India, Aug. 19 -- India's telecom infrastructure boom faces an unexpected constraint. As the telecom ecosystem players race to expand 5G networks, BharatNet connecting remote villages, and the revival plans of BSNL, a critical shortage has emerged: electro-chromium co-polymer coated steel (ECCS) tape; think of it as a body armour for the fibre.

This armoured tape is needed to rust-proof, strengthen and protect the Optic Fibre Cables (OFC) from corrosion, physical damage and moisture, making it an indispensable input in India's connectivity.

The current shortage stems from the intersection of quality improvement initiatives and supply chain realities. In January 2025, the Ministry of Steel implemented Quality Control Orders (QCO) requiri...