Procurement Opportunity: Nucleic Acid Sequencing and Genotyping Service - DNA sequencing; Plant; Leaf; To be collected by th in VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH

Q1: How to participate in the nucleic acid sequencing tender issued by ICAR Varanasi?
To participate in this tender for DNA sequencing services, bidders need to register on the GeM portal, complete their vendor profile, and upload all required documentation, including experience certificates, turnover proof, OEM authorizations, and NABL accreditation certificates. The bid submission deadline is August 6, 2025, at 4:00 PM. Ensure that your bid aligns with the detailed specifications such as Illumina platform usage, sample collection process, and data delivery timelines (60 days). Bid security must be submitted as a demand draft, FDR, or bank guarantee. For professional assistance, visit TenderAI GeM Registration. Preparing comprehensive documents and adhering to standards increases your chances of success in this high-value research service bidding process.

Q2: What are the eligibility criteria for bidding on the plant DNA sequencing service tender?
Eligible bidders must have a minimum average annual turnover of INR 40 lakh for the last three fiscal years and possess at least three years of relevant experience in nucleic acid sequencing or related biotech services. The organization should preferably hold NABL accreditation and have prior project experience with government or reputed private organizations. Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) can avail purchase preferences if they meet online validation criteria for credentials. Additionally, OEM authorization certificates are mandatory for authorized service providers. Proper documentation supporting these criteria has to be uploaded along with the bid to qualify for evaluation.

Q3: What are the key technical specifications required for DNA sequencing in this tender?
The tender specifies the use of Illumina sequencing platforms for plant leaf samples, targeting high-quality reads (≥90%) at 5x coverage with high throughput analysis. The output should include primary analysis and raw data delivered on physical media within 60 days. Quality control parameters, such as system output QC metrics, are mandatory to ensure data reliability. The sequencing must be conducted collaboratively, adhering to standards for sample collection, data integrity, and laboratory accreditation (NABL). Employing well-maintained Illumina systems and certified bioinformatics analysis facilities is essential to meet specifications.

Q4: How does the bid evaluation process work for this DNA sequencing tender?
The evaluation is based on the total bid value, with a focus on competitive pricing, technical compliance, and past experience. First, bids are checked for eligibility criteria, including turnover, experience, and certification documentation. The top 50% of technically qualified bidders are shortlisted for Reverse Auction (RA), which is conducted among the lowest-priced bids. Bidders must demonstrate compliance with quality standards and timely data delivery. The lowest technically qualified bid, combined with the bid value, will be considered for awarding. MSE bidders within 15% of the lowest bid receive preference. For detailed guidance, visit TenderAI’s market insights services.

Q5: What documents are mandatory for submitting a bid for the plant genotyping service?
Mandatory documents include:

• Certified copies of past project contracts or orders demonstrating experience
• Audited financial statements or CA certificates for turnover proof
• OEM authorization certificates, if applicable
• NABL accreditation certificate for the testing laboratory
• Bid security deposit via DD, FDR, or bank guarantee made out to ICAR Unit, Varanasi
• Supporting technical and compliance documentation
  Ensuring all documents are valid, complete, and signed digitally is critical to prevent disqualification.

Q6: What are the benefits of MSE status in this DNA sequencing tender?
MSEs qualifying for this tender can avail purchase preferences as per government policies, which increase their chances of order allocation. Benefits include online validation of credentials, procurement under simplified procedures, and potential order size advantages if their bid price is within 15% of the lowest bid. MSEs must upload valid proof of registration, turnover, and experience to claim these benefits. This policy aims to foster inclusive participation, supporting emerging biotech startups and local small-scale laboratories.

Q7: How can service providers ensure timely delivery of sequencing results?
The tender mandates a 60-day timeframe for data analysis and delivery, starting from the collection of samples. To ensure timely delivery, bidders should have an efficient logistics plan for sample collection, secure cold chain management, and advanced sequencing infrastructure. Regular progress updates, quality checks, and contingency plans for technical issues are advisable. Contract compliance with the specified parameters for data quality and timely output is essential to avoid penalties and to secure future government contracts.

Q8: What are the laboratory accreditation requirements for participating in this tender?
All testing and analysis must be performed in NABL-accredited laboratories, ensuring standards of precision, accuracy, and traceability. The accreditation must cover molecular biology and sequencing services. Bidders should upload valid NABL certification copies and include quality assurance measures aligned with national biosafety and testing norms. Supporting certificates from authorized testing bodies enhance credibility, and non-compliance can lead to rejection of bids. Adhering to this requirement guarantees that the generated data will meet government research standards.

Q9: How is the data security and confidentiality maintained in this sequencing project?
The project involves primary raw data and analysis reports delivered on physical media, emphasizing data security protocols. Bidders must ensure proper handling, storage, and transport of sensitive samples, complying with institutional and national data privacy regulations. Moreover, the sample collection and analysis procedures should prevent unauthorized access and cross-contamination. Bidders are encouraged to follow best practices for data encryption, secure physical storage, and proper documentation to maintain confidentiality and integrity of the research data.

Q10: What strategic benefits do participants gain from this genomics project tender?
This project enhances the research infrastructure of India's agricultural sector, providing opportunities for service providers to showcase advanced sequencing capabilities. Besides immediate revenue, successful bidders can strengthen their technical reputation, contribute to national food security initiatives, and gain long-term collaborations with government agencies. Emphasizing quality, compliance, and timely delivery can open avenues for future high-value research tenders and innovation grants. Bidders aligned with government policies on Make in India and MSE development stand to benefit strategically in market positioning.