Understanding WPC Certification in India

WPC Certification
Shivam Narwal
| Updated: Mar 29, 2023 | Category: WPC

Wireless communication has become an integral part of our lives, and with the growing demand for wireless services, the government of India has taken various measures to regulate the usage of wireless technology. One such measure is the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) certification, which is mandatory for anyone operating radio equipment in India. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of WPC certification, its significance, and the application process.

What is WPC Certification?

The WPC certification is a license issued by the Ministry of Communications, Government of India, to individuals or organizations that use wireless devices such as mobile phones, satellite phones, wireless microphones, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other radio communication devices. The certification is mandated under the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933[1], and the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. The purpose of the certification is to regulate and monitor the usage of wireless devices in India and ensure that they comply with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government.

Why is WPC Certification important?

The WPC certification is important for various reasons, including:

  1. Legal Compliance: The use of wireless devices without a WPC certification is illegal in India. Violators may face penalties, fines, and imprisonment.
  2. Safety: The WPC certification ensures that the wireless devices used in India comply with the safety standards set by the government. This ensures the safety of the users and the environment.
  3. Quality: The WPC certification ensures that the wireless devices used in India comply with the technical specifications set by the government. This ensures the quality of the devices and their performance.
  4. International Roaming: The WPC certification is necessary for the international roaming of mobile phones and other wireless devices. Without the certification, the devices may not work in foreign countries.

Types of WPC Certifications

There are various types of WPC certifications depending on the type of wireless device and the frequency band used. Some of the common types of WPC certifications are:

  1. Equipment Type Approval (ETA): ETA is a certification issued to a manufacturer or importer of wireless devices. It certifies that the device complies with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government.
  2. Wireless Operating License (WOL): WOL is a certification issued to an individual or organization that operates wireless devices in India. It certifies that the device is being used in compliance with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government.
  3. Import License (IL): IL is a certification issued to an importer of wireless devices. It certifies that the device being imported complies with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government.

How to obtain WPC Certification?

The process of obtaining WPC certification involves the following steps:

  1. Determine the type of certification required: The first step is to determine the type of certification required based on the wireless device and the frequency band used.
  2. Submit the application: The next step is to submit the application for certification to the WPC wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The application can be submitted online or offline depending on the type of certification required.
  3. Pay the fees: The applicant needs to pay the fees for the certification. The fees vary depending on the type of certification required.
  4. Test the device: The wireless device needs to be tested by a government-approved testing laboratory to ensure that it complies with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government.
  5. Obtain the certification: Once the device passes the testing, the certification is issued by the WPC wing of the DoT.

Importance of WPC Certification for Different Sectors

The WPC certification is essential for various sectors that use wireless devices in India. Let’s take a look at some of the sectors where WPC certification is mandatory:

  • Telecommunication Sector

The telecommunication sector is the most significant user of wireless devices in India. WPC certification is mandatory for telecommunication operators who use wireless devices such as mobile phones, satellite phones, wireless microphones, and Wi-Fi. WPC certification ensures that the devices used by telecommunication operators comply with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government. This ensures the safety of the users and the environment and ensures the quality of the services provided by the operators.

  • Aviation Sector

The aviation sector uses wireless devices for communication, navigation, and surveillance. WPC certification is mandatory for wireless devices used in the aviation sector to ensure that they comply with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government. This ensures the safety of the passengers and the aircraft and ensures the smooth functioning of the aviation sector.

  • Defense Sector

The defense sector uses wireless devices for communication, surveillance, and other purposes. WPC certification is mandatory for wireless devices used in the defense sector to ensure that they comply with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government. This ensures the safety of the defense personnel and the country and ensures the smooth functioning of the defense sector.

  • Medical Sector

The medical sector uses wireless devices for various purposes such as remote monitoring, telemedicine, and medical imaging. WPC certification is mandatory for wireless devices used in the medical sector to ensure that they comply with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government. This ensures the safety of the patients and the medical staff and ensures the quality of the medical services provided.

WPC Certification Process Online in India

The process of obtaining WPC certification in India has become more accessible with the introduction of an online application system. Let’s take a look at the WPC certification process online in India.

Step 1: Determine the Type of Certification Required

The first step in the WPC certification process online in India is to determine the type of certification required for the wireless device. WPC certification is required for various wireless devices, such as mobile phones, satellite phones, wireless microphones, and Wi-Fi. The type of certification required depends on the frequency range, power output, and other technical specifications of the wireless device.

Step 2: Submit the Application Online

Once the type of certification is determined, the applicant can submit the application online. The application can be submitted on the WPC website or through the government’s eBiz portal. The applicant needs to fill in the necessary details such as device specifications, applicant details, and other relevant information. The applicant needs to upload the required documents such as test reports, certificates, and authorization letters.

Step 3: Pay the Fees Online

After submitting the application online, the applicant needs to pay the fees online. The fees can be paid through the WPC website or the eBiz portal. The fees depend on the type of certification required and the technical specifications of the wireless device.

Step 4: Testing the Device

Once the fees are paid, the applicant needs to test the wireless device as per the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government. The testing can be done by a government-approved testing agency or a self-certification basis. The test reports need to be uploaded along with the application.

Step 5: Obtain the Certification Online

After the testing is completed, and the test reports are uploaded, the WPC certification is issued online. The applicant can download the certificate from the WPC website or the eBiz portal. The certificate includes details such as the name of the wireless device, the frequency range, power output, and the date of certification.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) certification is a crucial requirement for anyone operating radio equipment in India. It ensures legal compliance, safety, and quality of wireless devices, and is essential for international roaming of mobile phones and other wireless devices. The process of obtaining WPC certification has become easier with the introduction of online application systems. The certification is essential for various sectors, including the telecommunication, aviation, defense, and medical sectors, to ensure the safety of users, environment, and smooth functioning of the sectors.

It is clear that the WPC certification plays a significant role in regulating the usage of wireless technology in India. As wireless technology continues to evolve and play an increasingly important role in our lives, it is crucial that we continue to ensure that it is used safely and efficiently. The WPC certification serves as a testament to the Indian government’s commitment to maintaining high standards for wireless technology usage, and we can all benefit from the peace of mind that comes with knowing that our wireless devices comply with the technical specifications and safety standards set by the government.

Also Read: Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) APPROVAL IN INDIA

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Shivam Narwal

Shivam Narwal, a motivated final year BBA LLB law student at Chandigarh University, has started his legal career at Swarit Advisors as a legal researcher. With a strong focus on thorough and accurate research, Shivam is dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Throughout his studies, he has shown a deep understanding of the legal system and a drive to excel in the field of Law. 

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