DoT Notifies Telecom eServices Portal Under Regulatory Sandbox Rules 2026

Businesses developing new telecom products and technologies often face an important challenge: how can they test an innovative solution under real operating conditions while meeting the country's regulatory requirements?

India's telecom regulatory sandbox framework is intended to address this need. On 21 October 2026, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, issued notification S.O. 5737(E), officially designating the Telecom eservices Portal for the digital implementation of the Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026.

The notification was issued under Rule 12 of the Rules. It identifies the government's designated digital platform for implementing the framework. At the same time, the separately notified Regulatory Sandbox Rules explain who can submit proposals, what testing conditions may apply and how approved activities will be supervised.

For telecom service providers, equipment developers, startups and research organisations, the development is relevant when planning controlled testing of new telecommunications solutions. However, the notification does not make sandbox registration compulsory for every telecom business.

Understanding the difference between a sandbox proposal, a temporary regulatory exemption and a regular telecom approval is important before starting the application process.

Notification at a Glance

The most important point is that this notification designates the portal. It does not independently introduce new eligibility conditions, fees or testing obligations. Those matters are covered under the Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026.

Understanding the Regulatory Framework Behind the Telecom eservices Portal

India's telecom regulatory sandbox framework is supported by the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and the rules issued under it.

Section 27 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 provides for regulatory sandboxes to encourage innovation and technological development. It allows testing under specified conditions, including temporary relaxations from certain regulatory requirements where legally permitted. To implement this framework, the Central Government notified the Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026, through G.S.R. 905(E) on 21 October 2026.

The Rules came into force upon their publication in the Official Gazette on the same date. They establish the process for creating regulatory sandboxes, considering proposals, selecting participants, setting testing conditions and monitoring approved activities.

Role of Rule 12 in Digital Implementation

Rule 12 permits the Central Government to notify one or more portals for implementing the Regulatory Sandbox Rules digitally.

It also covers the digital provision of forms, directions, orders, guidelines and other requirements specified under the Rules. Using this provision, DoT officially designated the Telecom eServices Portal through S.O. 5737(E). This creates a formal connection between the regulatory sandbox framework and the government's designated digital platform.

What Is a Telecom Regulatory Sandbox and How Does It Work?

A telecom regulatory sandbox is a controlled environment where approved telecommunications innovations can be tested under specified regulatory conditions.

Developing a new telecom service or technology does not always mean it is ready for commercial use. Before entering the market, developers may need to evaluate technical performance, network compatibility, security, reliability or user-related risks.

Some testing activities may also raise regulatory questions that cannot be addressed through ordinary laboratory testing alone. A regulatory sandbox allows the Government to consider such testing within an approved environment, with defined limits and safeguards.

Under the 2026 Rules, a sandbox may cover telecommunications services, networks, equipment, technologies, products, processes or business models.

Main Features of a Telecom Regulatory Sandbox

• Controlled testing environment: Testing takes place within the scope approved by the Central Government.
• Limited test users: Where users are involved, participation is voluntary and subject to the applicable safeguards.
• Defined validity period: Sandbox activities can operate only within the permitted duration.
• Conditional regulatory exemptions: Specific exemptions may be allowed where justified and legally permitted.
• Government supervision: The Government may monitor testing, request reports and issue directions.
• Exit requirements: Approved applicants must follow the conditions governing completion or closure of testing.

A sandbox is not a general permission to launch a telecom product without meeting regulatory requirements.

Even after successful testing, commercial deployment remains subject to applicable laws and government decisions.

What Has Changed Under the DoT Notification of 21 October 2026?

The notification formally designates the Telecom eServices Portal as the digital implementation platform for the Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026. This is an administrative development with practical relevance for businesses considering regulatory sandbox participation.

Official Recognition of the Telecom eServices Portal

Businesses now have an officially notified government portal associated with the implementation of the sandbox framework.

The Rules provide for applicants to submit proposals in the form and manner specified on the portal. They also allow the Government to publish sandbox-specific conditions, directions and other relevant information through the designated digital platform.

Digital Access to Regulatory Requirements

The framework provides for digital administration of various regulatory processes.

Depending on the requirements specified by the Government, businesses may need to refer to the portal for proposal formats, supporting information, sandbox conditions, extension requests or reporting instructions. The exact online application steps and availability of a dedicated sandbox module should be checked directly on the official portal.

Does the Notification Introduce New Compliance Obligations?

The notification does not impose a universal application or registration requirement on telecom businesses. It does not automatically grant testing approval, remove licensing obligations or allow unrestricted commercial deployment. Businesses planning to participate must instead review the separate Regulatory Sandbox Rules and the conditions applicable to the proposed activity.

Why Has DoT Notified the Telecom eservices Portal?

A regulatory sandbox involves more than allowing a company to test a new product. The Government must assess proposals, identify the permitted testing activities, define the responsibilities of approved applicants and monitor results. An officially designated digital platform provides a channel through which regulatory information and prescribed processes can be administered.

For interested businesses, this can make it easier to identify the relevant government platform and locate requirements specified under the Rules. The designation may also support more organised communication between applicants and the Government. However, the notification does not guarantee faster approvals, lower compliance costs or automatic acceptance of applications.

Who Can Apply for a Telecom Regulatory Sandbox in India?

Rule 2 of the Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026 defines the categories of applicants who may submit proposals under Rule 4.

The framework is not limited to existing telecom operators. It also recognises certain companies, organisations, individuals and research institutions.

Eligible Applicants Under the 2026 Rules

Being included in an eligible category does not guarantee approval.

The Central Government examines proposals under Rule 4 and may request additional information before accepting or rejecting them.

Difference Between an Applicant and an Approved Applicant

An applicant is an eligible person or organisation that submits a proposal for creating a regulatory sandbox. An approved applicant is an applicant approved by the Central Government, or a person authorised by it, for creating, operating and managing a sandbox. Participants are separately required to satisfy the eligibility conditions specified for the particular sandbox.

Test users are individuals who voluntarily take part in the testing environment. These distinctions matter because the legal responsibilities of managing a sandbox are not the same as simply participating in testing.

Which Telecom Products and Technologies Can Be Tested Under the Regulatory Sandbox?

The Regulatory Sandbox Rules cover a broad range of potential telecommunications activities. Under Rule 5, the Government may specify the networks, services, equipment, processes, technologies, products and business models permitted within a particular sandbox.

Telecom Equipment and Network Technologies

Businesses developing new telecom equipment or network-related solutions may consider whether controlled testing is appropriate for their innovation.

Testing may help developers assess technical performance, equipment compatibility, operational reliability and potential risks within the approved scope. However, equipment testing under a sandbox does not automatically replace applicable regulatory certification requirements.

Telecommunications Services and Digital Communication Models

The framework can also accommodate new telecommunications services and business models where testing is considered appropriate by the Government. The permitted activities, participants and safeguards depend on the conditions specified for the particular sandbox.

Emerging Telecommunications Technologies

Developers working on advanced communications systems, connected devices or newer network technologies may examine whether the sandbox framework is relevant to their proposed testing.

For example, businesses working on 5G-related applications or Internet of Things communication technologies may have testing needs that warrant regulatory assessment. These are possible areas of application, not automatically approved categories. Eligibility depends on the actual proposal and the Government's decision.

How to Apply for a Telecom Regulatory Sandbox in India?

Rule 4 establishes the process for creating regulatory sandboxes. The Central Government may create a sandbox on its own initiative after assessing the need for one. It may also consider a proposal submitted by an applicant independently or in response to a government request for proposals. 

Businesses interested in proposing should understand the following process.

Step 1: Identify the Purpose of Testing

The first step is to clearly understand what the business intends to test. Applicants should be able to explain the technology or service involved, the purpose of testing and why the proposed activity may require a controlled regulatory environment.

They should also assess whether ordinary testing or existing regulatory permissions can meet their requirements. A sandbox proposal should relate to a genuine testing need rather than routine commercial operations.

Step 2: Check Applicant Eligibility

The applicant must fall within the categories recognised under Rule 2.

The proposed activity should also be suitable for consideration under the regulatory sandbox framework. Businesses should carefully review any government-specified conditions relevant to the proposed testing before preparing a formal submission.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Information and Documents

Under Rule 4(2), a proposal must be submitted with information and supporting documents specified through the portal.

The Rules also identify particular categories of information.

The exact format and additional documents must be checked against the requirements specified on the official portal. Applicants should not assume that a generic document checklist will be sufficient for every testing proposal.

Step 4: Submit the Regulatory Sandbox Proposal

The proposal must be submitted in the form and manner specified on the notified portal. Businesses should consult the official Telecom eServices Portal for the latest instructions.

The precise live registration screens, upload process and sandbox application facilities should be independently confirmed before submission.

Step 5: Government Examination and Decision

After receiving the proposal, the Central Government may examine its eligibility and request additional details. The Government may then accept or reject the proposal under Rule 4(4).

An applicant should not begin sandbox testing merely because a proposal has been submitted or the processing fee has been paid. Approval and compliance with the applicable sandbox conditions are separate requirements.

What Is the Regulatory Sandbox Application Fee in India?

The Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026 prescribe a non-refundable processing fee of Rs10,000 under Rule 4(2)(e). This amount applies to the submission of a regulatory sandbox proposal under the Rules.

Businesses should distinguish this government processing fee from the wider costs of preparing and conducting testing. Depending on the proposed activity, those costs may include laboratory testing, technical development, cybersecurity arrangements or other regulatory requirements.

Any professional consultancy charges are separate from the government fee. Applicants should verify the applicable official payment instructions rather than relying on an unverified third-party process.

What Is the Validity Period of a Telecom Regulatory Sandbox?

Under Rule 5(2), the validity period of a regulatory sandbox cannot exceed 24 months. The Central Government may extend the period where it considers an extension necessary. Each extension can be granted for a further period not exceeding 12 months at a time.

Where an approved applicant requests an extension, the request must be submitted at least 30 days before the existing validity period expires, together with the justification and purpose of the extension. The Rules also recognise continuation decisions under Rule 8.

Important Time Limits Under the Rules

These timelines apply to the relevant activities under the Regulatory Sandbox Rules. They should not be confused with a general registration deadline created by the portal notification.

What Compliance Requirements Apply During Telecom Sandbox Testing?

Regulatory sandbox approval comes with responsibilities. The ability to test an innovative product under specified conditions does not mean businesses can ignore consumer protection, data security or other legal requirements.

Rule 6 sets out obligations for approved applicants.

Testing Controls and Participant Management

Approved applicants must comply with the conditions specified for their sandbox and establish mechanisms for managing participants. This includes identifying eligible participants, specifying testing parameters and boundaries, maintaining records of test results and monitoring testing activities.

The approved applicant remains responsible for ensuring that participants follow the applicable sandbox conditions.

Data Protection and Security

Approved applicants must ensure that they and their participants comply with applicable data protection and security laws when onboarding test users.

The Rules do not create a general exemption from data protection requirements. Businesses should therefore consider how personal information will be collected, protected, used and stored during testing.

Prior Consent of Test Users

Where testing involves test users, the approved applicant must explain the purpose and scope of the activity and obtain their prior consent.

Test users must not be charged for participating in the testing environment. This requirement is intended to protect individuals participating voluntarily in an approved sandbox.

Restrictions on Commercial Availability

Rule 6 also requires approved applicants to ensure that the services, technologies, products, processes or business models being tested are not commercially available in the market during the testing period.

Businesses should not treat sandbox participation as an opportunity to begin unrestricted commercial sales. The purpose of a sandbox is controlled testing under approved conditions.

Record Maintenance and Confidentiality

Approved applicants must retain testing records, including work plans, testing methodologies, user consent records and other relevant information.

The minimum retention period is one year after the sandbox validity expires, unless the Government determines a longer period. The Rules also require secure destruction of the relevant records and protection of confidential information.

Approved applicants must maintain confidentiality regarding testing and its results, subject to the Government's ability to publish relevant non-proprietary information under the Rules. They must also comply with the indemnity obligation specified in Rule 6.

How Does DoT Monitor and Evaluate Regulatory Sandbox Activities?

Under Rule 7, the Central Government may monitor and evaluate the performance of a regulatory sandbox. It may request information, reports, testing records and other relevant data from the approved applicant. The Government may also specify the format, frequency and manner of reporting.

Approved applicants must provide the physical or virtual access required by the Government and comply with directions issued for regulatory compliance and the protection of participants and test users.

Comprehensive Testing Report

Rule 7(4) requires approved applicants to submit a comprehensive report within the prescribed timeframe. The report must cover the results and outcomes of testing, test-user feedback, complaints, security concerns, difficulties encountered and the measures taken to address risks.

It must also include relevant details of closure activities and the settlement of contractual and financial obligations, together with any additional information specified by the Government. Maintaining clear and accurate testing records throughout the sandbox period can make this reporting process easier to manage.

Can a Business Commercially Launch Its Product After Sandbox Testing?

Successful sandbox testing does not automatically result in permission for commercial deployment.

Under Rule 8, the Central Government may review the testing outcomes and decide whether to permit continuation, direct closure or allow steps towards commercial deployment in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Telecommunications Act and its Rules.

The Government may also request further information before reaching a decision.

For businesses, the distinction is important.

A product that has performed successfully during controlled testing may still require separate regulatory approvals before entering the commercial market.

The appropriate next step depends on the technology, the applicable laws and the Government's decision.

Can Telecom Regulatory Sandbox Approval Be Suspended or Revoked?

Rule 9 allows the Central Government to suspend or revoke approval for operating and managing a regulatory sandbox in specified circumstances.

These include situations where sandbox activities interfere with an authorised telecommunications network, incorrect or false information has been supplied, applicable conditions have not been followed or participant compliance has not been ensured.

Suspension or revocation may also arise from specified public-interest or national-security concerns, or particular adjudicated contraventions.

For the grounds identified under Rule 9(b), the approved applicant must be given an opportunity of being heard before the decision.

The Government must issue an order recording the reasons for suspension or revocation.

Under Rule 10, fees or charges paid in respect of sandbox approval are not refundable if the approval is suspended, curtailed, revoked or varied.

This makes it important for approved applicants to maintain proper controls throughout the testing period, not only when submitting the initial proposal.

Does the DoT Telecom eservices Portal Notification Introduce a New Licence?

No. The notification does not introduce a compulsory new telecom licence for every business.

S.O. 5737(E) designates the portal for implementing the Regulatory Sandbox Rules. A regulatory sandbox approval is different from a general telecommunications authorisation, a wireless equipment approval or a telecom equipment certificate.

Under Rule 5, the Government may grant certain temporary and specific exemptions from authorisation, assignment or other applicable requirements within an approved sandbox. Where an exemption concerns the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997, the relevant prior consultation requirement must be followed.

Such exemptions are limited to their approved scope and duration. Businesses may still need separate regulatory permissions, depending on the products, networks, frequencies and services involved.

Impact of the Telecom Regulatory Sandbox Rules on Indian Businesses

The new framework is particularly relevant to organisations working on innovative telecommunications solutions. Its practical importance will depend on the proposed testing activity.

Telecom Service Providers

Existing telecommunications operators may examine the sandbox framework when developing new network technologies or services that require controlled testing. They should assess whether the planned activity falls within existing authorisations or requires a separately approved testing arrangement.

Telecom Equipment Manufacturers

Manufacturers developing new communication equipment may need to consider technical testing and regulatory requirements before entering the market. Where a product is covered by applicable telecom equipment certification requirements, businesses must address those obligations separately from sandbox participation.

For relevant equipment, TEC certification services may form part of the wider regulatory assessment.

Technology Startups

For startups developing telecommunications innovations, a regulatory sandbox can provide a framework through which a suitable testing proposal may be considered by the Government. However, startups should first establish whether they meet the applicant eligibility requirements and whether the proposed testing activity is appropriate for the framework.

Research Institutions

Eligible research and development institutions may submit sandbox proposals where the proposed activity meets the requirements of the Rules. The framework is relevant to controlled experimentation, but it does not guarantee approval for research activities.

Wireless Equipment Developers and Importers

Businesses developing or importing wireless products may need to assess other regulatory requirements, including Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) approvals where applicable.

For products covered by the relevant requirements, WPC ETA certification may need separate consideration.

Sandbox participation does not automatically remove such obligations.

What Should Businesses Do After the DoT Notification?

Businesses considering a regulatory sandbox proposal should begin with a clear review of the proposed technology and the legal requirements affecting it.

A practical preparation approach includes:

1. Identify the activity: Determine whether the proposed technology or service requires controlled testing under a regulatory sandbox.
2. Review eligibility: Check whether the applicant meets the conditions under Rule 2.
3. Assess existing test results: Identify the available laboratory reports, technical evidence and other information relevant to the proposal.
4. Review regulatory requirements: Determine which authorisations, assignments or other permissions may be relevant to the proposed activity.
5. Check the official portal: Review the latest instructions, available application facilities and sandbox-specific conditions.
6. Assess safeguards: Consider user consent, data protection, testing security, record maintenance and reporting requirements.
7. Prepare a complete proposal: Ensure that the information submitted is accurate and addresses the requirements under Rule 4.
8. Monitor further directions: Follow any subsequent orders or guidelines issued by DoT.

Businesses that do not intend to participate in a regulatory sandbox are not required by this portal notification alone to submit a proposal.

How Corpseed Can Help with Telecom Regulatory Compliance

For businesses developing telecommunications equipment or wireless products, regulatory planning is not limited to obtaining a single approval. The requirements can differ depending on the product category, technology, intended use and applicable government standards.

Corpseed helps in related compliance areas, including TEC certification, WPC ETA certification and certain wireless experimental licensing requirements. These services may be relevant to equipment manufacturers, wireless product developers and businesses assessing the approvals required for their activities.

TEC Certification Services

Where mandatory testing and certification of telecommunications equipment applies, businesses may need to obtain the relevant TEC certification. Corpseed's TEC Certificate service supports businesses dealing with applicable telecom equipment certification requirements.

WPC ETA Certification Services

Certain wireless devices and equipment operating in relevant frequency bands may require WPC Equipment Type Approval. Corpseed provides WPC ETA certification assistance for products that fall within the applicable requirements.

Experimental Licensing Support

Certain wireless experiments may involve separate licensing requirements. Corpseed also offers an Experimental License in India service for relevant wireless licensing needs.

However, an experimental licence and a regulatory sandbox approval are not the same regulatory permission.

Businesses considering a sandbox proposal should separately confirm whether specific sandbox-related advisory or application assistance is available.

Get Assistance with Telecom Compliance Requirements

Understanding which approval applies can be an important part of planning telecom product development and deployment.

Businesses looking for telecom regulatory compliance services in India can explore the relevant services available through Corpseed and seek assistance with applicable equipment or wireless regulatory requirements.

Key Takeaways

The Department of Telecommunications notified the Telecom eservices Portal on 21 October 2026 through S.O. 5737(E). The notification formally designates the portal for digital implementation of the Telecommunications (Regulatory Sandbox) Rules, 2026. The wider Rules establish the framework for sandbox proposals, applicant eligibility, processing fees, testing conditions, monitoring and government decisions.

Eligible applicants may submit proposals with the prescribed non-refundable processing fee of Rs10,000. A sandbox may initially operate for up to 24 months, subject to the conditions and extension provisions specified under the Rules.

The notification does not make sandbox registration compulsory for all telecom businesses or automatically remove existing licensing and certification requirements. Businesses interested in testing new telecommunications solutions should review the applicable Rules, confirm their eligibility and check the latest official portal requirements before submitting a proposal.