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Para 4.11.1 - Single Tender Enquiry | KartavyaDesk

Goods Manual

Original Rule Text

Risk Mitigation 1. The same but more heightened risks than PAC are present in this mode. The selection of a single vendor may be nontransparent and unjustified. The same mitigation strategies as in the case of PAC should apply. Procurements on an STE basis should be made from reputed firms after determining the reasonableness of rates. The procurement powers for STE should be severely restricted.

What This Means

Para 4.11.1 of the Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2017, deals with Single Tender Enquiry (STE) procurements. STE is when you buy something from only one vendor. The rule recognizes that STE carries significant risks, similar to Proprietary Article Certificate (PAC) procurements, but potentially even higher. This is because choosing a single vendor can be seen as unfair or lacking transparency if not properly justified. Think of it like this: you're not comparing prices or options, so you need to be extra careful.

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

Key Points

  • STE procurements carry heightened risks of non-transparency and unjustified vendor selection.
  • Mitigation strategies similar to PAC procurements should be applied to STE.
  • Procurements should be made from reputed firms after determining the reasonableness of rates.
  • Procurement powers for STE should be severely restricted.

Practical Example

The Ministry of Jal Shakti needs to urgently procure specialized water testing equipment. Due to a specific technical requirement, only 'AquaSolutions Pvt. Ltd.' claims to manufacture a compatible device. Before proceeding with a Single Tender Enquiry, the procurement officer, Mr. Sharma, must demonstrate that no other vendor can supply a suitable alternative. He needs to document the reasons for choosing AquaSolutions, compare their quoted price with market rates for similar equipment (even if not directly comparable), and obtain approval from a higher authority due to the restricted procurement powers for STE. The reasonableness of AquaSolutions' rate of ₹5,00,000 must be thoroughly justified and documented.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Single Tender Enquiry (STE)?
STE is a procurement method where goods or services are purchased from a single vendor without competitive bidding.
Why are STE procurements considered risky?
Because the selection of a single vendor may be non-transparent and unjustified, potentially leading to inflated prices or compromised quality.
What are the key mitigation strategies for STE procurements?
Similar to PAC, mitigation includes demonstrating the uniqueness of the requirement, justifying the selection of the single vendor, ensuring the reasonableness of rates, and obtaining necessary approvals.
Are there restrictions on procurement powers for STE?
Yes, procurement powers for STE are typically severely restricted to ensure oversight and prevent misuse.
How do I determine the reasonableness of rates in STE?
Compare the vendor's quoted price with market rates for similar goods or services, even if not directly comparable. Obtain expert opinions if necessary.

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 4.11.1 of the Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2017, what is a primary risk associated with Single Tender Enquiry (STE) procurements?

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