3. Notice Inviting Tender

The procurement process for any project developed through a PPP framework commenced with the issue of a Notice Inviting Tender (NIT). NIT should be published in the manner set out in the procurement laws applicable to the concerned jurisdiction in which the project is to be implemented. Generally, NIT is published in daily newspapers with a wide circulation. It is useful to publish it in at least one English newspaper and one in the regional language. The public entity may, at its discretion, issue NIT documents in newspapers of other languages, including foreign languages.

Based on the nature of the procurement and the potential bidders, NIT could also be issued in trade journals, tender bulletins, or business publications or other periodicals. The public entity should also publish NIT on its own website and on the centralized PPP e-procurement website of the Government of India.

The following information should be clearly indicated in the NIT/advertisement.

1. Name and address of the public entity, the designation and address of the tender inviting public entity;

2. Brief information about the scheme/project/programme;

3. Period up to which, and places from where, the bid document can be obtained;

4. Amount of earnest money deposit/bid security payable;

5. Date and time for receipt of proposals;

6. Date, time and place for opening of proposals;

7. Website details of the procuring entity from which the interested parties can download the bid documents;

8. Cost of RFQ document; and

9. Any other information which the tender inviting Authority considers relevant.