:
These are with inharrant valuabilities which are required to be examined little more responsibily. These cables can be used for data breaches and transfer to third parties.
Protecting Individual Privacy:
There as question mark here since it is claimed that the certification will help to protect individual privacy rights by ensuring that CCTV cameras are used responsibly and ethically.
The government is yet to put in place regulatory mechanism and processes about assurance that the privacy of anyone is not breached and third party concerns are addressed suitably. It is also not clear as to how the owner of a CCTV system will be held responsible against third party disclosure of CCTV footage of any one, obtained at public places or even at those places which come under the area of focus without explicit permissions.
By-laws in housing society hold few provisions in terms of security measures. This outlines the importance of the Information Technology Act, of 2000 under section 66E which states that capturing an image of an individual’s private parts is a punishable offence. How this provision shall be ensured? The supervisory control of CCTV operators on contract appears to be totally missing
Certifiation of Existing CCTVs: this appears to be sore point for owners of the existing CCTV system as new guideline mandate certification of these existing systems also. Since the requirement of system specifications is based on the threat perceptions of clints, many users are comfortable with their legacy systems which are coaxial cable based CCTV system with the storage based on DVR. The mechanical response to get them certified with extra expenditure without value addition is inharrant with resistance. Everyone is concerned with RoI and small industries, warehouses, workshops and RWAs are the ones who ill afford the additional expenditures.
