TSPs now need approval of NCSC for expansion of existing network utilizing non-Trusted Products

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) today issued an amendment to the Unified Access Services License (UASL), Unified License (UL), and Unified License (Virtual Network Operator) {UL(VNO)} agreement regarding the procurement of telecommunication equipment.

The Telecom Department has amended Part I, Chapter-VI, Security Conditions clause. As per the amended clause, the aforementioned licensees now need to seek permission from the Designated Authority i.e National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC) for the expansion of the existing network utilizing telecommunication equipment that has not been designated as Trusted Products.

Earlier, the existing clause in respective licenses mandated TSPs to seek the permission from Designated Authority for the up-gradation of the existing network utilizing telecommunication equipment that has not been designated as Trusted Products.

Effective 15th June 2021, telecom service providers are mandated to only connect Trusted Products in their network. The Trusted Telecom directive however doesn’t affect the ongoing Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) or updates to existing equipment already inducted into the network as of the date of effect.