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.

Why is STQC Important for CCTV Cameras?

CCTV cameras are everywhere in India — in streets, shops, schools, offices, and homes. They help keep places safe and stop crimes. But not all cameras are the same. Some work well, and some don’t. That’s why the Indian government has a system to check the quality of these cameras. This system is called STQC.

Let’s learn how STQC has made a big impact on CCTV cameras in India.

Before STQC, many cheap or poor-quality cameras were sold in India. Some of them did not work well at night, some broke easily, and some were not secure. This caused problems in important places like:

• Police stations

• Airports

• Government buildings

• Hospitals and schools

Now, with STQC rules, only tested and certified cameras can be used in many public projects. This has helped improve the safety and trust in these systems.

Gazette Notification & Deadline on STQC

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.

How STQC Has Made a Difference

Here are some ways STQC has changed the CCTV industry in India:

1. Better Quality Cameras

STQC checks video quality, night vision, weather resistance, and more. So, only high-quality cameras get approved.

2. More Cyber Security

Many CCTV cameras today use the internet (IP cameras). STQC makes sure these cameras are safe from hacking and data theft.

3. Boost for Indian Companies

Now, many Indian companies are working to meet STQC standards. This supports the Make in India mission and creates more local jobs.

4. Smart City Support

In smart city projects, STQC-certified cameras are now required. This helps cities stay safe with reliable systems.

5. Customer Trust

People now ask for STQC-certified cameras. It gives them confidence that they are buying a safe and trusted product.

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.

Final Thoughts

STQC has made CCTV cameras in India more safe, more secure, and more reliable. It protects people’s safety and helps in crime control. Whether for government use or personal security, choosing STQC-certified CCTV cameras is a smart and responsible choice.

As India continues to grow smarter and safer, STQC will remain an important part of this journey.

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

Tip: If you’re planning to install CCTV cameras, ask your vendor:👉 “Is this STQC certified?”

It can make a big difference in safety and peace of mind.