The radiation norms for mobile handsets will not be applicable on import of devices for research and development purposes or on gifts sent by people living abroad, the Department of Telecom has said.
As per the norms that are already in place, the specific absorption rate (SAR) value of mobile phones is limited up to 1.6 watt per kg averaged over a mass of one gram of human tissue.
All the companies manufacturing or importing mobile phones for sale in India have to ensure that the handsets are compliant with radiation norms.
However, sources said, DoT has clarified in response to a query that the radiation norms are "not applicable to individuals to whom mobile phones are sent as gift by the family members or friends living abroad and for the mobile handsets imported for R&D purpose and as a sample".
The source said for R&D purpose, the quantity should be small like one or two devices and it should be demonstrated by the importer that the devices would not be sold in the market.
He added that DoT has already written to the Customs Department on exempting imported mobile handsets from fulfilling the SAR requirement when the imports are declared for R&D purpose.
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