Bringing wireless equipment into India for testing, demonstrations, or trials just got a lot clearer. The Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) WPC Wing has published guidelines.
Your End-of-License Playbook: Know Your Deadline
- If You Cancel Your License: You have 90 days from the date you submit your cancellation request to dispose of the equipment.
- If Your License Expires: An automated notice will be issued, and you have just 30 days to complete the disposal. During this grace period, the gear is considered held under a “deemed NDPL” (Non-Dealer Possession License).
- If Your License is Terminated by the Government: This is the most urgent scenario. Due to a violation of terms, you have only 15 days to dispose of the equipment.
In all cases, a disposal certificate must be submitted to the WPC Wing as proof of compliance.
Four Paths to Compliance: How to Dispose of Your Equipment
So, what does “disposal” actually mean? The WPC has laid out four approved methods, giving you clear, compliant options to choose from.
- Re-Export: The simplest path is often to return the equipment to its source of origin.
- Return to an Authorized Dealer: You can hand the equipment back to a dealer who is authorized by the WPC Wing/WMO to handle wireless equipment.
- Transfer to Another Licensee: The equipment can be transferred to another entity that holds a valid license for a similar type of device or frequency assignment.
- Destroy the Equipment: You can opt for destruction, but it must be done in a way that renders the device incapable of transmission or reception. This process must be witnessed by a WMO officer or DPL holder. (Government departments can self-certify).
Need to Keep the Gear? There’s a License for That
What if your project is delayed, or you want to retain the equipment for a future R&D cycle? You can hold onto the equipment legally by obtaining a regular Non-Dealer Possession License (NDPL) from the concerned WMO field office. This is a crucial provision for companies with ongoing R&D activities in India.
