Telcos can buy gear only from 'trusted' vendors as DoT tweaks licence norms

Under the new rules, equipment companies will have to enroll on a website, which will establish whether the firm is a trusted source or not

The Department of Telecommunications on Wednesday amended licensing norms to make it mandatory for operators to procure equipment only from “trusted” vendors. The norms will come into effect from June 15 and could impact Chinese gear vendors.

“The government through the designated authority will have the right to impose conditions for procurement of telecommunications equipment on grounds of defence of India, or matters directly or indirectly related thereto, for national security. In this regard, the licensee shall provide any information as and when sought by the designated authority,” the order said.

Under the new rules, equipment companies will have to