IoT System Certification Scheme P01 — Procedure for CCTV Testing Evaluation and Certification
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?
Let’s explore the journey of STQC, its impact, and how stakeholders in the surveillance
ecosystem can prepare.
How the STQC Journey Began?
From Tenders to
Transformation
The Railway Tender that Triggered Change
The STQC journey started nearly three years ago with a major Indian Railway tender that
made cybersecurity compliance mandatory. This was a significant move as it involved three
competing entities:
● IDIS – a Korean surveillance technology company
● Sparsh – an Indian CCTV brand
● CP Plus – another leading Indian CCTV brand
While IDIS had an early start in promoting cybersecurity-compliant solutions, it was Sparsh that
became the first company to achieve STQC certification, setting a benchmark for the industry.
CP Plus followed later in securing the certification, while IDIS has yet to obtain it.
Understanding the STQC Mandate for CCTV Cameras
What is STQC Certification?
STQC (Standardization Testing and Quality Certification) is a certification & testing body under
MeitY (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology) that oversees the government-run
compliance process for electronic products in India. It ensures these products meet Indian
standards for quality, safety, and cybersecurity.
Gazette Notification & Deadline:
In 2024, the Indian Government released a gazette notification giving CCTV brands one year
to align their IP camera products with STQC compliance.
From April 9, 2025, it is mandatory that all IP-based CCTV cameras sold in India have
STQC certification.
Where Can You Get STQC Certificates in India?
To obtain certification, brands must go through one of the 21 STQC Labs located across India.
The key steps include:
● Partnering with non-Chinese OEMs
● Signing an MoU with the manufacturing facility
● Submitting technical documentation
● Passing cybersecurity and quality tests
● Trusted supply chain
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)
Certification Fees May Change According to the Most Recent Revision.
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, state-wise 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)
What About Analog HD CCTV Cameras?
Here’s the good news:
STQC is NOT mandatory for Analog HD cameras
So businesses selling Analog HD can continue operations as usual. But remember:
● Analog systems are phasing out slowly
● IP Cameras are the future standard
● Strategic allocation of funds is necessary for long-term success
Is STQC Certification a Threat to End Customers?
Absolutely Not.
Here’s Why:
1. Better Quality Products
With STQC, you’re buying Indian or foreign-manufactured cameras that pass stringent
quality and cybersecurity checks.
2. Assured After-Sales Support
Unlike grey market imports, certified products come with support, warranty, and service.
3. No Spying or Data Risks
STQC ensures that products are free from backdoors or foreign surveillance threats.
4. “Made in India” vs “Make in India”
Made in India – Product is manufactured or assembled locally
Make in India – Initiative to promote local manufacturing by Indian and foreign
firms
The price may rise by 25% to 50%, but you gain long-term trust, security, and support.
Key Takeaways:
STQC Certification for IP CCTV Cameras
Stakeholder Threat or Opportunity? Why
CCTV Brand Opportunity for strong players
.Threat for small players
Depends on market share and
OEM consistency
CCTV Distributor.Threat Cash flow challenges due to
removal of extended credit
System Integrator.Threat Need upfront investment and
better planning
Analog Camera Sellers.Neutral (for now) STQC not applicable to
Analog HD cameras
End Customer Big Opportunity Better quality, no spying risks,
and after-sales support
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.
The above information has been compiled based on insights gathered from
multiple sources within the CCTV industry.
Spreading Awareness Among Security System Suppliers and Installers