Follow India Renewable Energy News on WhatsApp for exclusive updates on clean energy news and insights

Centre Mandates ‘Trusted’ IT Equipment in Power Sector to Bolster Cybersecurity

In response to heightened cybersecurity threats following Operation Sindoor, the Ministry of Power has mandated the use of 'trusted' IT and telecom equipment across India’s power sector to protect critical infrastructure. This directive, inspired by similar practices in the telecom industry, aims to fortify transmission grids and distribution systems through strict vetting protocols.

As per a June 5 memorandum, beginning January 1, 2026, all IT equipment and services deployed in the power sector must be cleared via the Trusted Telecom Portal, which is overseen by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). While this regulation will not affect existing infrastructure or ongoing AMC contracts, the Ministry will soon publish a detailed list of equipment subject to clearance.

A Coordination Cell will be established to streamline the implementation process, working with nodal officers across power entities. The trusted source designation entails rigorous vetting by over 10 ministries, and while global majors like Ericsson, Nokia, and Samsung are approved, Chinese firms like Huawei and ZTE remain excluded.

Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal confirmed a spike in cyberattack attempts post-Operation Sindoor, all of which were successfully countered. Industry experts, including NK Goyal of the Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association, hailed the move as a "historic decision" that enhances sector resilience and urged timely listing of trusted products by August 1, 2025, to ensure compliance.

This landmark policy reflects India’s broader push for cyber-secure infrastructure and aligns with national security priorities for critical sectors like power, telecom, and finance.