India’s key telecom connectivity efforts, critical to the Digital India mission, are facing uncertainty due to import restrictions on electro chromium-coated steel (ECCS) tape, a vital component used in manufacturing armoured optical fibre cables (OFC). The move comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions with China, the primary source of ECCS tape.
Several shipments of the tape ordered by domestic OFC manufacturers remain stuck at Indian ports awaiting clearance. ECCS tape is commonly used for shielding and reinforcing underground fibre optic cables, which are essential for deployments under government-led initiatives such as the BharatNet programme. BharatNet aims to deliver high-speed internet connectivity to over 0.65 million villages across the country.
Despite the growing urgency, the government has not yet implemented any long-term resolution. In a recent meeting with importers, authorities agreed to allow imports amounting to one-fourth of the annual ECCS requirement. Meanwhile, companies have been asked to explore domestic sourcing possibilities and submit necessary documentation online, including proof of orders under the BharatNet initiative.
Three firms have so far reportedly applied to import ECCS for BharatNet-related work, but only one has received a no-objection certificate after providing the required documentation. Industry representatives have expressed concerns that this short-term arrangement, valid for only three months, is inadequate. ECCS tape is not only essential for BharatNet but also for OFC production supporting private telecom providers and state-owned telecom infrastructure expansion.
