Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) requirement for NSWS portal in India

The Indian government launched the National Single Window System (NSWS). This portal helps businesses apply for approvals online. It makes the process easy, fast, and paperless.

One important part of this system is the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). Many forms and approvals on NSWS need a DSC. In this article, we explain what DSC is.
We also explain why and how to use it.

What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

A Digital Signature Certificate is like a digital ID. It proves your identity on the internet. It helps you sign documents in a secure way.

A DSC works just like your handwritten signature. But it is safer and faster for online use.The Indian government approves many agencies to issue DSCs.

Why is DSC Needed on the NSWS Portal?

The NSWS portal deals with official approvals. Many of these are legal and sensitive in nature. The government wants to protect data and identity. DSC ensures only the real person signs the form. It prevents misuse and protects from fraud. With DSC, the signature cannot be changed later. Using DSC also saves time and avoids paperwork. You can sign and send documents in seconds.

Who Needs a DSC on NSWS?

Not everyone needs a DSC on NSWS. But many business and legal forms do need it. You may need a DSC if you are:

A company director or business owner
A startup applying for approval
A consultant submitting applications for clients
A representative applying on behalf of an organization

Check the specific approval form to know more. If DSC is required, the form will clearly show it.

Where to Get a DSC in India

You must buy a DSC from a registered agency or DSC providers. These are also called Registration Authorities (RAs).

Popular DSC providers in India include:

Apicountry
ePass2003
HYP2003
SataSign
WD Proxkey

You can visit their websites to apply for DSC. You must give ID proof and some documents. You may also need to do video KYC.

Types of DSC Used on NSWS

There are three types of DSC: DGFT, Document Signer, and Class 3.

For NSWS and other official use, Class 3 DSC is needed. This is the most secure type of digital signature. It is used for government filings and tendering. NSWS accepts only valid Class 3 DSCs. You can get a DSC with or without encryption. Usually, a signing DSC is enough for NSWS purposes.

Steps to Get a DSC

Follow these steps to get your DSC:

Choose a Registration Authority online
Fill the DSC application form
Upload your photo and ID documents
Do video verification, if required
Pay the DSC fee online
Download or receive the DSC on USB token

The USB token stores the DSC securely. You can plug it into your system when needed.

How to Use DSC on NSWS Portal

Using DSC on NSWS is easy. Here is how you do it:

Plug the DSC token into your laptop or desktop
Go to NSWS Portal, India.
Login with your NSWS user ID and password
Fill your application form for approval
Click on “Sign using DSC” before final submission
Select the DSC certificate from the pop-up
Enter your token password to confirm
Submit the signed form

Your document is now digitally signed and valid.

Benefits of Using DSC on NSWS

Using DSC has many clear benefits:

Saves time: No need to print and sign
Increases safety: Keeps your data secure
Adds trust: Shows the document is genuine
Easy to use: Works with just a few clicks
Legal proof: Accepted in all Indian courts

All businesses should use DSC to stay compliant. It makes the whole process smooth and paperless. Things to keep in mind before using DSC, check these important points:

Make sure your DSC is not expired
Use only Class 3 certificates
Install the required drivers for the token
Use a laptop or PC, not a mobile phone
Keep your DSC password safe
Do not share your token with others

Always test your DSC before submitting the form. If it does not work, contact your provider quickly.

What to Do if DSC Is Not Working

Sometimes, DSC may not work on the portal. Here are some quick solutions:

Restart your computer
Re-insert the USB token
Check if Java or DSC drivers are installed
Try using another browser like Internet Explorer
Make sure pop-ups are allowed on your browser

If problems still occur, call NSWS support. They help with DSC issues and portal errors.

The Digital Signature Certificate is very important. It gives your NSWS application legal validity and safety. It proves your identity in the online process. All serious businesses must get a DSC today. It is useful for NSWS and other portals too. DSC is easy to use and fully safe.

If you plan to use the NSWS portal, check if DSC is needed for your approvals. If yes, get a Class 3 DSC in advance. It will help you save time and avoid delays.