DoT CCTV Tender 2025: Complete Analysis of ₹21 Crore Sanchar Bhawan Security Infrastructure Upgrade

Ministry of Communications Launches Major CPSU-Exclusive Surveillance System Procurement

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has released a comprehensive tender for the procurement and installation of a state-of-the-art CCTV Surveillance System at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi. With an estimated contract value of ₹21 Crore, this turnkey project represents one of the most significant government security infrastructure upgrades in 2025, featuring advanced 5MP cameras, enterprise-grade storage systems, and a 5-year comprehensive maintenance contract.

This tender is exclusively open to Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) with proven system integration experience, making it a strategic opportunity for government enterprises looking to expand their security solutions portfolio. The project encompasses not just hardware procurement but complete integration with the existing 139-camera surveillance system, creating a unified security infrastructure covering all 18 floors of Sanchar Bhawan.

What makes this tender particularly significant is its strict adherence to cybersecurity protocols, Make in India mandates, and land border restrictions on equipment sourcing. Bidders must navigate through 38 mandatory technical documents, multiple OEM certifications, and stringent compliance requirements including STQC certification, PPP-MII compliance, and comprehensive quality standards.

💡 Key Highlights at a Glance

• Contract Value: Estimated ₹21 Crore for complete SITC and 5-year CAMC
• Eligibility: Restricted to CPSUs with ₹10 Cr cumulative or ₹5 Cr single project experience
• Timeline: 120 days for complete installation post-award
• Scope: 345 cameras (250 Dome + 95 Box), enterprise servers, 11.2 km fiber cabling
• Integration: Seamless integration required with existing 139-camera system
• Warranty & CAMC: 1 year warranty + 5 years comprehensive annual maintenance
• Compliance: STQC certification, PPP-MII 60% local content, land border restrictions
• Payment Structure: 70% on delivery + 30% on commissioning + quarterly CAMC payments

📊 Tender Overview Structure

📋 Complete Tender Overview

🔧 Project Scope: Detailed Component Breakdown

The DoT CCTV tender encompasses a comprehensive security infrastructure upgrade across four major component categories: surveillance equipment, networking infrastructure, control room setup, and installation services. The total scope includes 345 new cameras that will integrate with the existing 139-camera system, creating a unified surveillance network covering all 18 floors, basement, perimeter, and parking areas of Sanchar Bhawan.

Category A: Surveillance & IT Equipment (Primary Components)

Estimated Category A Value: ₹12-14 Crore (65-70% of total contract)

Critical Analysis: The surveillance equipment represents the core investment, with emphasis on high-resolution cameras capable of 24x7 operation in Delhi's climate (0-50°C). The dual-stream requirement (Full HD @ 25FPS + D1 @ 25FPS) ensures both high-quality recording and bandwidth-efficient remote viewing. The mandatory heater/blower units in box cameras indicate deployment in outdoor/exposed locations.

Category B: Networking Infrastructure (Active Components)

Estimated Category B Value: ₹3-4 Crore (18-20% of total contract)

Critical Analysis: The networking architecture follows a hierarchical design with edge PoE switches connecting cameras, aggregating through Layer 3 core switches. The 240W PoE budget per edge switch allows powering 8 cameras (30W each) at maximum load, with the 150 SFP modules enabling fiber uplinks for distance and electrical isolation.

Category C: Control Room Infrastructure

Estimated Category C Value: ₹0.8-1 Crore (4-5% of total contract)

Category D: Passive Components & Civil Work

Estimated Category D Value: ₹1.5-2 Crore (8-10% of total contract)

Critical Analysis: The extensive cabling requirements (12.6 km CAT 6A + 11.2 km fiber) indicate a complete network re-cabling alongside CCTV installation. The HDPE pipe requirement matching CAT 6A length suggests underground or concealed cable routing throughout the building. The 46 wall-mounted racks distributed across floors will house edge PoE switches close to camera clusters.

Category E: Installation, Commissioning & Project Management

Estimated Category E Value: ₹1.5-2 Crore (8-10% of total contract)

Category F: Warranty & Maintenance Services

Estimated Category F Value: ₹2-2.5 Crore (10-12% of total contract)

Critical Analysis: The 72-month technical support requirement (at daily visit rates) represents significant recurring revenue. The "daily visit only" specification (not resident engineer) is cost-optimized while ensuring regular system health monitoring. The CAMC covers both CCTV and LAN systems, indicating holistic network maintenance responsibility.

💰 Budget Allocation Breakdown

Key Insights from Budget Distribution:

1. Hardware-Centric Investment (65%): The majority of the budget (₹13.5 Cr) goes toward procuring high-end surveillance equipment, servers, and networking gear. This reflects the capital-intensive nature of enterprise security infrastructure.

2. Long-Term Service Revenue (12%): The 6-year maintenance contract (₹2.5 Cr) provides stable recurring revenue and ensures vendor commitment to system performance throughout the operational lifecycle.

3. Integration Complexity (10%): The ₹2 Cr allocated for installation and integration highlights the project's technical complexity, requiring seamless integration with 139 existing cameras and building infrastructure.

4. Network Infrastructure (18%): The significant networking investment (₹3.8 Cr) indicates a parallel network upgrade, with 12.6 km of CAT 6A cabling and 11.2 km of fiber optic cables creating a dedicated surveillance network.

👥 Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Bid?

🔒 Participation Restrictions

This tender follows a highly restrictive eligibility model designed to ensure only capable government enterprises participate. The Department of Telecommunications has limited participation to Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) with proven system integration capabilities, explicitly excluding:

• ❌ Private sector companies (even if technically qualified)
• ❌ Foreign OEMs or their Indian subsidiaries
• ❌ MSMEs, startups, and general contractors
• ❌ State PSUs without central government ownership
• ❌ Joint ventures or consortiums (unless CPSU-led)
• ❌ System integrators without direct CPSU status

This restriction is justified under MHA OM No. D32016/3/2015/(SSO(Pt) dated 20th April 2015 and subsequent guidelines on critical infrastructure security, which mandate government-controlled entities for sensitive installations in central government offices.

Rationale: The restriction ensures:

1. Security Clearance: CPSUs undergo rigorous background checks
2. Data Sovereignty: Government control over surveillance data
3. Long-Term Accountability: PSU stability ensures 5-year CAMC delivery
4. Policy Compliance: Easier enforcement of Make in India and land border restrictions

Experience Requirements

Bidding CPSUs must demonstrate substantial CCTV system integration experience through one of two qualification paths:

Option 1: Diversified Project Experience

• Criteria: Completed at least 3 CCTV projects in office complexes
• Minimum Cumulative Value: ₹10 Crore
• Timeframe: Last 3 financial years (FY 2022-23, 2023-24, 2024-25)
• Documentation Required:
  • Completion certificates from clients
  • Work order copies showing project value
  • Satisfactory performance certificates
  • Project details (scope, cameras deployed, technology used)

Example Qualification Scenario:

• Project 1: ₹4.5 Cr (Ministry of Defense, 2022-23) - 200 cameras
• Project 2: ₹3.8 Cr (Railway Board, 2023-24) - 150 cameras
• Project 3: ₹2.2 Cr (State Government, 2024-25) - 120 cameras
• Total: ₹10.5 Cr ✅ Qualifies

Option 2: Significant Single Project Experience

• Criteria: Completed at least 1 CCTV project in office complex
• Minimum Project Value: ₹5 Crore
• Timeframe: Last 2 financial years (FY 2023-24, 2024-25)
• Documentation Required: Same as Option 1, plus:
  • Detailed project implementation report
  • Technology architecture diagram
  • Proof of successful integration and handover

Example Qualification Scenario:

• Single Project: ₹6.2 Cr (CPWD Building, 2023-24) - 300+ cameras
• Complex VMS integration with access control
• Qualifies: ✅ Meets ₹5 Cr threshold

📋 Mandatory Documentation Checklist

The technical bid requires 38 distinct documents, organized into 7 major categories. Missing even one document can lead to summary rejection:

🚫 Disqualification Triggers

Bids will be summarily rejected without further evaluation if:

1. Prices in Technical Bid: Even a single price mention disqualifies the entire bid
2. Incomplete Documentation: Missing any of the 38 required documents
3. Expired Certifications: STQC, ISO, or other certificates not valid on bid opening date
4. Non-CPSU Status: If bidder is not a genuine Central PSU
5. Experience Shortfall: Failing to meet ₹10 Cr (3 projects) or ₹5 Cr (1 project) threshold
6. Blacklisting Status: If blacklisted by any Central/State Government agency
7. Incorrect OEM: Mentioning multiple OEMs for same product category in Unpriced BoQ
8. Land Border Violation: OEM or their parent company from land-bordering country
9. Non-ONVIF Products: Camera or VMS not listed on ONVIF.org website
10. Technical Deviation: Any deviation from Annexure-I specifications without written approval

🔍 Bid Evaluation Process: Two-Stage Assessment

🔐 Critical Compliance & Certification Matrix

The tender imposes multi-layered certification requirements across cybersecurity, quality management, and policy compliance domains. This section provides a comprehensive mapping of all mandatory certifications:

Cybersecurity Certifications (National Security Priority)

Critical Insight: The STQC Cyber Security Certification is the most stringent requirement, introduced via MeitY Gazette Notification dated 06 March 2024 amending PPO-2017. Cameras without this certification will be rejected outright, as this is a post-bid-publishing mandate covering "CCTV/Video Surveillance Systems for Security."

Quality Management Certifications

🇮🇳 Make in India Compliance (PPP-MII Policy)

The tender mandates strict adherence to Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) - PPP-MII Orders dated 19.07.2024 and 21.10.2024, notified by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and operationalized by DoT:

Form-1 Requirements:

• Must be on OEM letterhead
• Signed by authorized signatory (with specimen signature)
• Declare local content percentage with value breakdown
• Mention manufacturing facility address in India
• Valid for the specific tender ID

Land Border Restrictions (National Security)

As per Rule 144(xi) of GFR-2017, DoE Letter F.No.6/18/2019-PPD dated 23.07.2020, and DPE Memo dated 30.07.2020, the tender enforces absolute restrictions on companies from land-bordering countries:

Prohibited Scenarios:

1. ❌ OEM headquartered in land-bordering country
2. ❌ Parent company or holding company from land-bordering country
3. ❌ Majority shareholding from land-bordering country entities
4. ❌ Common directors with companies from land-bordering countries
5. ❌ IPR/source code/firmware residing in land-bordering country
6. ❌ 3rd party manufacturing subcontracted to land-bordering country companies
7. ❌ Technology transfer (ToT) agreements with land-bordering country OEMs

Required Undertakings:

• From CCTV OEM: Own manufacturing setups shall not have 3rd party manufacturing from any company blacklisted in India or any company sharing land border with India. IPR/copyright of source code of firmware/software shall not reside in countries sharing land borders with India.
• From VMS OEM: IPR & Source Code of offered Video Management Software should not reside in a Country sharing Land Border with India. Software should not be developed/manufactured by an entity in which majority shareholding is from a Country sharing a Land Border with India.
• From Network Switch OEM: OEM should be Original Equipment Manufacturer having IPR, source code in India and should not have ToT from other OEM/manufacturer from land-bordering countries.

Verification Mechanism:

• Bidder submits self-declaration
• DoT reserves right to verify with MHA/MeitY databases
• Any misrepresentation leads to immediate contract termination and 5-year blacklisting

ONVIF Compliance (Interoperability Standard)

The Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF) certification ensures vendor-agnostic interoperability:

Why ONVIF Matters: Prevents vendor lock-in, allows future upgrades with different OEMs, ensures 5-year CAMC sustainability even if OEM discontinues models.

💰 Financial Structure & Payment Terms

The tender follows a milestone-based payment structure designed to balance cash flow for the contractor while protecting DoT's financial interests:

Payment Milestone Table

Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) Structure

The tender requires dual PBG to secure both installation and long-term maintenance commitments:

PBG-1: For SITC Work (Installation Phase)

PBG-2: For CAMC (Maintenance Phase)

Bank Guarantee Format: As per Annexure-J in tender document. Must be from Delhi-based scheduled commercial bank or nationalized bank with branch in Delhi for easy invocation.

Liquidated Damages (LD) for Delays

The contract imposes progressively increasing penalties for installation delays beyond 120 days:

LD Calculation Example:

• Contract Value: ₹21 Crore
• Delay: 32 days (falls in 31-45 days bracket)
• LD: 5% of ₹21 Crore = ₹1.05 Crore
• Adjusted Payment: ₹21 Crore - ₹1.05 Crore = ₹19.95 Crore

Force Majeure Protection: LD waived for delays due to:

• Natural calamities (earthquake, flood, fire)
• National emergency or government orders
• Material non-availability due to global supply chain disruption (with proof)
• Site access denial by DoT for reasons not attributable to contractor

Critical Note: Vendor must notify DoT in writing within 7 days of Force Majeure event occurrence, with supporting evidence.

Penalties for Poor Maintenance Performance

During the 5-year CAMC period, service-level penalties apply for system downtime:

System Downtime Definition:

• Partial Downtime: >20% cameras offline OR VMS recording failure
• Complete Downtime: Control room unable to view/record any camera

24-Hour SLA: Vendor must restore system within 24 hours of fault notification. If restoration requires >24 hours:

• Vendor must provide standby camera (for hardware faults)
• Vendor must provide alternative recording mechanism (for server faults)
• Failure to provide standby equipment: Penalty begins immediately

Fault Notification Mechanisms:

• Phone call to vendor's 24x7 helpline
• Email to designated vendor email ID
• Entry in physical maintenance register at Control Room
• Earliest of the three timestamps considered for SLA calculation

GST and Tax Treatment

Price Structure Requirement: Bidders must quote prices inclusive of all taxes, levies, packing, forwarding, insurance, freight, and F.O.R. destination charges. No price escalation allowed during contract period.

🎯 SWOT Analysis: Strategic Assessment for CPSUs

Strengths (Internal Advantages)

Weaknesses (Internal Challenges)

Opportunities (External Favorable Factors)

Threats (External Adverse Factors)

🏆 Competitive Landscape Analysis

Likely Bidders (CPSU Ecosystem)

Based on the tender eligibility criteria (CPSUs with ₹10 Cr cumulative or ₹5 Cr single project experience in CCTV system integration), the following CPSUs are most likely to bid:

Competitive Positioning Matrix

Strategic Insights:

1. BEL (Top Right - Premium Technical): Strong technical credentials may be offset by higher pricing. Likely to bid if defense order book has capacity.

2. RailTel (Center - Sweet Spot): Best positioned with balance of technical expertise and competitive pricing. Recent metro CCTV successes provide strong reference.

3. BSNL (Bottom Left - Budget Player): May offer lowest price but faces technical evaluation risks due to limited recent CCTV project track record.

4. TCIL (Center-Left): Mid-tier positioning. May win on ministry relationships but needs strong technical partners.

5. ECIL (Top Right - Niche Premium): High-quality but may price themselves out of consideration for cost-conscious DoT.

Winning Strategy for CPSUs

⚠️ Risk Assessment & Mitigation Framework

High-Impact Risks (Probability: Medium to High)

Medium-Impact Risks (Probability: Low to Medium)

📚 Comprehensive FAQ for Bidders

Eligibility & Participation

Q1: Can a private system integrator bid if they partner with a CPSU?

No. The tender explicitly restricts participation to CPSUs only. Even if a private company partners with or subcontracts through a CPSU, the primary bidder must be a CPSU with direct experience in CCTV system integration. Joint ventures or consortiums are not permitted unless specifically approved by DoT in writing.

Q2: Does the ₹10 Crore experience requirement include only CCTV work, or can it include broader IT infrastructure projects?

The experience must be specifically for "CCTV projects in office complexes." General IT infrastructure projects (LAN/WAN, data centers, etc.) without significant CCTV components will not qualify. However, integrated projects (e.g., smart building with CCTV + access control) can be considered if the CCTV component value is clearly separable and meets the threshold.

Q3: If our CPSU has ₹12 Crore CCTV experience but across 5 projects (not 3), do we qualify?

Yes, you qualify. The requirement states "at least 3 projects" with cumulative ₹10 Crore value. Having more than 3 projects is acceptable and may even strengthen your bid as it demonstrates broader experience.

Technical Compliance

Q4: The tender requires STQC certification for cameras, but our preferred OEM's certification is "in process." Can we submit with a provisional certificate or commitment letter?

No. The tender explicitly states: "The specified features/parameters/certifications must be available on the Technical Bid Opening Date. Features/parameters/certifications proposed to be available in near future/on roadmap shall not be considered." Bids with provisional or "expected" certifications will be summarily rejected. Choose only OEMs with valid STQC certification on the day of bid submission.

Q5: Can we offer a camera with 4MP resolution instead of 5MP if it meets all other specs and is cheaper?

No. The technical specifications in Annexure-I are minimum requirements. Offering lower specs (even if marginally) will result in technical non-compliance and bid rejection. You can, however, offer higher specifications (e.g., 8MP camera) at the same or competitive price, which may be viewed favorably.

Q6: We want to offer cameras from OEM-A and VMS from OEM-B. Is this allowed?

Yes, as long as:

1. Both OEMs provide separate Manufacturer Authorization Letters (MALs)
2. Both products are ONVIF-compliant and verified compatible
3. Camera and VMS OEMs are different entities (no conflict)
4. Both meet all individual certification requirements
5. Integration testing is demonstrated if requested during technical evaluation

Q7: The tender requires "same OEM" for all passive networking components (CAT6, fiber, patch panels). Can we use different OEMs for electrical components like power cables?

Yes. The "same OEM" requirement applies specifically to structured cabling components (CAT6, fiber cables, jacks, patch panels, patch cords). Electrical components (power cables, PVC conduits) can be from different OEMs as explicitly stated in the tender document.

Pricing & Commercial

Q8: Items in Category C and D can be increased/decreased by 50%. How does this affect our L1 calculation?

The L1 calculation is based on your quoted total tender price (X+Y) as submitted in the financial bid. If DoT later increases/decreases quantities in Categories C/D by up to 50%, the payment will be adjusted proportionately based on your unit rates, but this does not affect the L1 selection. Your total quoted price determines L1 status, not potential variations.

Q9: Should we include GST in our quoted prices?

Yes. The tender requires "F.O.R. Destination, inclusive of all levies & taxes and packing & forwarding charges." Your financial bid should include:

• Base equipment cost
• GST @ 18% (or applicable rate)
• Packing, forwarding, freight, insurance
• All other statutory levies

Quote the all-inclusive final price per item. DoT will not pay any additional taxes or charges beyond your quoted rates.

Q10: Can we claim price escalation if equipment costs increase during the 6-year contract?

No. The tender has no price escalation clause. Your quoted prices are fixed for the entire contract duration (1-year warranty + 5-year CAMC). Factor inflation and currency fluctuation risks into your initial pricing.

Performance Bank Guarantee

Q11: The tender requires 3% PBG. Can we submit a Fixed Deposit Receipt (FDR) instead of a Bank Guarantee?

The tender specifies "Demand Draft on any scheduled bank at Delhi in favour of 'Pay & Accounts Officer, Department of Telecom HQ, New Delhi-110001'" or Bank Guarantee (format in Annexure-J). Check if FDR is acceptable by querying during pre-bid meeting. Typically, govt. tenders prefer Bank Guarantees for easy invocation, but DD is explicitly mentioned as acceptable.

Q12: We need to submit two separate PBGs (one for SITC, one for CAMC). Can we submit a combined single PBG covering both?

No. The tender requires:

1. PBG-1: 3% of SITC value, valid till 60 days after warranty completion
2. PBG-2: 3% of CAMC value, submitted at warranty end, valid till 60 days after CAMC completion

These must be separate because PBG-1 is released only after PBG-2 is submitted. A combined PBG will not meet this staggered release requirement.

Integration & Existing System

Q13: The tender mentions integrating with 139 existing cameras. Can we know the make/model of these cameras before bidding?

You should request this information during the mandatory site visit or by written query to ADG-IT III. The existing camera details are crucial for VMS selection. If DoT does not provide this information, specifically ask during the pre-bid meeting and ensure it's clarified in the corrigendum.

Q14: What if the existing 139 cameras are not ONVIF-compliant? How do we integrate them?

The tender requires "seamless integration with DoT existing 139 CCTV System." Your VMS must support:

1. ONVIF Profile S (for new cameras)
2. Legacy protocols: RTSP, HTTP, proprietary protocols for existing cameras

Select a VMS with wide OEM compatibility (500+ supported camera models). If needed, propose protocol converter gateways (budget ~₹50,000-1,00,000) to bridge non-compliant cameras.

Warranty & CAMC

Q15: The warranty starts after "successful operation for minimum one month under supervision of DoT-trained staff." Does this mean warranty starts 30 days after commissioning?

Yes. The warranty clock starts after:

1. Complete SITC and commissioning
2. Training of 10 DoT officials
3. 30-day trial operation under DoT staff supervision
4. Formal handover and acceptance by DoT

This typically means warranty begins 4-5 months after installation start (120 days install + 30 days trial). Plan your warranty manpower deployment accordingly.

Q16: During the 5-year CAMC, who bears the cost of spare parts?

The contractor (you) bears all costs during CAMC. This is a Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract, meaning:

• Spare parts: Contractor's cost
• Consumables (CDs, tapes if any): Contractor's cost
• Replacement cameras/switches (if faulty): Contractor's cost
• Manpower: Contractor's cost (with EPFO/ESIC reimbursement by DoT)

Only catastrophic damages due to DoT negligence (e.g., intentional destruction) may be billable separately with DoT approval.

Q17: The "daily visit" resource requirement for 72 months seems expensive. Can we deploy a resident engineer instead?

No. The tender explicitly states: "1x Technical Resource for Daily Visit only (Morning/Evening). (Not a resident engineer for 10-5 PM)." This is a deliberate cost-optimization by DoT. You must deploy a technician who:

• Visits site daily (morning OR evening, ~1-2 hours)
• Performs system health checks
• Attends to any reported issues

Deploying a full-time resident engineer when only daily visits are required will erode your CAMC margin. Plan for a technician who can service multiple sites in Delhi.

Compliance & Certifications

Q18: Our server OEM is a US-based company with Indian subsidiary. Does the "land border restriction" apply?

Land border restrictions apply to countries sharing land borders with India (Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar). US-based companies are not affected by these restrictions. However, ensure:

1. The server is not manufactured in China (even if US brand)
2. The majority shareholding is not from a land-bordering country entity
3. The Indian subsidiary has local manufacturing/assembly (for 60% Make in India compliance)

Verify the server's country of origin and supply chain carefully.

Q19: The tender requires "PPP-MII compliance" and "Form-1." What exactly is Form-1, and who issues it?

Form-1 is a self-declaration format specified in the PPP-MII (Public Procurement Preference to Make in India) policy notification dated 21.10.2024. It must be issued by the OEM (not the bidder) on their letterhead, declaring:

• Percentage of local content in the product
• Manufacturing/assembly location in India
• Value breakup of local vs. imported components

You must obtain Form-1 from each OEM for products requiring Make in India compliance (cameras, switches, servers, workstations, UPS, VMS). Submit these with your technical bid.

Q20: Can we get the tender timeline extended if we need more time to arrange certifications?

You can request a deadline extension during the pre-bid meeting, but it's granted at DoT's discretion. Common reasons for extension requests:

• Insufficient time to arrange OEM authorization letters
• Public holidays falling near deadline
• Clarifications received too close to deadline

However, do not rely on extensions. Start OEM engagement and certification collection immediately upon tender download. Extensions are not guaranteed.

🚀 Actionable Recommendations: Step-by-Step Bidding Roadmap

Phase 1: Pre-Bid Preparation (Days 1-15 from Tender Issue)

Critical Actions:

1. Day 1-2: Eligibility Self-Assessment

   • Review your CPSU's past 3 years of CCTV projects
   • Calculate cumulative project value (must be ≥₹10 Cr OR single project ≥₹5 Cr)
   • Collect completion certificates, work orders, and performance certificates
   • If shortfall, identify partnerships or decide not to bid

2. Day 3-5: Mandatory Site Visit

   • Call ADG-IT III (011-2303-6277) to schedule visit
   • Bring: Measuring tape, camera, notebook, laptop
   • Document:
     • Existing 139 camera OEMs/models (critical for VMS compatibility)
     • Control room location and available space
     • Cable routing paths (floors, basements, outdoor)
     • Electrical power availability at each floor
     • CISF security procedures (for contractor access)
   • Take photographs (with DoT permission) for design team

3. Day 3-7: OEM Partner Identification

   • Camera OEM: Verify STQC certification at [STQC website]
     • Shortlist: Check ONVIF.org for profile compliance
     • Request: Sample camera for testing, MAL draft, certifications
   • VMS OEM: Request PoC with existing camera samples
     • Check: OWASP certification, FIPS-140-3, CMMI L-3
     • Verify: Minimum 3 deployments of 1500+ cameras
   • Network OEM: Verify TEC/TSEC certifications
     • Check: NSE/BSE listing, 15-year India presence
     • Confirm: IPR in India, no land border violations
   • Server/Storage OEM: Check Gartner Magic Quadrant
     • Verify: PPP-MII 60% compliance capability
     • Ensure: Same OEM for server and storage

4. Day 8-10: Pre-Bid Queries Preparation

   • Queries to ask DoT:
     • Exact make/model of 139 existing cameras
     • Control room final location (if not finalized)
     • Site access hours for installation (24x7 or restricted?)
     • Any planned building renovation during project period
     • Clarification on "daily visit" resource requirements

5. Day 11: Pre-Bid Meeting Attendance

   • Submit authorization letter as per Annexure-K
   • Attend meeting, take detailed notes
   • Collect contact details of DoT officials

6. Day 12-15: Review Corrigendum

   • DoT may issue corrigendum addressing pre-bid queries
   • Revise solution design based on clarifications
   • Update OEM partnerships if needed

Phase 2: Technical Bid Preparation (Days 16-35)

Weeks 3-4: Documentation Assembly

Technical Bid Checklist Verification (Day 32-33):

• Use Section-3 Checklist from tender document
• Verify all 38 documents are collected and paginated
• Ensure NO PRICES mentioned anywhere in technical bid
• Get legal team sign-off on all undertakings
• Obtain authorized signatory approval on tender acceptance letter

Technical Bid Upload (Day 34-35):

• Upload on GeM portal 48 hours before deadline
• Do NOT wait until last minute (server issues common)
• Take screenshots of successful upload confirmation

Phase 3: Financial Bid Preparation (Days 16-35, Parallel to Technical)

Costing Assumptions for ₹21 Crore Target:

Margin Optimization Strategy:

• If your quote is ₹22.58 Cr and you estimate competitors at ₹21-24 Cr, you're competitive
• To achieve L1, consider reducing margin in high-value items (cameras, servers) by 2-3%
• Do NOT compromise on quality/warranty to chase L1—DoT values post-sales support
• Factor in 5-year CAMC manpower cost realistically (attrition, salary hikes)

Phase 4: Bid Submission & Follow-Up (Days 36-40)

Day 36-37: Final Review

• Cross-functional team review: Technical, Finance, Legal, BD
• Simulate technical evaluation using tender checklist
• Verify financial bid calculations (₹21 Cr ballpark)
• Obtain CEO/MD approval on bid pricing

Day 38-39: GeM Portal Submission

• Login to GeM portal with DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)
• Upload Technical Bid PDF (clearly marked "TECHNICAL BID - NO PRICES")
• Upload Financial Bid separately (as per Annexure-D format)
• Pay portal fees if applicable
• Submit 48 hours before deadline
• Download acknowledgment receipt

Day 40: Bid Closing Day

• Do NOT attempt to submit on closing day (high risk)
• Monitor GeM portal for any last-minute corrigendum
• Keep team on standby for any urgent clarifications

Post-Submission (Days 41-60):

• Technical Bid Opening: DoT will open on scheduled date, may take 15-20 days to evaluate
• Stay Engaged: If DoT requests PoC/demo, respond within 48 hours
• Financial Bid Opening: Only if technically qualified (DoT will notify 3-5 days in advance)
• Negotiation: If prices deemed high, DoT may call L1 for negotiation—have walk-in rates ready
• Award: If L1 and price reasonable, expect LoA within 7-10 days of financial bid opening

Phase 5: Post-Award Execution (Days 1-120 from Award)

Week 1: Contract Formalities

• Submit 3% PBG (₹55-60 lakhs) within 15 days
• Sign contract agreement
• Receive Work Order
• Kick-off meeting with ADG-IT III

Week 2-4: Detailed Engineering (20 days)

• Conduct detailed site survey with engineering team
• Finalize camera locations (coordinate with CISF for security areas)
• Prepare detailed drawings:
  • Camera mounting locations (floor plans)
  • Cable routing diagrams (vertical/horizontal)
  • Rack layout and power distribution
  • Network IP addressing scheme
  • Integration architecture with 139 cameras
• Get drawings approved by DoT

Week 5-8: Procurement (30 days)

• Release POs to OEMs for all equipment
• Track delivery timelines (servers: 3-4 weeks, cameras: 2-3 weeks)
• Arrange customs clearance for imported items (if any)
• Inspect received material (joint inspection with DoT)
• Store material securely at site (coordinate with CISF)

Week 9-14: Installation (40 days)

• Deploy civil contractors for trenching and conduit laying
• Install racks on each floor (46x 9U + 6x 42U)
• Lay fiber backbone (11.2 km) and CAT6A horizontal cabling (12.6 km)
• Mount cameras (coordinate floor-wise to minimize disruption)
• Install PoE switches in floor racks
• Install core switches, servers, storage in control room
• Terminate all cables (patch panels, LIUs)

Week 15-16: Testing & Commissioning (15 days)

• Network testing (cable certification, link tests)
• Camera connectivity tests (all 345 cameras live)
• VMS installation and configuration
• Integration testing with 139 existing cameras
• Video quality validation (day/night, various lighting)
• Recording and playback tests (30-day storage verification)
• Failover testing (server redundancy)
• User interface training for Control Room staff

Week 17: Trial Operation (30 days from commissioning)

• System handover to DoT-trained staff
• Vendor support engineer on-site daily
• Monitor system performance 24x7
• Address any teething issues immediately
• Maintain detailed log of system uptime

Week 17+: Final Acceptance & Warranty

• DoT issues Final Acceptance Certificate after 30-day trial
• Release of 30% commissioning payment
• Warranty period begins (1 year)
• CAMC period begins after warranty (5 years)

📊 Industry Context & Market Outlook

Government CCTV Surveillance Market in India

The Indian government's CCTV procurement market has witnessed exponential growth driven by Smart City missions, public safety initiatives, and national security mandates:

Market Size:

• FY 2023-24: ₹8,500 Crore (government CCTV tenders)
• FY 2024-25 (Est.): ₹11,200 Crore
• FY 2025-26 (Projected): ₹14,500 Crore
• CAGR: 28-32% (2023-2028)

Key Drivers:

1. Smart City Mission: 100 smart cities each deploying 2,000-5,000 cameras
2. Safe City Projects: MHA funding for CCTV in 62 cities
3. Critical Infrastructure Protection: Power plants, airports, government buildings
4. Nirbhaya Fund: Women's safety-focused CCTV deployments
5. Border Surveillance: BSF/ITBP procuring thermal + optical cameras

Technology Trends Shaping Future Tenders

Competitive Positioning for Future Tenders

Winning CPSUs will differentiate through:

1. End-to-End Capability: Not just integration, but manufacturing, R&D, cybersecurity

   • Example: BEL manufacturing own cameras + VMS = 100% Make in India

2. AI/ML Partnerships: Tieups with IIT/IIIT for indigenous AI algorithms

   • Example: RailTel + IIT Delhi for railway video analytics

3. Cybersecurity Centers of Excellence: In-house STQC testing labs

   • Example: ECIL's secure product development for defense

4. Pan-India Execution: Ability to handle 10-20 simultaneous projects

   • Example: TCIL's multi-state project management

5. Sustainability Focus: Solar-powered cameras, edge AI (low bandwidth)

   • Example: BSNL's green network initiatives

🎓 Key Takeaways for CPSUs

Top 10 Success Factors

1. ✅ Perfect Compliance: 38 documents, zero deviations. Technical evaluation is pass/fail.

2. ✅ STQC Non-Negotiable: Only bid if camera OEM has valid STQC cyber security certificate on bid opening date.

3. ✅ VMS Compatibility: Test integration with existing 139 cameras before bidding. Request camera list from DoT.

4. ✅ Make in India Documentation: Obtain Form-1 from all OEMs declaring 50-60% local content with value breakdown.

5. ✅ Land Border Diligence: Conduct thorough due diligence on OEM ownership, manufacturing, and IPR location.

6. ✅ Realistic CAMC Pricing: 72-month manpower + spares costs ₹40-45 lakhs. Don't underbid CAMC to win L1.

7. ✅ 120-Day Timeline: Aggressive but achievable. Pre-order servers/storage. Work nights/weekends for installation.

8. ✅ Integration Complexity: This is not a greenfield project. Seamless integration with legacy 139 cameras is critical.

9. ✅ Daily Visit Resource: Not a resident engineer. Optimize for multi-site daily visits to control CAMC costs.

10. ✅ Long-Term Relationship: This is a 6-year engagement. Deliver quality; DoT is a key reference client for future tenders.

Red Flags to Avoid

📞 Contact Information & Important Dates

DoT Contact Details

Critical Dates (To be confirmed on GeM Portal)

Important Links

• GeM Portal: https://gem.gov.in
• DoT Website: https://www.dot.gov.in
• STQC Certification: https://www.stqc.gov.in
• ONVIF Product Database: https://www.onvif.org/conformant-products/
• Make in India Policy: https://www.makeinindia.com/ppp-policy
• MHA Guidelines on CCTV: Search for OM D32016/3/2015/(SSO(Pt) dated 20.04.2015

📝 Conclusion: Seize This Strategic Opportunity

The DoT CCTV Tender 2025 represents a ₹21 Crore revenue opportunity with a 6-year relationship potential (1 year warranty + 5 years CAMC). For CPSUs with the requisite experience (₹10 Cr/3 projects or ₹5 Cr/1 project), this is a low-competition, high-value tender that can significantly enhance your portfolio and credentials.

Why This Tender Matters:

1. Strategic Client: Ministry of Communications is a key stakeholder in India's digital infrastructure. Successful delivery here opens doors to DoT circle offices, BSNL, and telecom PSU projects.

2. Technical Showcase: Integration with 139 legacy cameras demonstrates advanced system integration capabilities—a differentiator for future smart city and critical infrastructure tenders.

3. Compliance Mastery: Meeting 38 document requirements, STQC certification, PPP-MII compliance, and land border restrictions proves your CPSU's operational maturity.

4. Long-Term Revenue: The 5-year CAMC ensures recurring revenue of ₹50 lakhs annually, improving your order book visibility and customer lifetime value.

5. Competitive Positioning: With only 5-8 eligible CPSUs likely to bid, your chances of winning (if well-prepared) are significantly higher than open tenders.

Final Call to Action:

✅ Start Immediately: Download tender, conduct site visit, engage OEMs (especially for STQC certification verification)

✅ Build the Right Team: Form a cross-functional bid team (Technical, Compliance, Finance, Legal, Project Management)

✅ Choose OEMs Wisely: Prioritize STQC-certified, ONVIF-compliant, Make-in-India certified OEMs with no land border issues

✅ Price Competitively: Target 10-12% margin, don't underprice CAMC (72-month commitment is costly)

✅ Deliver Impeccably: If awarded, execute within 120 days, deliver seamless integration, and provide stellar CAMC service

This tender is not just a one-time contract—it's a 6-year partnership with a prestigious central government ministry. Deliver well, and you'll be the preferred partner for DoT's future technology modernization projects.

Good luck with your bid! May the best CPSU win.