TEMA welcomes Govt. decision on National Security Directive on Telecom sector

The Cabinet Committee on Security has recently announced the National Security Directive on Telecommunication Sector, which will mandate service providers to purchase equipment from trusted sources.

Law and Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the directive has been framed from the perspective of national security.

Prof NK Goyal, Chairman Emeritus, TEMA has praised the government decision and said, "TEMA welcomes this critical decision to amend the license condition of telecom operators to incorporate the National Directive on Security in Telecom.  This was much awaited. This is a critical decision taken in the interest of National Security. It is hoped that this will go long way in making the Indian telecom networks secure and safe. This will also promote domestic manufacturers, as there is some relaxation for them as per directives. It is also gratifying to note that from 15th June only Trusted products shall be allowed to be CONNECTED. TEMA  compliments the PM Modi JI and secretary Sh Anshu Prakash and his team for this historical decision. One more important step towards Atma Nirbhar Bharat".

As per the circular by DoT issued on March 10, 2021, the designated authority will have the right to impose conditions for the procurement of Telecommunication Equipment on grounds of the Defence of India for national security.

Under the provisions of this directive, the government will declare a list of trusted sources and trusted products for installation in the country's telecom network.

The DoT will suitably notify guidelines and ensure monitoring of compliance by telecom service providers of the directive.