Telecommunications (Radio Equipment Possession
Authorisation) Rules, 2026
[DoT Notification G.S.R.592(E)
dated 8 July, 2026]
·
Notification Issued: The
Ministry of Communications (Department of Telecommunications) has notified the Telecommunications
(Radio Equipment Possession Authorisation) Rules, 2026 under the
Telecommunications Act, 2023. The Rules come into force immediately upon
publication in the Official Gazette on 8 July 2026.
·
Objective: The Rules establish a
comprehensive framework governing the authorisation, possession, testing,
demonstration, renewal, surrender, disposal, and compliance relating to
radio equipment.
·
Who Can Apply:
o
Companies and LLPs complying with applicable FDI
policy.
o
Sole proprietors and partnership firms holding
valid business licences/registrations.
o
Central/State Governments and designated agencies.
o
Existing licensees under the Indian Wireless
Telegraphy (Possession) Rules, 1965.
·
Purposes for Authorisation:
o
Manufacture, import, purchase, sale, hire, repair,
testing or demonstration of radio equipment.
o
Import, purchase or hiring solely for testing or
demonstration purposes.
·
Application Process:
o
Applications must be submitted through the
designated online portal.
o
Non-refundable application fee of ₹1,000.
o
Applicants must furnish equipment details (make,
model and quantity).
o
Equipment capable of blocking telecommunications
requires prior permission under Section 48 of the Act.
·
Transition Provision:
o
Pending applications under the Indian Wireless
Telegraphy Act, 1933, lapse if licences were not issued before commencement of
these Rules.
o
Previously paid fees may be adjusted against the
new application fee.
·
Grant of Authorisation:
o
Government may conduct eligibility verification and
security vetting.
o
Eligible applicants receive a Letter of Intent
specifying conditions and fees before authorisation is granted.
·
Authorisation Fees:
o
₹10,000 per year for
commercial possession (manufacture, sale, repair, etc.).
o
₹2,000 per year (minimum
₹500) for testing or demonstration authorisations.
·
Validity Period:
o
Commercial authorisation: 1–5 years.
o
Testing/demonstration authorisation: Up to 12
months.
·
Renewal:
o
Renewal applications should be filed at least one
month before expiry.
o
Delayed applications may be accepted upon payment
of late fees if sufficient cause is shown.
·
Modification of Authorisation:
o
Commercial authorisation holders may apply for
modifications by paying ₹1,000 application fee.
·
Conditions for Possession:
o
Equipment must be stored securely.
o
Equipment must conform to notified standards.
o
Inventory and records must be maintained.
o
Theft, loss or suspected misuse must be promptly
reported.
o
Government inspections and physical verification
must be facilitated.
·
Testing & Demonstration Requirements:
o
Equipment emitting up to 100 milliwatts must
not interfere with telecom networks.
o
Equipment exceeding 100 milliwatts must
comply with spectrum assignment conditions.
·
Transfer Restrictions:
o
Authorisations cannot be assigned or transferred
without Central Government approval.
·
Exemptions from Authorisation:
o
Existing telecom licence holders.
o
Persons exempted under the Telecommunications Act.
o
Spectrum assignees.
o
Amateur radio operators.
o
Users possessing radio equipment supporting not
more than four SIMs.
o
Subscribers using telecom services provided by
authorised entities.
·
Surrender of Authorisation:
o
Holders may surrender authorisation by applying at
least 30 days in advance and clearing applicable dues.
·
Disposal of Equipment:
o
Radio equipment must be disposed of within
prescribed timelines after:
§ Non-renewal,
§ Surrender,
§ Loss of
exempt status,
§ Suspension
or revocation.
o
Disposal procedures and proof must be submitted
through the portal.
·
Government Powers:
o
Government may impose restrictions on testing in
border or sensitive areas.
o
Physical verification may be conducted, including
without prior notice where public interest requires immediate action.
o
Government may issue implementation guidelines
through the portal.
·
Breach of Conditions:
o
Violation of the Rules constitutes a breach under
Section 32 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
o
Penalties include suspension, curtailment or
revocation of authorisation after due process.
·
Digital Implementation:
o
All applications, renewals, reporting, approvals,
and related procedures will be carried out through one or more
Government-notified digital portals.