This scheme helps Indian Start-ups and Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs) in the telecom sector by covering Read More... a portion of their product testing and certification expenses. It aims to boost their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. Read less
Details
Innovation in the telecom sector is crucial for India's growth. To ensure that new telecom products meet quality standards and gain market trust, rigorous testing and certification are essential. Recognizing the financial burden this can place on emerging businesses, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, in collaboration with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has launched a special scheme.
The 'Scheme for Reimbursement of Testing and Certification Charges for Start-ups and Telecom MSEs' is designed to provide financial relief to eligible businesses. It helps cover a significant part of the expenses incurred when getting telecom equipment tested and certified. This support is vital for ensuring that Indian-made telecom products are reliable and ready for deployment, both in India and abroad.
The scheme specifically targets two key groups: recognised Start-ups and Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs) operating within the telecommunication and ICT domains. By easing the financial pressure of testing and certification, the government aims to encourage more innovation and entrepreneurship in this critical sector.
Testing and certification are not just regulatory requirements; they are confidence builders. Certified products assure consumers and businesses of their quality and performance. This scheme acts as a catalyst, helping Start-ups and MSEs achieve these crucial certifications more affordably. This, in turn, enhances their credibility, opens doors to new markets, and contributes to a stronger, more competitive Indian telecom industry.
Objective
Benefits
This scheme provides financial assistance for setting up a Backyard Ornamental Fish Rearing Unit, with a project cost of ₹3,00,000/- per unit.
Mode of Disbursement:60% of the government contribution is from the Government of India, and 40% is from the State Government.
Frequency of Disbursement:The benefit can be availed once in a lifetime.
Sources and references
To apply for reimbursement under this scheme, follow these steps:
To apply for reimbursement, please prepare the following documents:
What is the main goal of this scheme?
The primary goal is to give back a portion of the money that Start-ups and Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs) in the telecom and ICT field spend on testing and getting their products certified. This helps them become more competitive.
Can I claim reimbursement if my product testing was for Research and Development (R&D)?
No, this scheme specifically covers testing and certification for mandatory or voluntary certification of telecom equipment. Reimbursement is not provided for control tests that are part of product research and development (R&D) activities.
What is the deadline for submitting a reimbursement claim?
You need to submit your claim for reimbursement within 3 months from the date the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) issues your product certificate.
Are there any financial limits on how much I can get back?
Yes, the scheme has a maximum reimbursement limit of ₹50,00,000/- for each applicant during the entire duration of the scheme. Additionally, the percentage of reimbursement depends on your business type: up to 75% for Start-ups, up to 60% for Micro Enterprises, and up to 50% for Small Enterprises.
Who is eligible to apply for this reimbursement scheme?
To be eligible, you must be a Start-up registered with DPIIT or a Micro or Small Enterprise registered with the MSME. Your business must be based in India, have an annual revenue not exceeding ₹5,00,00,000/-, and if you're a Start-up, you shouldn't have raised over ₹10,00,00,000/- in funding.
Can I get reimbursed if I'm already getting money from another government scheme for the same testing?
No, you cannot claim reimbursement under this scheme if you have already received or are claiming reimbursement for the same testing and certification charges from any other government scheme. You will need to provide a self-declaration confirming this.
How long will the scheme be available?
The scheme is planned to run for a period of two years from its start date. However, it will end earlier if the total allocated fund of ₹25,00,00,000/- is fully utilized before the two years are up.
Which types of testing and certification are covered by the scheme?
The scheme covers testing and certification charges related to the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) or voluntary certification. The testing must be done at TEC/NCCS designated labs or NABL-accredited labs when TEC facilities aren't available.
Where do I need to go to apply for this scheme?
The application process is online. You can submit your reimbursement claim through the official portal: https://tec.gov.in/tcrs.
What percentage of costs can Start-ups and MSEs get reimbursed?
Start-ups can get up to 75% of their testing and certification costs back. Micro Enterprises are eligible for up to 60%, while Small Enterprises can receive up to 50% reimbursement.