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Para 8.3.2 - Document Submission | KartavyaDesk

Consultancy Manual

Original Rule Text

Normally, as far as feasible, no submission of original documents in physical format (other than Cost of Tender Documents, if any, (refer Para 5.5.1 Availability and Cost of Tender Documents), Bid Security and statutory certificates if any) should be asked for in eProcurement. In e-Procurement there could be discrepancies between the uploaded scanned copies and the Originals submitted by the bidder. In offline tenders, discrepancies may be observed in responsive tenders between the original copy and other copies of the same tender set. If discrepancies exist between the uploaded scanned or other copies and the originals submitted by the bidder, the original copy's text, etc., shall prevail. Here also, this issue is to be taken up with the bidder in the same manner as above and subsequent actions taken

What This Means

Para 8.3.2 of the Manual for Procurement of Consultancy Services focuses on document submission during e-Procurement and offline tendering processes. It generally discourages requesting original physical documents, except for specific items like tender document fees (if applicable), bid security (Earnest Money Deposit), and mandatory legal certificates. The core principle is to streamline the process and reduce unnecessary paperwork, especially in online systems. This rule affects all government departments and agencies involved in procuring consultancy services, as well as the consulting firms participating in these tenders.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Key Points

  • Minimize requests for original physical documents in e-Procurement.
  • Exceptions: Tender document fees, Bid Security, and statutory certificates.
  • In case of discrepancies between uploaded copies and originals, the original document prevails.
  • Discrepancies should be addressed with the bidder for clarification and resolution.
  • Applies to both e-Procurement and offline tendering processes.

Practical Example

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is conducting an e-tender for a consultancy service worth ₹50 Lakhs. M/s. SkillUp Consultants submits their bid online, including scanned copies of their experience certificates. However, the tender committee notices a slight difference in the dates mentioned in the scanned copy of one certificate compared to the original submitted physically as a statutory requirement. According to Para 8.3.2, the dates on the original physical certificate will be considered the accurate information. The committee then contacts M/s. SkillUp Consultants to clarify the discrepancy and ensure consistency in their bid.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if there's a difference between the scanned document and the original?
As per Para 8.3.2, the text and details in the original document will be considered the correct and prevailing information.
Does this rule mean we should never ask for original documents?
No. The rule encourages minimizing requests, especially in e-Procurement. However, original documents for tender fees, bid security, and statutory certificates are still permissible and sometimes necessary.
How should we handle discrepancies between copies and originals?
The rule states that you should address the discrepancy with the bidder, seeking clarification and ensuring consistency in their bid. Document the process and the resolution.
What are 'statutory certificates'?
These are certificates required by law or regulation for a company to operate or participate in a tender. Examples include GST registration, PAN card, or industry-specific licenses.
Does this rule apply to all types of procurement?
No, Para 8.3.2 specifically applies to the 'Manual for Procurement of Consultancy Services'. Other procurement manuals may have different rules.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Test Your Knowledge

Question 1 of 3

According to Para 8.3.2 of the Manual for Procurement of Consultancy Services, which of the following original documents should normally NOT be requested during e-Procurement?

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