India is set to restrict the use of Chinese-origin CCTV cameras and surveillance products starting April 1.
The move targets companies like Hikvision and Dahua Technology due to growing national security concerns.
This step is part of a larger effort by the government to strengthen digital security and reduce dependence on foreign surveillance technology.
New Rules: Certification Now Mandatory
Under the new system, all CCTV cameras sold in India must be approved under the STQC (Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification) framework.
This means:
Only certified products can be sold
Security standards will be stricter
Non-compliant devices may be removed from the market
These rules aim to ensure that surveillance devices are safe and free from potential risks like data leaks or unauthorised access.
Indian Brands Step In to Fill the Gap
The restrictions are expected to hit Chinese brands hard, as they once dominated a large part of India’s CCTV market.
Now, Indian companies are quickly gaining ground.
Brands like CP Plus, Qubo, Prama, Matrix, and Sparsh are expanding rapidly.
Many of these companies are:
Reducing reliance on Chinese components
Using alternative chipsets (like Taiwanese ones)
Building their own software locally
As of early 2026, Indian players now control a major share of the market, while global companies like Bosch and Honeywell focus on the premium segment.
Why This Move Matters
CCTV systems are not just cameras—they are part of critical infrastructure.
They monitor sensitive locations like airports, government buildings, and public transport hubs.
Using foreign-made systems can create risks such as:
Data being sent to foreign servers
Hidden backdoor access
Remote control by external entities
To reduce these risks, the government is tightening rules and encouraging safer, locally controlled technology.
A Bigger Push Against Chinese Tech
This is not the first time India has acted against Chinese technology.
Earlier, the government:
Banned apps like TikTok
Restricted telecom gear from companies like Huawei and ZTE
These steps are all part of a long-term strategy to improve national security and reduce external risks.
A Growing Market with Big Opportunities
India’s CCTV market is already worth billions and continues to grow fast due to:
Smart city projects
Rising urbanisation
Increasing security needs
With Chinese players stepping back, this creates a huge opportunity for Indian manufacturers to expand and lead the market.
Overall, the new rules could reshape India’s surveillance industry—making it more secure, self-reliant, and future-ready.
