FAQs for Sodium Hypochlorite Supply Tender - Indian Railways, 2025

Q1: How to participate in the Indian Railways Sodium Hypochlorite supply tender in 2025?
To participate, bidders must register on the GeM portal, upload all required documents including valid BIS licenses, ISI marking certificates, NABL lab test reports, past performance proofs, and Udyam registration for MSE benefits. The bid involves supplying 70,000 liters divided into batches, with delivery deadlines specified in the contract. Bidders should carefully prepare technical and financial documents as per tender guidelines. For assistance with GeM registration or profile enhancement, you can visit TenderAI GeM Registration. Ensure compliance with all technical specifications, such as meeting IS 11673 (Part 1) standards, and submit test reports from NABL-accredited labs. Successful registration and document submission are key steps to bidding effectively on government procurement platforms.

Q2: What are the eligibility requirements for supplying Sodium Hypochlorite to Indian Railways?
Suppliers must demonstrate previous experience supplying similar quantities of Sodium Hypochlorite to government entities within the last three years, with at least 20% of bid quantity supplied as per bid documentation. OEMs must possess valid BIS and ISI certifications, including test reports from NABL-accredited labs. MSE and startups with valid Udyam registration gain competitive advantages, including purchase preferences and the possibility to supply a portion of the bid quantity at competitive rates. Resellers must be OEMs or authorized manufacturers. All certificates should be up-to-date and validated online through the Udyam portal.

Q3: How does the bid evaluation process work for this sodium hypochlorite procurement?
The bid evaluation method is based on total value-wise assessment, focusing on the offered price, compliance with technical specifications, and certificate submission. Products must conform to IS 11673 (Part 1), Grade 1, and meet physical-chemical parameters. The evaluation also includes supplier past performance, lab test reports, and certifications. The buyer prefers local suppliers, especially MSEs, which may be given preference if they meet the quality and documentation standards. Bidders might be asked to clarify technical details during a 2-day evaluation window. The final selection will prioritize product compliance, delivery capability, and overall bid competitiveness.

Q4: What specific standards and certifications are required for the Sodium Hypochlorite solution?
Suppliers must provide Sodium Hypochlorite conforming to IS 11673 (Part 1), Grade 1, liquid form, with physical parameters within specified ranges. The product should bear the ISI mark and be tested in NABL-accredited labs. Test reports must confirm parameters such as relative density (1.07–1.18), available chlorine (12.5–15.0%), and iron content (≤2 ppm). The product packaging should be in airtight plastic containers with proper labeling indicating source, batch number, manufacturing date, and chlorine content. Suppliers must ensure all certifications are valid and submitted along with the bid.

Q5: What benefits are available for MSEs and startups in this tender?
MSEs and startups with valid Udyam registration will enjoy purchase preference, allowing them to supply up to 25% of the total quantity if their bid price is within 15% of the lowest bid (L1). These benefits are contingent upon online validation through the Udyam portal and submission of relevant documents. Additionally, the government’s policy supports local content requirements, favoring Class 1 and Class 2 local suppliers. Resellers not OEMs are ineligible for these advantages. The goal is to encourage growth of small and micro enterprises in supplying high-quality Sodium Hypochlorite.

Q6: What documents are critical for bid submission?
Critical documents include valid BIS license and ISI certification, NABL-accredited lab test reports, past performance certificates indicating successful supply of at least 20% of the bid quantity, and Udyam registration for MSE benefits. Bidders must also upload technical compliance certificates reflecting adherence to IS 11673 (Part 1). Missing any mandatory documents can lead to bid rejection. It is advisable to double-check that all certificates are current, valid, and uploaded in the correct format before bid submission.

Q7: What are the delivery requirements and schedule?
The supply involves delivering 15,000 liters per batch at the DRM Office, within 60 days after the start date. Subsequent batches of similar size must be delivered every 60 days, with the entire 70,000 liters scheduled over approximately 6 months. Delivery must meet specified quality standards, including ISI marking and proper packaging. Suppliers should plan logistics carefully, considering transportation, storage, and handling requirements to meet deadlines and maintain product integrity.

Q8: How to ensure compliance with local content and Make-in-India policies?
Suppliers must submit a certificate from the OEM specifying the percentage of local content and details of local value addition. For bids exceeding Rs 10 Crore, statutory auditors or cost accountants must certify the declaration. Only Class 1 local suppliers, as per the Public Procurement Order 2017, are eligible for full benefits. Micro and small enterprises with valid Udyam registration also qualify for preferences. Digital validation through the Udyam portal enhances eligibility, and adherence to these policies can significantly improve bid success rates.

Q9: How can TenderAI assist in participating in this government tender?
TenderAI offers comprehensive support for GeM registration, profile optimization, and certificate management. Our platform ensures your business documents are validated and ready for submission, increasing your chances of winning government contracts. We also provide market insights, bid management tools, and compliance assistance tailored for large-scale procurement tenders like this. Visit TenderAI GeM Registration for a streamlined onboarding process and maximize your government procurement success.

Q10: What are the common pitfalls to avoid in this Sodium Hypochlorite tender?
Common mistakes include submitting expired certificates, incomplete documents, non-compliance with IS standards, or offering unmarked or uncertified products. Failing to understand the delivery schedule or misjudging logistics can lead to delays or penalties. Not adhering to local content policies or providing false declarations also risks disqualification. Ensuring meticulous preparation of all required certificates, test reports, and compliance declarations helps secure a competitive edge and smooth bidding experience.

For detailed guidance and professional assistance in government bidding, visit TenderAI.