Edited by C. F (Aug 10, 2011) – For submission to HOPs (July 28, 2011)
STANDARD PROCUREMENT DOCUMENTS
Standard Request for Proposals
Empanelment of Consultants
National Skill Development Corporation
4th June 2019
Standard Request for Proposals
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1. EMPANELMENT OF CONSULTANT REQUEST
FOR PROPOSALS
Empanelment of Consultants for Desk Assessment and Physical Inspection of ‘Training Providers and Training Centres’ for Accreditation & Affiliation and Continuous Monitoring.
Department: Centre Accreditation, NSDC
Issued on: 4th June 2019
Standard Request for Proposals
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CLAUSES
National Skill Development Corporation .................................................................................... i
1. REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS .............................................................................................. ii
PART I ........................................................................................................................................ 1
Section 1. Letter of Invitation .................................................................................................. 1
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants and Data Sheet ............................................................ 3
A. General Provisions ............................................................................................................... 3
1. Definitions ..................................................................................................................... 3
2. Introduction .................................................................................................................. 4
3. Conflict of Interest ........................................................................................................ 5
4. Unfair Competitive Advantage ..................................................................................... 6
5. Corrupt and Fraudulent Practices ................................................................................. 6
6. Eligibility ........................................................................................................................ 6
B. Preparation of Proposals ..................................................................................................... 8
7. General Considerations........................................................................................ 8
8. Cost of Preparation of Proposal ........................................................................... 8
9. Language .............................................................................................................. 8
10. Documents Comprising the Proposal .................................................................. 8
11. Only One Proposal ............................................................................................... 9
12. Proposal Validity .................................................................................................. 9
13. Clarification and Amendment of RFP ................................................................. 10
14. Preparation of Proposals – Specific Considerations .......................................... 11
15. Technical Proposal Format and Content ........................................................... 11
16. Financial Proposal .............................................................................................. 11
C. Submission, Opening and Evaluation ................................................................................ 12
17. Submission, Sealing, and Marking of Proposals ................................................ 12
18. Confidentiality .................................................................................................... 13
19. Opening of Technical Proposals ......................................................................... 14
20. Proposals Evaluation .......................................................................................... 14
21. Evaluation of Technical Proposals ..................................................................... 14
22. Financial Proposals for QBS ............................................................................... 15
23. Public Opening of Financial Proposals (for QCBS, FBS, and LCS methods)........ 15
24. Correction of Errors ........................................................................................... 15
25. Taxes .................................................................................................................. 16
26. Conversion to Single Currency ........................................................................... 16
27. Combined Quality and Cost Evaluation ............................................................. 16
D. Negotiations and Award .................................................................................................... 17
Master Document for Empanelment of
Consultants
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28. Negotiations ....................................................................................................... 17
29. Conclusion of Negotiations ................................................................................ 18
30. Award of Contract .............................................................................................. 18
E. Data Sheet .......................................................................................................................... 19
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms ................................................................... 27
1. Checklist of Required Forms .....................................................................................
2. Form TECH-1 ......................................................................................................... 28
3. Form TECH-2 ......................................................................................................... 31
4. Form TECH-3 ......................................................................................................... 33
5. Form TECH-4 .............................................................................................................
6. Form TECH-5 ......................................................................................................... 34
7. Form TECH-6 .............................................................................................................
Section 4. Financial Proposal - Standard Forms ..................................................................... 37
Section 5 .................................................................................................................................. 42
Section 6. NSDC Policy – Corrupt and Fraudulent Practices .................................................. 44
Section 7. Terms of Reference ............................................................................................... 45
Section 8. Tentative Contract terms ……………………………………………………….52
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PART I
Section 1. Letter of Invitation
To, All Prospective Bidders
Dear Mr. /Ms.:
1. National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), the client, invites proposals to provide the
following consulting services (hereinafter called “Services”): “Empanelment of
Consultants for Desk Assessment and Physical Inspection of ‘Training Providers and Training Centres’ for Accreditation & Affiliation and Continuous Monitoring” More
details on the Services are provided in the Terms of Reference (Section 7).
2. It is not permissible to transfer this invitation to any other firm.
3. A firm will be selected under Least Cost Selection (LCS) procedures and in Full
Technical Proposal (FTP) format as described in this RFP, in accordance with NSDC
Procurement Guidelines.
4. The RFP includes the following documents:
Section 1 - Letter of Invitation
Section 2 - Instructions to Consultants and Data Sheet
Section 3 – Full Technical Proposal (FTP) - Standard Forms
Section 4 - Financial Proposal - Standard Forms
Section 5 – Proposal Securing Declaration
Section 6 – NSDC – Corrupt and Fraudulent Practices
Section 7 - Terms of Reference
Section 8 - Standard Forms of Contract
5. Details on the proposal’s submission date, time and address are provided in Clauses 17.7
and 17.9 of the ITC.
Yours sincerely,
Procurement, NSDC
Email:[email protected]
Website: www.nsdcindia.org
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Section 2. Instructions to Consultants and Data Sheet
A. General Provisions
1. Definitions (a) “Affiliate(s)” means an individual or an entity that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common
control with the Consultant.
(b) “Applicable Guidelines” means the policies of NSDC
governing the empanelment and Contract award process
as set forth in this RFP.
(c) “Applicable Law” means the laws of India.
(d) “Client” means NSDC which shall sign the Contract for the
Services with the selected Consultant.
(e) “Consultant” means a legally-established professional
consulting firm or an entity that may provide or provides
the Services to the Client under the Contract.
(f) “Contract” means a legally binding written agreement signed between the Client and the Consultant and
includes all the attached documents listed in its Clauses.
(g) “Data Sheet” means an integral part of the Instructions to Consultants (ITC) Section 2 that is used to reflect specific
country and assignment conditions to supplement, but
not to over-write, the provisions of the ITC.
(h) “Day” means a calendar day.
(i) “Experts” means, collectively, Key Experts, Non-Key
Experts, or any other personnel of the Consultant, Sub-
consultant or Joint Venture member(s).
(j) “Joint Venture (JV)” means an association with or without a legal personality distinct from that of its members, of
more than one Consultant where one member has the
authority to conduct all business for and on behalf of any
and all the members of the JV, and where the members of
the JV are jointly and severally liable to the Client for the
performance of the Contract.
(k) “Key Expert(s)” means an individual professional whose skills, qualifications, knowledge and experience are critical
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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to the performance of the Services under the Contract and
whose CV is taken into account in the technical evaluation
of the Consultant’s proposal.
(l) “ITC” (this Section 2 of the RFP) means the Instructions to
Consultants that provides the shortlisted Consultants with
all information needed to prepare their Proposals.
(m) “LOI” (this Section 1 of the RFP) means the Letter of
Invitation being sent by the Client to the shortlisted
Consultants.
(n) “Non-Key Expert(s)” means an individual professional provided by the Consultant or its Sub-consultant and who
is assigned to perform the Services or any part thereof
under the Contract and whose CVs are not evaluated
individually.
(o) “Proposal” means the Technical Proposal and the Financial Proposal of the Consultant.
(p) “RFP” means the Request for Proposals to be prepared by the Client for the empanelment of Consultants, based on
the SRFP.
(q) “SRFP” means the Standard Request for Proposals, which must be used by the Client as the basis for the preparation
of the RFP.
(r) “Services” means the work to be performed by the Consultant pursuant to the Contract.
(s) “Sub-consultant” means an entity to whom the Consultant
intends to subcontract any part of the Services while
remaining responsible to the Client during the
performance of the Contract.
(t) “TORs” (this Section 7 of the RFP) means the Terms of
Reference that explain the objectives, scope of work,
activities, and tasks to be performed, respective
responsibilities of the Client and the Consultant, and
expected results and deliverables of the assignment.
2. Introduction 2.1 The Client named in the Data Sheet intends to select a
Consultant in accordance with the method of empanelment
specified in the Data Sheet.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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2.2 The shortlisted Consultants are invited to submit a
Technical Proposal and a Financial Proposal, or a Technical
Proposal only, as specified in the Data Sheet, for consulting
services required for the assignment named in the Data Sheet. The
Proposal will be the basis for negotiating and ultimately signing the
Contract with the selected Consultant.
2.3 The Consultants should familiarize themselves with the
local conditions and take them into account in preparing their
Proposals, including attending a pre-proposal conference if one is
specified in the Data Sheet. Attending any such pre-proposal
conference is optional and is at the Consultants’ expense.
2.4 The Client will timely provide, at no cost to the Consultants,
the inputs, relevant project data, and reports required for the
preparation of the Consultant’s Proposal as specified in the Data
Sheet.
3. Conflict of Interest
3.1 The Consultant is required to provide professional,
objective, and impartial advice, at all times holding the Client’s interests paramount, strictly avoiding conflicts with other
assignments or its own corporate interests, and acting without any
consideration for future work.
3.2 The Consultant has an obligation to disclose to the Client
any situation of actual or potential conflict that impacts its capacity
to serve the best interest of its Client. Failure to disclose such
situations may lead to the disqualification of the Consultant or the
termination of its Contract and/or sanctions by NSDC.
3.2.1 Without limitation on the generality of the
foregoing, the Consultant shall not be hired under the
circumstances set forth below:
a. Conflicting
activities
(i) Conflict between consulting activities and procurement
of goods, works or non-consulting services: a firm that
has been engaged by the Client to provide goods, works,
or non-consulting services for a project, or any of its
Affiliates, shall be disqualified from providing consulting
services resulting from or directly related to those
goods, works, or non-consulting services. Conversely, a
firm hired to provide consulting services for the
preparation or implementation of a project, or any of its
Affiliates, shall be disqualified from subsequently
providing goods or works or non-consulting services
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resulting from or directly related to the consulting
services for such preparation or implementation.
b. Conflicting
assignments
(ii) Conflict among consulting assignments: a Consultant
(including its Experts and Sub-consultants) or any of its
Affiliates shall not be hired for any assignment that, by
its nature, may be in conflict with another assignment of
the Consultant for the same or for another Client.
c. Conflicting
relationships
(iii) Relationship with the Client’s staff: a Consultant
(including its Experts and Sub-consultants) that has a
close business or family relationship with a professional
staff of NSDC who are directly or indirectly involved in
any part of (i) the preparation of the Terms of Reference
for the assignment, (ii) the empanelment process for the
Contract, or (iii) the supervision of the Contract, may not
be awarded a Contract, unless the conflict stemming
from this relationship has been resolved in a manner
acceptable to NSDC throughout the empanelment
process and the execution of the Contract.
4. Unfair
Competitive
Advantage
4.1 Fairness and transparency in the empanelment process
require that the Consultants or their Affiliates competing for a
specific assignment do not derive a competitive advantage from
having provided consulting services related to the assignment in
question.
5. Corrupt and
Fraudulent
Practices
5.1 The Client requires compliance with its policy regarding corrupt
and fraudulent practices as set forth in Section 6.
5.2 In further pursuance of this policy, Consultants shall permit and
shall cause their agents, Experts, Sub-consultants, sub-contractors,
services providers, or suppliers to permit NSDC to inspect all
accounts, records, and other documents relating to the submission
of the Proposal and contract performance (in case of an award),
and to have them audited by auditors appointed by NSDC.
6. Eligibility 6.1 The Client permits consultants registered and operating in
India to offer consulting services for NSDC-financed projects. Joint
Ventures, Sub-consultants, agents (declared or not), sub-
contractors, are not allowed for this assignment.
6.2 Furthermore, it is the Consultant’s responsibility to ensure that its Experts meet the eligibility requirements as established by
NSDC in this RFP and the Applicable Guidelines.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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6.3 Two or more Firms belonging to the same Group shall be
considered as one Firm. Two Firms shall be considered belonging
to the same Group if at least 50% of the right to take decision and
/ or right to share profit of one Firm vests directly or indirectly with
(whether immediate or ultimate):
other Firm; or
same person (natural or juridical); or
same group of persons (natural and / or juridical)
Further, in case of more than two Firms, the connection between
two Firms may also be determined based on their connection with
other Firms in the Group e.g. in case of three Firms – Firm A, Firm
B and Firm C; if it is established based on either of the criteria as
mentioned above in respect of the holding of at least 50% of the
right to take decision and / or right to share profit that:
Firm A and Firm B belong to the same Group; and
Firm B and Firm C belong to the same Group.
Based on above, Firm A and Firm C shall also be considered as
belonging to the same Group due to their respective connection
with Firm B, even though none of the criteria in respect of the
holding of at least 50% of the right to take decision and / or right
to share profit is fulfilled between Firm A and Firm C.
a. Sanctions 6.3.1 A firm or an individual sanctioned by NSDC in accordance
with the above Clause 5.1 shall be ineligible to be awarded a NSDC-
financed contract, or to benefit from a NSDC-financed contract,
financially or otherwise, during such period of time as NSDC shall
determine.
b. Prohibitions Not used
c. Restrictions for
Government-
owned Enterprises
6.3.3 Government-owned enterprises or institutions in the Client’s country shall be eligible only if they can establish that they (i) are
legally and financially autonomous, (ii) operate under commercial
law, and (iii) that they are not dependent agencies of the Client or
the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
To establish eligibility, the government-owned enterprise or
institution should provide all relevant documents (including
its charter) sufficient to demonstrate that it is a legal entity
separate from the government; it does not currently receive
any substantial subsidies or budget support; it is not
obligated to pass on its surplus to the government; it can
acquire rights and liabilities, borrow funds, and can be liable
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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for repayment of debts and be declared bankrupt; and it is
not competing for a contract to be awarded by the
government department or agency which, under the
applicable laws or regulations, is its reporting or supervisory
authority or has the ability to exercise influence or control
over it.
d. Restrictions for
public employees
6.3.4 Government officials and civil servants of India are not
eligible to be included as Experts in the Consultant’s Proposal unless such engagement does not conflict with any employment
or other laws, regulations, or policies of the India, and they
(i) are on leave of absence without pay, or have resigned or
retired;
(ii) are not being hired by the same agency they were
working for before going on leave of absence without pay,
resigning, or retiring
(iii) their hiring would not create a conflict of interest.
B. Preparation of Proposals
7. General
Considerations
7.1 In preparing the Proposal, the Consultant is expected to
examine the RFP in detail. Material deficiencies in providing the
information requested in the RFP may result in rejection of the
Proposal.
8. Cost of
Preparation of
Proposal
8.1 The Consultant shall bear all costs associated with the
preparation and submission of its Proposal, and the Client shall not
be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct
or outcome of the empanelment process. The Client is not bound
to accept any proposal, and reserves the right to annul the
empanelment process at any time prior to Contract award,
without thereby incurring any liability to the Consultant.
9. Language 9.1 The Proposal, as well as all correspondence and documents
relating to the Proposal exchanged between the Consultant and
the Client, shall be written in the language(s) specified in the Data
Sheet.
10. Documents
Comprising
the Proposal
10.1 The Proposal shall comprise the documents and forms
listed in the Data Sheet.
10.2 If specified in the Data Sheet, the Consultant shall include
a statement of an undertaking of the Consultant to observe, in
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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competing for and executing a contract, the Client country’s laws against fraud and corruption (including bribery).
11. Only One
Proposal
11.1 The Consultant (including the individual members of any
Joint Venture) shall submit only one Proposal, either in its own
name or as part of a Joint Venture in another Proposal. If a
Consultant, including any Joint Venture member, submits or
participates in more than one proposal, all such proposals shall be
disqualified and rejected. This does not, however, preclude a Sub-
consultant, or the Consultant’s staff from participating as Key
Experts and Non-Key Experts in more than one Proposal when
circumstances justify and if stated in the Data Sheet.
12. Proposal
Validity
12.1 The Data Sheet indicates the period during which the
Consultant’s Proposal must remain valid after the Proposal
submission deadline.
12.2 During this period, the Consultant shall maintain its
original Proposal without any change, including the availability of
the Key Experts, the proposed rates and the total price.
12.3 If it is established that any Key Expert nominated in the
Consultant’s Proposal was not available at the time of Proposal submission or was included in the Proposal without his/her
confirmation, such Proposal shall be disqualified and rejected for
further evaluation, and may be subject to sanctions in accordance
with Clause 5 of this ITC.
a. Extension of
Validity Period
12.4 The Client will make its best effort to complete the
negotiations within the proposal’s validity period. However,
should the need arise, the validity will automatically extend by 180
days more.
12.5 It shall be done without any change in the original Proposal
and with the confirmation of the availability of the Key Experts.
12.6 Not applicable
b. Substitution of
Key Experts at
Validity Extension
12.7 If any of the Key Experts become unavailable for the
extended validity period, the Consultant shall provide a written
adequate justification and evidence satisfactory to the Client
together with the substitution request. In such case, a
replacement Key Expert shall have equal or better qualifications
and experience than those of the originally proposed Key Expert.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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The technical evaluation score, however, will remain to be based
on the evaluation of the CV of the original Key Expert.
12.8 If the Consultant fails to provide a replacement Key Expert
with equal or better qualifications, or if the provided reasons for
the replacement or justification are unacceptable to the Client,
such Proposal will be rejected.
c. Sub-Contracting 12.9 The Consultant shall not subcontract any part or the whole
of the Services.
12.10 A consultant is required to submit a Proposal Securing
Declaration as per the format provided in section 5 of the RFP. A
Proposal Securing Declaration be executed:
(i) if a consultant withdraws its proposal during the period of
proposal validity specified by the consultant in its
proposal. or any extension thereto provided by the
consultant; or
(ii) if the successful consultant fails to sign the Contract.
12.11 The Proposal-Securing Declaration of a JV must be in the
name of the JV that submits the Proposal. If the JV has not been
legally constituted into a legally enforceable JV at the time of
Bidding, the Proposal-Securing Declaration shall be in the names
of all future members as named in the Tech – 1 Form.
12.12 The Client may, if provided for in the Data Sheet, declare
the consultant ineligible to be awarded a contract by the Client for
a period of time as stated in the Data Sheet.
13. Clarification
and
Amendment
of RFP
13.1 The Consultant may request a clarification of any part of
the RFP during the period indicated in the Data Sheet before the
Proposals’ submission deadline. Any request for clarification must be sent in writing, by email, to the Client’s address indicated in the Data Sheet. The Client will respond in writing, by email, and will
send written copies of the response (including an explanation of
the query but without identifying its source) to all shortlisted
Consultants. Should the Client deem it necessary to amend the RFP
as a result of a clarification, it shall do so following the procedure
described below:
13.1.1 At any time before the proposal submission
deadline, the Client may amend the RFP by issuing an
amendment in writing or by standard electronic means. The
amendment shall be sent to all shortlisted Consultants and
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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will be binding on them. The shortlisted Consultants shall
acknowledge receipt of all amendments in writing.
13.1.2 If the amendment is substantial, the Client may
extend the proposal submission deadline to give the
shortlisted Consultants reasonable time to take an
amendment into account in their Proposals.
13.2 The Consultant may submit a modified Proposal or a
modification to any part of it at any time prior to the proposal
submission deadline. No modifications to the Technical or
Financial Proposal shall be accepted after the deadline.
14. Preparation of
Proposals –
Specific
Considerations
Not used
15. Technical
Proposal
Format and
Content
15.1 The Technical Proposal shall not include any financial
information. A Technical Proposal containing material financial
information shall be declared non-responsive.
15.1.1 Consultant shall not propose alternative Key
Experts. Only one CV shall be submitted for each Key Expert
position. Failure to comply with this requirement will make
the Proposal non-responsive.
15.2 Depending on the nature of the assignment, the Consultant
is required to submit as indicated in the Data Sheet and using the
Standard Forms provided in Section 3 of the RFP.
16. Financial
Proposal
16.1 The Financial Proposal shall be prepared using the
Standard Forms provided in Section 4 of the RFP. It shall list all
costs associated with the assignment, including (a)Costing for
deliverables, indicated in the Data Sheet.
a. Price
Adjustment
16.2 Not Applicable
b. Taxes 16.3 The Consultant and its Sub-consultants and Experts are
responsible for meeting all tax liabilities arising out of the Contract
unless stated otherwise in the Data Sheet. Information on taxes is
provided in the Data Sheet.
c. Currency of
Proposal
16.4 The Consultant may express the price for its Services in the
currency or currencies as stated in the Data Sheet. If indicated in
the Data Sheet, the portion of the price representing local cost
shall be stated in the national currency.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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d. Currency of
Payment
16.5 Payment under the Contract shall be made in the currency
or currencies in which the payment is requested in the Proposal.
C. Submission, Opening and Evaluation
17. Submission,
Sealing, and
Marking of
Proposals
17.1 The Consultant shall submit a signed and complete
Proposal comprising the documents and forms in accordance
with Clause 10 (Documents Comprising Proposal). The
submission can be done by mail or by hand. If specified in the
Data Sheet, the Consultant has the option of submitting its
Proposals electronically.
17.2 An authorized representative of the Consultant shall
sign the original submission letters in the required format for
both the Technical Proposal and, if applicable, the Financial
Proposal and shall initial all pages of both. The authorization
shall be in the form of a written power of attorney attached to
the Technical Proposal.
17.2.1 A Proposal submitted by a Joint Venture shall be
signed by all members so as to be legally binding on all
members, or by an authorized representative who has a
written power of attorney signed by each member’s authorized representative.
17.3 Any modifications, revisions, interlineations, erasures,
or overwriting shall be valid only if they are signed or initialed
by the person signing the Proposal.
17.4 The signed Proposal shall be marked “ORIGINAL”, and its copies marked “COPY” as appropriate. The number of copies is
indicated in the Data Sheet. All copies shall be made from the
signed original. If there are discrepancies between the original
and the copies, the original shall prevail.
17.5 The original and all the copies of the Technical Proposal
shall be placed inside of a sealed envelope clearly marked
“TECHNICAL PROPOSAL”, “[Name of the Assignment]“, reference number, name and address of the Consultant, and with a
warning “DO NOT OPEN UNTIL [INSERT THE DATE AND THE TIME OF THE
TECHNICAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION DEADLINE].”
17.6 Similarly, the original Financial Proposal (if required for
the applicable empanelment method) shall be placed inside of
a sealed envelope clearly marked “FINANCIAL PROPOSAL” followed
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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by the name of the assignment, reference number, name and
address of the Consultant, and with a warning “DO NOT OPEN
WITH THE TECHNICAL PROPOSAL.”
17.7 The sealed envelopes containing the Technical and
Financial Proposals shall be placed into one outer envelope and
sealed. This outer envelope shall bear the submission address,
RFP reference number, the name of the assignment,
Consultant’s name and the address, and shall be clearly marked
“DO NOT OPEN BEFORE [insert the time and date of the submission
deadline indicated in the Data Sheet]”.
17.8 If the envelopes and packages with the Proposal are not
sealed and marked as required, the Client will assume no
responsibility for the misplacement, loss, or premature opening
of the Proposal.
17.9 The Proposal or its modifications must be sent to the
address indicated in the Data Sheet and received by the Client
no later than the deadline indicated in the Data Sheet, or any
extension to this deadline. Any Proposal or its modification
received by the Client after the deadline shall be declared late
and rejected, and promptly returned unopened.
18. Confidentiality 18.1 From the time the Proposals are opened to the time the
Contract is awarded, the Consultant should not contact the
Client on any matter related to its Technical and/or Financial
Proposal. Information relating to the evaluation of Proposals
and award recommendations shall not be disclosed to the
Consultants who submitted the Proposals or to any other party
not officially concerned with the process, until the publication
of the Contract award information.
18.2 Any attempt by shortlisted Consultants or anyone on
behalf of the Consultant to influence improperly the Client in
the evaluation of the Proposals or Contract award decisions
may result in the rejection of its Proposal.
18.3 Notwithstanding the above provisions, from the time of
the Proposals’ opening to the time of Contract award
publication, if a Consultant wishes to contact the Client on any
matter related to the empanelment process, it should do so
only in writing.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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19. Opening of
Technical
Proposals
19.1 The Client’s evaluation committee shall conduct the
opening of the Technical Proposals in the presence of the
shortlisted Consultants’ authorized representatives who choose to attend (in person, or online if this option is offered in the
Data Sheet). The opening date, time and the address are stated
in the Data Sheet. The envelopes with the Financial Proposal
shall remain sealed and shall be securely stored with a
reputable public auditor or independent authority until they are
opened in accordance with Clause 23 of the ITC.
19.2 At the opening of the Technical Proposals the following
shall be read out: (i) the name and the country of the Consultant
or, in case of a Joint Venture, the name of the Joint Venture, the
name of the lead member and the names and the countries of
all members; (ii) the presence or absence of a duly sealed
envelope with the Financial Proposal; (iii) any modifications to
the Proposal submitted prior to proposal submission deadline;
and (iv) any other information deemed appropriate or as
indicated in the Data Sheet.
20. Proposals
Evaluation
20.1 Subject to provision of Clause 15.1 of the ITC, the
evaluators of the Technical Proposals shall have no access to the
Financial Proposals until the technical evaluation is concluded
and necessary approvals have been obtained to open the
financial proposals.
20.2 The Consultant is not permitted to alter or modify its
Proposal in any way after the proposal submission deadline
except as permitted under Clause 12.7 of this ITC. While
evaluating the Proposals, the Client will conduct the evaluation
solely on the basis of the submitted Technical and Financial
Proposals.
21. Evaluation of
Technical
Proposals
21.1 The Client’s evaluation committee shall evaluate the Technical Proposals on the basis of their responsiveness to the
Terms of Reference and the RFP, applying the eligibility and
evaluation criteria, sub-criteria, and point system specified in
the Data Sheet. Each eligible and responsive Proposal will be
given a technical score. A Proposal shall be rejected at this stage
if it does not respond to important aspects of the RFP or if it fails
to achieve the minimum technical score indicated in the Data
Sheet.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
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22. Financial
Proposals for
QBS
22.1 Following the ranking of the Technical Proposals, when
the selection is based on quality only (QBS), the top-ranked
Consultant is invited to negotiate the Contract.
22.2 If Financial Proposals were invited together with the
Technical Proposals, only the Financial Proposal of the
technically top-ranked Consultant is opened by the Client’s evaluation committee. All other Financial Proposals are
returned unopened after the Contract negotiations are
successfully concluded and the Contract is signed.
23. Public Opening of
Financial
Proposals (for
QCBS, FBS, and
LCS methods)
23.1 After the technical evaluation is completed and
necessary approvals have been obtained to open the financial
proposals, the Client shall notify those Consultants whose
Proposals were considered non-responsive to the RFP and TOR
or did not meet the minimum qualifying technical score (and
shall provide information relating to the Consultant’s overall
technical score, as well as scores obtained for each criterion and
sub-criterion) that their Financial Proposals will be returned
unopened after completing the empanelment process and
Contract signing. The Client shall simultaneously notify in
writing those Consultants that have achieved the minimum
overall technical score and inform them of the date, time and
location for the opening of the Financial Proposals. The opening
date should allow the Consultants sufficient time to make
arrangements for attending the opening. The Consultant’s
attendance at the opening of the Financial Proposals (in person,
or online if such option is indicated in the Data Sheet) is optional
and is at the Consultant’s choice.
23.2 The Financial Proposals shall be opened by the Client’s evaluation committee in the presence of the representatives of
those Consultants whose proposals have passed the minimum
technical score. At the opening, the names of the Consultants,
and the overall technical scores, including the break-down by
criterion, shall be read aloud. The Financial Proposals will then
be inspected to confirm that they have remained sealed and
unopened. These Financial Proposals shall be then opened, and
the total prices read aloud and recorded. Copies of the record
shall be sent to all Consultants who submitted Proposals.
24. Correction of
Errors
24.1 Activities and items described in the Technical Proposal
but not priced in the Financial Proposal, shall be assumed to be
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
16 | P a g e
included in the prices of other activities or items, and no
corrections are made to the Financial Proposal.
25. Taxes 25.1 The Client’s evaluation of the Consultant’s Financial Proposal shall exclude taxes and duties in the Client’s country in accordance with the instructions in the Data Sheet.
26. Conversion to
Single Currency
26.1 For the evaluation purposes, prices shall be converted to
a single currency using the selling rates of exchange, source and
date indicated in the Data Sheet.
27. Combined Quality
and Cost Evaluation
a. Quality- and
Cost-Based Selection
(QCBS)
27.1 In the case of QCBS, the total score is calculated by
weighting the technical and financial scores and adding them as
per the formula and instructions in the Data Sheet. The
Consultant achieving the highest combined technical and
financial score will be invited for negotiations.
b. Fixed-Budget
Selection (FBS)
27.2 In the case of FBS, those Proposals that exceed the
budget indicated in Clause 14.1.4 of the Data Sheet shall be
rejected.
27.3 The Client will select the Consultant that submitted the
highest-ranked Technical Proposal that does not exceed the
budget indicated in the RFP, and invite such Consultant to
negotiate the Contract.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
17 | P a g e
c. Least-Cost
Selection
27.4 In the case of Least-Cost Selection (LCS), the Client will
arrive at lowest evaluated total price and will empanel those
consultants that match the lowest price. Contract will be signed
with empaneled consultants.
D. Negotiations and Award
28. Negotiations 28.1 The negotiations will be held at the date and address
indicated in the Data Sheet with the Consultant’s representative(s) who must have written power of attorney to
negotiate and sign a Contract on behalf of the Consultant.
28.2 The Client shall prepare minutes of negotiations that are
signed by the Client and the Consultant’s authorized representative.
a. Availability of Key
Experts
28.3 The invited Consultant shall confirm the availability of all
Key Experts included in the Proposal as a pre-requisite to the
negotiations, or, if applicable, a replacement in accordance with
Clause 12 of the ITC. Failure to confirm the Key Experts’ availability may result in the rejection of the Consultant’s Proposal and the Client proceeding to negotiate the Contract
with the next-ranked Consultant.
28.4 Notwithstanding the above, the substitution of Key
Experts at the negotiations may be considered if due solely to
circumstances outside the reasonable control of and not
foreseeable by the Consultant, including but not limited to
death or medical incapacity. In such case, the Consultant shall
offer a substitute Key Expert within the period of time specified
in the letter of invitation to negotiate the Contract, who shall
have equivalent or better qualifications and experience than
the original candidate.
b. Technical
negotiations
28.5 The negotiations include discussions of the Terms of
Reference (TORs), the proposed methodology, the Client’s inputs, the special conditions of the Contract, and finalizing the
“Description of Services” part of the Contract. These discussions shall not substantially alter the original scope of services under
the TOR or the terms of the contract, lest the quality of the final
product, its price, or the relevance of the initial evaluation be
affected.
c. Financial
negotiations
28.6 Not Applicable.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
18 | P a g e
28.7 Not Applicable.
28.8 In the case rates are much higher than the typically
charged rates by consultants in similar contracts. In such case,
the Client may ask for clarifications and, if the fees are very high,
ask to change the rates after due approvals from the concerned
authorities.
29. Conclusion of
Negotiations
29.1 The negotiations are concluded with a review of the
finalized draft Contract, which then shall be initialed by the
Client and the Consultant’s authorized representative.
29.2 If the negotiations fail, the Client shall inform the
Consultant in writing of all pending issues and disagreements
and provide a final opportunity to the Consultant to respond. If
disagreement persists, the Client shall terminate the
negotiations informing the Consultant of the reasons for doing
so. After having obtained due approvals, the Client will invite
the next-ranked Consultant to negotiate a Contract. Once the
Client commences negotiations with the next-ranked
Consultant, the Client shall not reopen the earlier negotiations.
30. Award of Contract 30.1 After completing the negotiations, the Client shall
obtain approvals from the procurement committee to the
negotiated draft Contract, if applicable; sign the Contract;
publish the award information as per the instructions in the
Data Sheet; and promptly notify the other shortlisted
Consultants.
30.2 The Consultant is expected to commence the
assignment on the date and at the location specified in the Data
Sheet.
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
19 | P a g e
Instructions to Consultants
E. Data Sheet
A. General
ITC Clause
Reference
1 (c) Law of India
2.1 Name of the Department: Centre Accreditation
Method of empanelment: LCS
Applicable Guidelines: NSDC Procurement Guidelines
NSDC may use Reverse Auction / eAuction process for commercial evaluation
for this RFP, if 3 or more consultants qualify in Eligibility and Technical
Evaluation Criteria. Such eligible and technically qualified consultants will get
one-time half an hour online training by NSDC / NSDC nominated agency on
the Revers Auction. Such eligible and technically qualified consultants will also
need to submit their financial proposal as pre-bid in Reverse Auction system
which shall be verified by NSDC with the financial proposal of bidder
submitted along with Technical Proposal in this RFP. Reverse Auction time slot
will be informed to the concerned bidders.
In case of less than 3 eligible and technically qualified consultant(s), Reverse
Auction / eAuction shall not be used, and financial proposal(s) of the eligible
and technically qualified consultant(s) submitted along with Technical
Proposal shall be opened.
Please note that in both Reverse Auction and without Reverse Auction
process LCS method shall be used.
2.2 Financial Proposal to be submitted together with Technical Proposal:
Yes
The name of the assignment is: Empanelment of Consultants for Desk
Assessment and Physical Inspection of ‘Training Providers and Training Centres’ for Accreditation & Affiliation and Continuous
Monitoring.
2.3 A pre-proposal conference will be held: Yes
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
20 | P a g e
Date of pre-proposal conference: 11th June 2019
Time: 11:30 Hrs (IST)
Address: National Skill Development Corporation
301, 3rd Floor, West Wing, Worldmark – 1 Aerocity,
New Delhi – 110037
T: +011-47451600-10 | F: +91-11-46560417
Email:[email protected]
Website: www.nsdcindia.org
2.4 The Client will provide details about project.
6. SL. Criteria Proof required
1. The Consultant shall be incorporated in
India as a legal entity
Company
Incorporation
Certificate
2. The Consultant should have been in
operation for a period of at least 5 years as
on date of issuance of this RFP
CA Certificate
3. The Consultant should have a minimum
annual turnover of Rs. 10 Crore in each of
the last three consecutive years (FY 2015-16,
2016-17, 2017-18).
CA Certificate
4. The Consultant should not have been
blacklisted by any Central/ State
Government (Central/State Government and
Public Sector) or under a declaration of
ineligibility for corrupt or fraudulent
practices.
undertaking from
Authorized
Signatory
5. The Consultant should submit undertaking
for their presence and willingness to work in
States and UT in India.
undertaking from
Authorized
Signatory
8. The consultant must have adequate
experience in similar projects, related to the
PO/Contract/Com
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
21 | P a g e
validation, verification and monitoring in last
3 years
pletion Certificate
from Client
B. Preparation of Proposals
9.1 This RFP has been issued in the English Language. Proposals shall be
submitted in English language.
All correspondence exchange shall be in English language.
10.1 The Proposal shall comprise the following:
TECHNICAL PROPOSAL
(1) Power of Attorney to sign the Proposal
(2) TECH-1
(3) TECH-2
(4) TECH-3
(5) TECH-4
(6) TECH-5
AND
Financial Proposal:
(1) FIN-1
(2) FIN-2
(3) Statement of Undertaking (if required under Data Sheet 10.2 below)
10.2 Statement of Undertaking is required
Yes- included as paragraph (e) in Form TECH-1
11.1 Participation of Sub-consultants, Key Experts and Non-Key Experts in more
than one Proposal is permissible
Yes
12.1
Proposals must remain valid for 180 days after the proposal submission
deadline.
12.12 3 months
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
22 | P a g e
13.1 Clarifications may be requested no later than 7 days prior to the
submission deadline.
National Skill Development Corporation
301, 3rd Floor, West Wing, Worldmark – 1
Aerocity, New Delhi – 110037
T: +011-47451600-10 | F: +91-11-46560417
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.nsdcindia.org
15.2 The format of the Technical Proposal to be submitted is:
As per Technical Forms mentioned in Data Sheet 10.1
Submission of the Technical Proposal in a wrong format may lead to the
Proposal being deemed non-responsive to the RFP requirements.
16.1
(8) [insert relevant type of expenses, if/as applicable]
16.2 A price adjustment provision applies to rates:
No
16.3 GST will be paid as per applicable rates
TDS however will be deducted as applicable.
16.4 The Financial Proposal shall be stated in the following currencies:
INR
C. Submission, Opening and Evaluation
17.1 The Consultants shall submit their Proposals through eprocurement portal
of NSDC as below
DEFINITIONS:
a. C1 India Private Limited: Service provider to provide the e-Tendering
Software and facilitate the process of e-tendering on Application Service
Provider (ASP) model.
b. NSDC e-Procurement Portal: An e-tendering portal of National Skill
Development Corporation (“NSDC”) introduced for the process of e-
tendering which can be accessed on https://nsdc.eproc.in.
Pre-requisites:
(i) It is mandatory for all the bidders to have Class-III Digital
Signature Certificate (With Both DSC Components, i.e.
Signing & Encryption) from any of the licensed Certifying
Agency under CCA, Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology, Government of India to participate in e-tendering
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
23 | P a g e
portal of NSDC. Bidders can see the list of licensed CA’s from the link www.cca.gov.in
C1 India Pvt. Ltd. also facilitate Class III Digital Signature
Certificate (With Both DSC Components, i.e. Signing &
Encryption) to the bidders. Bidder may contact C1 India Pvt.
Ltd. at mobile no. +91-7291981138 for DSC related queries or
can email at [email protected].
(ii) To participate in the online bidding, it is mandatory for the
Applicants to get themselves registered with the NSDC e-
Tendering Portal (https://nsdc.eproc.in)
(iii) System Requirement/ Registration Manuals/ Bid Submission
Manuals are available at the NSDC eTendering Portal
(https://nsdc.eproc.in)
(iv) For helpdesk please contact Help Desk Nos. +91-124-
4302033 / 36 / 37
(v) Participant are requested to email their issues to helpdesk at
[email protected] This will help serving the
participant better
(vi) The amendments/ clarifications to the tender, if any, will be
posted on the NSDC eTendering Portal
(https://nsdc.eproc.in)
(vii) The Bidder may modify or withdraw their bid after submission
prior to the Bid Due Date. No Bid shall be modified or
withdrawn by the Bidder after the Bid Due Date and Time.
(viii) It is highly recommended that the bidders should not to wait
till the last date of bid submission to avoid complications like
internet connectivity issue, network problems, system crash
down, power failure, browser compatibility issue, system
compatibility issue, improper digital signature certificate
problem etc. In view of this context, neither M/s National Skill
Development Corporation nor M/s. C1 India Pvt. Ltd will be
responsible for such eventualities.
17.4
The Consultant must submit:
(a) Technical Proposal, (b) Financial Proposal,
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
24 | P a g e
17.7 and
17.9
The Proposals must be submitted no later than:
Date: 25th June 2019
Time: 15:00 hrs IST (Indian Standard Time)
19.1 An online option of the opening of the Technical Proposals is offered: Yes
The opening shall take place at:
“same as the Proposal submission address”
Bidders who choose to attend proposal opening may visit
National Skill Development Corporation
301, 3rd Floor, West Wing, Worldmark
– 1 Aerocity, New Delhi – 110037
T: +011-47451600-10 | F: +91-11-46560417
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.nsdcindia.org
Date: same as the submission deadline indicated in 17.7.
Time: 16:30 hrs IST
19.2 In addition, the following information will be read aloud at the opening of
the Technical Proposals Name of the consultant firm.
21.1
(for FTP)
Criteria, sub-criteria, and point system for the evaluation of the Full
Technical Proposals:
Max Points
(i) The consultant must have adequate experience in similar projects,
related to the validation and verification in last 3 years 14
Minimum projects – 5
5-8 projects: 10 marks
9 or more projects: 14 marks
The consultant must have adequate experience in monitoring
related projects, in last 3 years 10
Minimum projects – 3
3- 5: 8 marks
6 or more 10
The consultant should have Presence in all states and UT: 36
1 mark for each
Section 2. Instructions to Consultants
25 | P a g e
(ii) Adequacy and quality of the proposed methodology, and work plan
in responding to the Terms of Reference (TORs): 20
a) Technical Approach and Methodology including presentation
15 b) Work Plan and Time of Completion 5
(iii)Team Composition: 20
Total weight: 100%
Total points for the three criteria: 100
The minimum technical score (St) required to pass is: 70
23.1 An online option of the opening of the Financial Proposals is offered:
Yes
“The online opening procedure shall be: same as proposal submission and
proposal opening procedure.
Financial Proposals of only those consultants will be opened, who have
attained the required qualifying marks in the technical evaluation.
The results of the technical evaluation will be informed to the consultants
and those who wish to attend opening of financial proposals may visit
NSDC Office at a date and time to be informed later.
26.1
The single currency for the conversion of all prices expressed in various
currencies into a single one is: INR
D. Negotiations and Award
28.1 Expected date and address for contract negotiations:
Date: 31st July 2019
Address:
National Skill Development Corporation
301, 3rd Floor, West Wing,
Worldmark – 1 Aerocity,
New Delhi – 110037
T: +011-47451600-10 | F: +91-11-46560417
27 | P a g e
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
28 | P a g e
FORM TECH-1
TECHNICAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION FORM
{Location, Date}
To: [Name and address of Client]
Dear Sirs:
We, the undersigned, offer to provide the consulting services for [Insert title of
assignment] in accordance with your Request for Proposals dated [Insert Date] and our
Proposal. [Select appropriate wording depending on the empanelment method stated in the
RFP: “We are hereby submitting our Proposal, which includes this Technical Proposal and a
Financial Proposal sealed in a separate envelope” or, if only a Technical Proposal is invited “We
hereby are submitting our Proposal, which includes this Technical Proposal only in a sealed
envelope.”].
{If the Consultant is a joint venture, insert the following: We are submitting our
Proposal a joint venture with: {Insert a list with full name and the legal address of each
member, and indicate the lead member}. We have attached a copy {insert: “of our letter of
intent to form a joint venture” or, if a JV is already formed, “of the JV agreement”} signed by
every participating member, which details the likely legal structure of and the confirmation of
joint and severable liability of the members of the said joint venture.
{OR
If the Consultant’s Proposal includes Sub-consultants, insert the following: We are submitting
our Proposal with the following firms as Sub-consultants: {Insert a list with full name and
address of each Sub-consultant.}
We hereby declare that:
(a) All the information and statements made in this Proposal are true and we
accept that any misinterpretation or misrepresentation contained in this
Proposal may lead to our disqualification by the Client and/or may be
sanctioned by the client.
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
29 | P a g e
(b) Our Proposal shall be valid and remain binding upon us for the period of time
specified in the Data Sheet, Clause 12.1.
(c) We have no conflict of interest in accordance with ITC 3.
(d) We meet the eligibility requirements as stated in ITC 6, and we confirm our
understanding of our obligation to abide by the NSDC’s policy in regard to
corrupt and fraudulent practices as per ITC 5.
(e) We, along with any of our sub-consultants, subcontractors, suppliers, or service
providers for any part of the contract, are not subject to, and not controlled by
any entity or individual that is subject to, a temporary suspension or a
debarment imposed by a central government/ministry and or any state/s of
India
(f) In competing for (and, if the award is made to us, in executing) the Contract, we
undertake to observe the laws against fraud and corruption, including bribery,
in force as per Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
(g) Except as stated in the Data Sheet, Clause 12.1, we undertake to negotiate a
Contract on the basis of the proposed Key Experts. We accept that the
substitution of Key Experts for reasons other than those stated in ITC Clause 12
and ITC Clause 28.4 may lead to the termination of Contract negotiations.
(h) Our Proposal is binding upon us and subject to any modifications resulting from
the Contract negotiations.
We undertake, if our Proposal is accepted and the Contract is signed, to initiate the
Services related to the assignment no later than the date indicated in Clause 30.2 of the Data
Sheet.
We understand that the Client is not bound to accept any Proposal that the Client
receives.
We remain,
Yours sincerely,
Authorized Signature {In full and initials}:
Name and Title of Signatory:
Name of Consultant (company’s name or JV’s name): In the capacity of:
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
30 | P a g e
Address:
Contact information (phone and e-mail):
{For a joint venture, either all members shall sign or only the lead member, in which
case the power of attorney to sign on behalf of all members shall be attached}
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
31 | P a g e
FORM TECH-2
CONSULTANT’S ORGANIZATION AND EXPERIENCE
Form TECH-2: a brief description of the Consultant’s organization and an outline of the recent
experience of the Consultant that is most relevant to the assignment.
A - Consultant’s Organization
1. Provide here a brief description of the background and organization of your company.
2. Include organizational chart, a list of Board of Directors, and beneficial ownership
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
32 | P a g e
B - Consultant’s Experience
1. List only previous similar assignments successfully completed in the last 10 years.
2. List only those assignments for which the Consultant was legally contracted by the Client as
a company. Assignments completed by the Consultant’s individual experts working privately
or through other consulting firms cannot be claimed as the relevant experience of the
Consultant, or that of the Consultant’s partners or sub-consultants, but can be claimed by the
Experts themselves in their CVs. The Consultant should be prepared to substantiate the
claimed experience by presenting copies of relevant documents and references if so
requested by the Client.
Duration
Assignment name/&
brief description of
main
deliverables/outputs
Name of
Client
Approx.
Contract
value (in
INR
equivalent)/
Amount
paid to your
firm
Role on the
Assignment
Type of
organization:
Public/Pvt/
Govt/NGO/
PPP
{e.g.,
Jan.2010–
Apr.2013}
{e.g., “training of trainer in….etc}
{e.g., Ministry of
......, country}
{e.g., 5
million…. } {e.g., Lead
partner in a
JV A&B&C}
{e.g.,
Jan-
May
2015}
{e.g., design of
academic
framework….etc}
{e.g.,
department
of.........,
country}
{e.g., .5 million}
{e.g., sole
Consultant}
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
33 | P a g e
FORM TECH-3
DESCRIPTION OF APPROACH, METHODOLOGY, AND WORK PLAN IN RESPONDING TO THE TERMS OF
REFERENCE
a) Technical Approach and Methodology. {Please explain your understanding of the
objectives of the assignment as outlined in the Terms of Reference (TORs), the
technical approach, and the methodology you would adopt for implementing each of
the tasks in TORs, to deliver the expected output(s), and the degree of detail of such
output. Please do not repeat/copy the TORs in here.}
Section 3. Technical Proposal – Standard Forms
34 | P a g e
FORM TECH-4
NOT USED
35 | P a g e
FORM TECH-5
CURRICULUM VITAE (CV)
Position Title and No. {e.g., K-1, PROJECT LEADER}
Name of Expert: {Insert full name}
Date of Birth: {day/month/year}
Country of Citizenship/Residence
Education: {List college/university or other specialized education, giving names of
educational institutions, dates attended, degree(s)/diploma(s) obtained}
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Employment record relevant to the assignment: {Starting with present position, list in
reverse order. Please provide dates, name of employing organization, titles of positions held,
types of activities performed and location of the assignment, and contact information of
previous clients and employing organization(s) who can be contacted for references. Past
employment that is not relevant to the assignment does not need to be included.}
Period Employing organization and
your title/position. Contact
info for references
Country Summary of
activities performed
relevant to the
Assignment
[e.g., May
2005-
present]
[e.g., Ministry of ……, advisor/consultant to…
For references: Tel…………/e-
mail……; Mr. Hbbbbb, deputy minister]
Membership in Professional Associations and Publications:
______________________________________________________________________
Language Skills (indicate only languages in which you can work): ______________
______________________________________________________________________
36 | P a g e
Adequacy for the Assignment:
Detailed Tasks Assigned on Consultant’s Team of Experts:
Reference to Prior Work/Assignments that
Best Illustrates Capability to Handle the
Assigned Tasks
{List all deliverables/tasks in which the
Expert will be involved)
Expert’s contact information: (e-mail …………………., phone……………)
Certification:
I, the undersigned, certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, this CV correctly
describes myself, my qualifications, and my experience, and I am available, as and when
necessary, to undertake the assignment in case of an award. I understand that any
misstatement or misrepresentation described herein may lead to my disqualification or
dismissal by the Client.
{day/month/year}
Name of Expert Signature
Date
{day/month/year}
Name of authorized Signature
Date
Representative of the Consultant
(the same who signs the Proposal)
Section 4 – Financial Proposal – Standard Forms
37 | P a g e
Section 4. Financial Proposal - Standard Forms
{Notes to Consultant shown in brackets { } provide guidance to the Consultant to prepare the
Financial Proposals; they should not appear on the Financial Proposals to be submitted.}
Financial Proposal Standard Forms shall be used for the preparation of the Financial Proposal
according to the instructions provided in Section 2.
FIN-1 Financial Proposal Submission Form
FIN-2 Summary of Costs
38 | P a g e
FORM FIN-1
FINANCIAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION FORM
{Location, Date}
To: [Name and address of Client]
Dear Sirs:
We, the undersigned, offer to provide the consulting services for [Insert title of
assignment] in accordance with your Request for Proposal dated [Insert Date] and our
Technical Proposal.
Our attached Financial Proposal is for the amount of {Indicate the corresponding to
the amount(s) currency(ies)} {Insert amount(s) in words and figures}, [Insert “including” or “excluding”] of all indirect local taxes in accordance with Clause 25.1 in the Data Sheet. The
estimated amount of local indirect taxes is {Insert currency} {Insert amount in words and
figures} which shall be confirmed or adjusted, if needed, during negotiations. {Please note that
all amounts shall be the same as in Form FIN-2}.
Our Financial Proposal shall be binding upon us subject to the modifications resulting
from Contract negotiations, up to expiration of the validity period of the Proposal, i.e. before
the date indicated in Clause 12.1 of the Data Sheet.
Commissions and gratuities paid or to be paid by us to an agent or any third party
relating to preparation or submission of this Proposal and Contract execution, paid if we are
awarded the Contract, are listed below:
Name and Address Amount and Purpose of Commission
of Agents Currency or Gratuity
{If no payments are made or promised, add the following statement: “No commissions or gratuities have been or are to be paid by us to agents or any third party relating to this
Proposal and Contract execution.”}
We understand you are not bound to accept any Proposal you receive.
We remain,
Section 4 – Financial Proposal – Standard Forms
39 | P a g e
Yours sincerely,
Authorized Signature {In full and initials}:
Name and Title of Signatory:
In the capacity of:
Address:
E-mail: _________________________
{For a joint venture, either all members shall sign or only the lead member/consultant,
in which case the power of attorney to sign on behalf of all members shall be attached}
41 | P a g e
FORM FIN-2 SUMMARY OF COSTS
Cost of the Financial Proposal Cost in
INR
1 Desk Verification of TP
2 Desk Verification of TC
3 Field Verification for normal states and UT
4 Field Verification for those areas categorized as Special Areas1 as per Common
Norms for Skill Development Schemes of the Government of India
5 Continuous Monitoring – SAR Report (push notifications)
6 Continuous Monitoring - Surprise visits for normal states and UT
7 Continuous Monitoring - Surprise visits of Special Areas1 as per Common
Norms for Skill Development Schemes of the Government of India
Taxes extra
1 Special areas include North Eastern States, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand,
Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep and districts affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) as
identified by the M/O Home Affairs.
42 | P a g e
Section 5
Form of Proposal-Securing Declaration
[The Consultant shall fill in this Form in accordance with the instructions indicated.]
Date: [date (as day, month and year)]
To: [complete name of Client]
We, the undersigned, declare that:
We understand that, according to your conditions, proposals must be supported by a
Proposal- Securing Declaration.
We accept that we will automatically be suspended from being eligible for participating in
any contract with the client for the period of time of three months starting on [date of
Opening of Proposals], if we are in breach of our obligation(s) under the RFP conditions,
because we:
(a) have withdrawn our Proposal during the period of Proposal validity specified in
the Form Tech - 1; or
(b) having been notified of the acceptance of our proposal by the client during the
period of proposal validity, (i) fail or refuse to sign the Contract; in accordance
with the ITC.
We understand this Proposal Securing Declaration shall expire if we are not the
successful consultant, upon the earlier of (i) our receipt of your notification to us of
the name of the successful Bidder; or (ii) twenty-eight days after the expiration of our
proposal.
Name of the Consultant*
Name of the person duly authorized to sign the Proposal on behalf of the Consultant**
43 | P a g e
Title of the person signing the Proposal
Signature of the person named above
Date signed day of
,
*: In the case of the proposal submitted by joint venture specify the name of the Joint Venture
as Consultant
**: Person signing the Proposal shall have the power of attorney given by the consultant’s
firm attached to the Proposal
[Note: In case of a Joint Venture, the Proposal-Securing Declaration must be in the name
of all members to the Joint Venture that submits the Proposal.]
44 | P a g e
Section 6. NSDC Policy – Corrupt and Fraudulent Practices
(this Section 6 shall not be modified)
1.1 It should be kept in mind that all actions towards award of Contract and its
implementation on the ground have to be fair, consistent, transparent and based
on highest standard of ethics. Similarly,
bidders/suppliers/contractors/consultants
associated in the procurement of Goods, Works & Consultancy, are expected to
observe the highest standard of ethics during procurement and execution of
contracts. In pursuance to above:
a. Proposal for award may be rejected, if it determines that the bidder,
recommended for award, and/or its employees, sub-contractors, sub-
consultant, sub- vendors, agents have engaged in corrupt or fraudulent
practices in competing for the Contract in question;
b. Portion of the funds allocated to a contract may be cancelled, in full or in part, if
it is determined that corrupt or fraudulent practices were engaged by
contractor/consultant and/or its employees, subcontractors/sub-consultants,
sub-vendors, agents for getting the Contract or during the execution of a
Contract;
c. A firm may be declared as ineligible, either indefinitely or for a stated period of
time, to be awarded a Contract, if it, at any time, determines that the firm has
been engaged in corrupt or fraudulent practices in competing for or in executing
the Contract. For the purpose of above provision, the terms, "Corrupt Practice"
and
"Fraudulent Practice", mean following:
"corrupt practice" means offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting anything of value to
influence the action of NSDC’s official(s) in the procurement process or in the contract execution; and
"fraudulent practice" means a misrepresentation of facts in order to influence a
procurement process or the execution of a contract and includes collusive practices among
bidders (prior to or after bid submission) designed to establish bid/proposal prices at
artificial, non- competitive levels.
45
Section 7. Terms of Reference
Terms of Reference (ToR) - Hiring Agencies for Desk Assessment and Physical Inspection of
‘Training Providers and Training Centres’ for Accreditation & Affiliation.
1. Introduction
National Skill Development Corporation (‘NSDC’), a Section 25 Company under Companies Act, 1956 (corresponding to Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013), was initially set up under the Prime
Minister’s National Council on Skill Development with the primary mandate of enhancing and
supporting Private Sector initiatives for Skill Development in India. At present, NSDC functions under
the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (‘MSDE’). In order to fulfil its objectives, NSDC solicits and funds proposals that have sustainable business models catering to
sectors with unmet needs serving high growth sectors, unorganized sectors or training to develop
the skill ecosystem. NSDC assistance (Equity/ Grant/ Loan) is sanctioned to any form of legal entity
including but not limited to Company/ Society / Trust as per the process and applicable laws and
guidelines.
Guidelines for Accreditation, Affiliation, and Continuous Monitoring of Training Centres were
launched in year 2016 .
2. Objective
NSDC is desirous of assuring the quality and continuously monitoring the Training Centres setup for
providing NSQF training courses through pre-determined standards and specifications. The process
includes internal (self-evaluation) and external physical assessment, to ensure quality benchmarks
in terms of infrastructure and delivery of trainings in the skilling ecosystem. The Validation (Desk
Assessment & Physical Inspection) will be used to accredit Training Centres before being affiliated.
Post accreditation and affiliation a continuous monitoring system would assess the quality and
effectiveness of Training Centre on an ongoing basis.
The agencies selected through this RFP will carry out the validation process explained above.
2.1 About SMART
SMART provides a single window IT application that focuses on the Accreditation, Affiliation and
Continuous Monitoring of the Training Centres (TC) in the Skill Ecosystem and intends to address
the following:
• To provide a unified platform for all the skilling activities being carried out within the
country by providing quality benchmarks in the concept, establishment and running of
the various skilling initiatives.
• To align various skill development programs to standardized norms and processes,
thereby reducing multiplicity of norms and parameters that result in avoidable
46 | P a g e
difficulties in implementation of the skilling initiatives
• To monitor compliance to standards and norms by all training centres in an objective
manner.
• To foster excellence in training centres through a rating/grading approach thereby
ensuring incentives for achieving higher quality standards.
• To enable trainees and other stakeholders to make informed choices with regard to
training centre selection
2.2 Accreditation and Affiliation through SMART covers various Central and State Government
Schemes, Private initiatives, CSR etc. thus making it a scheme agnostic platform.
1. Various features of SMART
• Single portal interface across multiple Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) and Schemes
• IT enabled paperless system for accreditation and affiliation of Training Centres
• Transparent and Time bound delivery of accreditation & affiliation services
• SSC guided standardized lab specifications
• SSC guided trainer qualification and experience
2. Services offered on SMART
• Extendable to all Skill Development Schemes
• Web based application for TC Accreditation/Affiliation
• Mobile App based TC CAAF submission, Inspection & Continuous Monitoring
• One Stop platform for SSC Affiliation across job roles
• Online repository for TC/TP details at pan India level
• Dashboards & MIS for various stakeholders such as SSCs, SSDMs and various other
schemes
• E-Payment of Accreditation& Affiliation fees
• Physical Inspection of each TC based on CAAF
2.3 With the above objectives in mind, the process of Training Centre Validation and Continuous
Monitoring has been initiated. The validation by Inspection Agency (IA) would be the basis for
Accreditation and Affiliation of the Centres.
Steps in Centre Accreditation and Affiliation through SMART
3.1 The Centre Accreditation and Affiliation comprise of following main activities:
• Training Provider (TP) Registration: Training Provider (TP) fills the Application form
and pays the registration fees. Inspection Agency (IA) conducts Desktop Assessment
(DA) and shares the status with TP. On being Deemed Ready (DR), the TP proceeds
with Training Centre creation. This registration will be valid for 3 years from the date
of getting DR status. For example, if a TP gets DR on 2nd October 2016 then this
registration will be valid till 1st October 2019
47
• Stage 1: Centre Accreditation Application Form (CAAF) registration and Training
Centre (TC) Accreditation: o Stage 1: Training Centre (TC) fills the CAAF and submits
the CAAF registration fees. IA conducts Desktop Assessment (DA) and shares the
status with TC, basis which a “Letter of Registration” is shared with the TC. Post Deemed Ready status if the TC is recommended/empaneled by any recommending
agency/scheme, the TC shall undergo physical inspection process as mentioned
below
• Stage 2: Post empanelment or recommendation the TC pays accreditation fees and
applies for physical inspection. If the TC is recommended for Accreditation or
Conditional Accreditation after physical inspection, the case is shared with SSC for a
final review and status update. In case a TC gets recommended for a job role other
than those mentioned in the letter of registration, then the TC needs to follow stage
1 and 2 with all requisite fees for the additional job role.
• Training Centre (TC) Accreditation: The respective SSC reviews the inspection report
of the Training Centre and accords the TC with Accreditation/ Conditional
Accreditation status and TC receives an accreditation certificate. If the SSC does not
agree with the IA recommendation, the case is forwarded to the Accreditation
Committee.
• Training Centre (TC) Affiliation: After getting accredited/conditionally accredited
status from SSC, the TC applies for Affiliation for accredited Job Roles and pays the
following fees: a) Continuous Monitoring Affiliation fees Affiliation is auto accorded
to the TC after payment of affiliation fees.
• Continuous Monitoring of Training Centres (TC): TC is continuously monitored on
SMART as per the process and metrics. The TC shall download the mobile application
from Google Play store. TC will receive quarterly push notification via the mobile
application to upload certain images of the TC. Failure to do so will lead to reduction
in Accreditation score of the TC. The TC will then have to re-apply for physical
inspection to increase the score.
• Renewal of Accreditation and Affiliation: Post 1 year from receiving the accreditation
status, the TC may re-apply for Accreditation and Affiliation. This process will be
available for the TC 3 months prior to expiry of accreditation status. The TP
registration will expire 3 years from receiving the DR status. Post 3 years, the TP may
apply for renewal of the registration on SMART.
• The Accreditation Standards are driven by a grading metrics and are related to the operations
and services offered by the TC to its trainees. These standards are a set of practices and
concepts, as laid down by the SSCs pertaining to each job role, that provide guidance to the
TCs on all relevant aspects of skilling.
• The Accreditation Standards applicable to a TC is a combination of Infrastructure, training,
health and safety related parameters categorized as Part-A and Part-B standards.
• The standards of the Part-A category are the mandatory indicators to be adhered to. It is
necessary that a TC complies with all the Accreditation Standards of Part-A category to
become an accredited TC.
• The standards of the Part-B category are the other indicators, on which the TC shall be
scored on the predefined points. It is mandatory that the TC achieves a minimum of 40%
score with respect to the Accreditation Standards Grading Metrics.
• The Accreditation Standards Grading Metrics is provided on SMART under Knowledge
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Bank tab (https://smart.nsdcindia.org/knowledge_bank.aspx#grading).
• Turn Around Time for DA and Inspection
Days Indicative Timelines
Indicative Timelines for TP Registration
T TP submits the Application form
T+4 Desktop Assessment of the TP Application
Indicative Timelines for TC Registration (Stage-1)
T1 TC submits CAAF
T1+4 Desktop Assessment of CAAF
Indicative Timelines for Centre Accreditation (Stage-2)
T2 TC applies for physical inspection & pays the fees
T2+3 Scheduling of Physical Inspection by Inspection Agency
T2+15 Physical Inspection of the TC by Inspection Agency
T3*+7 Conducting Physical Inspection after rejection of the initial
inspection date
T3-Rejection of Inspection Date by TC
3. Scope of Work:
The scope of work will include the following:
• The agency must propose the most suitable approach and methodology for Desktop
Assessment of Training Providers and respective Training Centres, and Physical verification of
the Deemed Ready Training Centres. There should be a clear articulation of the strengths and
weaknesses of the approach and of the justification for selecting it. In addition, the agency
should highlight potential challenges in project execution and suggest ways to overcome them.
Evaluation of TP application form:
• Inspection Agency has to evaluate the application for according the status of 'Deemed Ready' or
'Deemed Not Ready' based on the information provided by TP as compared to the proofs
submitted by TP and checklist shared by NSDC. Evaluation has to be thorough, as TP will be able
to create TCs under its umbrella only once it gets Deemed Ready. If the status is ‘Deemed Not Ready’, the Training Provider can re-submit the revised CAAF, and the same needs to be
reviewed by the Inspection Agency within 4 days of receiving the revised CAAF.
Evaluation of CAAF:
• Inspection Agency has to evaluate CAAF for according the status of 'Deemed Ready' or 'Deemed
Not Ready' based on the accreditation standards for each job role. Evaluation has to be
thorough, as it is the basis for on-site inspection. The data upload activity by the Centre will be
facilitated through a mobile application based technology, whereby the Training Centre would
be able to upload geo-tagged and time stamped pictures. The data uploaded in the form (textual,
scanned documents and pictures and videos, etc.) would act as supporting evidences to show
compliance to the Accreditation Standards. All this data shall be reviewed by the Inspection
Agency. Once the CAAF is submitted to the Inspection Agency, the time taken by Inspection
Agency to evaluate and submit the Deemed status (Ready/Not-Ready) for the Centre cannot be
more than 4 days. Proper justification has to be given for according Deemed Ready/ Deemed
49
Not Ready status.
• If the status is ‘Deemed Not Ready’, the Training Centre can re-submit the revised CAAF, and the
same needs to be reviewed by the Inspection Agency within 4 days of receiving the revised CAAF.
• If the status is ‘Deemed Ready’, the TC will seek recommendation and make the requisite fee payment. Post successful payment, Inspection Agency has to provide date for On-site visit and
communicate the same to the Training Centre. The notification for inspection would be sent to
the respective Centre and inspection date along with report must be available on TC dashboard
within 15 days.
On Site Centre Inspection (Physical Inspection): • • Inspection Agency has to visit the Centre as per the date proposed by them and conduct the
inspection. The inspection should be conducted as per the accreditation standards for the job
roles for which the Training Centre has applied for. Inspection Agency will check whether the
information provided in CAAF is correct and whether it matches with the actual Centre
infrastructure and other details. The inspector will submit the findings of the Centre Visit.
• The inspection is done via the mobile application technology (approved/ recommended by
NSDC), and the process shall include uploading of the geo-tagged and time stamped Centre
pictures. It is mandatory for the inspector deployed by Inspection Agency to carry an appropriate
equipment i.e. smart phone/ tablet with pre-installed Centre Accreditation Mobile Application
for taking time-stamped & geo-tagged photographs or, device for measuring carpet area of
usable are in the Training Centre etc.
Indicative parameters to be checked during Centre Validation Process:
• Verification of Centre’s Usable Area: Compliance check and qualitative evaluation of the Training Centre’s usable area i.e. classrooms, reception, lab, offices etc. to be carried out. In Training Centres where hostel facilities are also being offered to the students, usable area for
hostel shall also be verified.
• Type of building: The Centre inspector should check the type of building i.e. Industrial building,
standalone building, commercial building etc. The inspector shall qualitatively evaluate and
record the quality of construction etc.
• Trainers’ credentials: The qualification, SSC’s approved TOT certificationand experience of all the trainers in the training Centre shall be verified against required documents.
• Availability of Aadhaar Enabled Biometric Attendance System: The inspector shall verify whether
the Training Centre is equipped with Aadhaar enabled Biometric Attendance System.
• Verification of physical infrastructure, equipment: Compliance check and qualitative evaluation
of the Training Centre infrastructure i.e. classrooms, overhead projectors, power backup, air-
conditioning etc. shall be carried out. Presence of IT infrastructure and internet facility in the
training Centre shall also be verified. The mandatory requirements as per the Accreditation
Standards shall be verified.
• The Inspection Agency needs to interact with the trainers and other relevant staff of the
Centre. The Inspection Agency shall deploy only those personnel who have the adequate
qualifications, training, experience and knowledge of the requirements of the Centre
inspections to be carried out. Inspection Agency shall also ensure that the competent
personnel carrying out inspection have appropriate practical and theoretical knowledge and
experience of the various parameters to be inspected in an Training Centre i.e. equipment to
be thoroughly examined, square feet area of the Centre, capacity of the Centre etc.
• The Inspection Agency to also capture a video covering the entire Centre infrastructure and
related parameters as per the Accreditation Standards Grading Metrics and CAAF
• It is expected that the Inspection agency shall provide training to its personnel covering working
knowledge of the Training Centre, equipment and systems, training documentation, significance
50 | P a g e
of various parameters, typical problem areas etc. Inspection Agency has to check the
authenticity of the documents/ data during the processes carried out.
• The Inspection Agency shall prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Document for
conducting the accreditation activities.
• The Inspection Agency will be allocated the Training Providers and Centres as per their
empanelment for the different States and will be provided login credentials for SMART portal
for conducting the accreditation related activities. Minimum 2 IAs will be selected per State, in
case of UT it will decided on the volume expected.
• Once the Training Provider/ Centre has been allocated to the Inspection Agency for the review
of CAAF, the Inspection Agency cannot change the assigned task/re-assign the task without
proper justification and approval from the Client.
Continuous Monitoring Process:
• Continuous Monitoring is a regular process to track quality benchmarks of affiliated training
centres with respect to the Accreditation & Affiliation
• Continuous Monitoring helps in offering a dynamic grade to the TC on a periodic basis, based
on its performance and compliance
• It helps in ensuring that TCs adhere to lab, classroom, trainer and equipment standards laid
down for a job role by respective SSCs and do not compromise with the quality of trainings
delivered
• The current continuous monitoring process involves remote monitoring through push
notifications (100% TC coverage) and surprise visits (minimum 10% TC coverage which were
conditionally accredited & affiliated or accredited & affiliated in previous quarter)
• Inspection Agencies would be required to conduct Desktop assessment of response of push
notifications received from TCs
• In case a TC responds to <60% parameters during quarterly push, its score will get reduced by
20% on the 10th day of that quarter; the new score will become the baseline score
• However, in case a TC responds to more than or equal to 60% parameters during quarterly push,
its score remains unchanged
• If TC wants to increase the score, it can do the same only by re-inspection process
• After successful re-inspection, the updated score will become the new baseline score
Other Conditions to be considered:
• In addition, monitoring dashboards are provided to States and SSCs to keep track of TC
empaneled with them
• Inspection Agencies working in the same State cannot exchange the allocated Training Centres
among each other. No sharing of resources would be allowed among selected/empaneled
Inspection Agencies.
• Inspection Agency must follow a code of conduct while conducting the onsite visits and must
have a robust policy in place for cases related to breach of code of conduct
• The content of the report and its format should be finalized in consultation with NSDC.
• Periodic progress reports to be submitted to NSDC for inputs / suggestions. The agency may be
called upon by NSDC to discuss progress in the project at regular intervals.
4. Duration of the Project
The project is of 2 years.
51
5. Requirements
• Credentials of the Organization/Consultant: Company background including experience in
similar projects, years in business will be considered in the evaluation criteria. Key projects and
assignment relevant to such assignments shall be included in the proposal.
• Approach and Methodology including Work Plan, Organization and Staffing: The technical
proposal should also clearly identify the strategy being adopted to address the various
challenges faced during the assignment. Evaluation marks will depend on, among other things,
how well these questions have been addressed in the technical proposal.
Additional Requirements after being on-boarded:
• Details of Team deployed for Desktop Assessment and Inspection to be shared with their
sectoral competency after getting on-boarded by the selected agency
Selected agency to share policy related to Blacklisting, Compliance, Code of conduct etc.
6. Team Structure
• The Inspection Agency (bidder’s) team would comprise of the following:
o Team Leader
o Quality Assurance team with demonstrated experience in service, agriculture,
manufacturing and engineering sectors and quality assurance work
o Operations team comprising of Desk Assessors and Inspectors for visiting the Centres
should be suitably qualified and experienced as per the job role to be validated at the
Centre. The number of inspectors to be deployed would be determined by the Inspection
Agency (bidder)
• The Team Leader would be the one point contact in the Inspection Agency with whom NSDC
would be interacting with. The QA team would ensure that quality is maintained in the
operations of the Inspection Agency. The QA team members would sign off the validation report
as recommended by its inspector for each Training Centre and only then the process of validation
by Inspection Agency would be deemed complete. The Operation Heads are expected to ensure
coordination amongst the operations of the Inspector to achieve cost efficiencies and higher
effectiveness through coordination. The Inspectors would inspect the Training Centre for
validation and for surprise visits.
• The resumes of the Team leader, QA team ( members of service, Healthcare, agriculture and
manufacturing sector) and lead inspectors would be evaluated for scoring in the technical
competency section. The requirements are given below.
Team Composition &Qualification Requirements for the Members are as below:
Nature of
Key
Personnel
Number
of
Persons
Qualification Experience Desired Profile for the Key
Personnel
Team
Lead
1 MBA/ Masters
from a reputed
Institution
Minimum of 10
years professional
Experience
including working
Overall responsibility of the
success of the program as
per the Terms of reference
and empanelment.
52 | P a g e
on projects on
validation,
ratings, skills,
vocational
education and
other relevant
field to this
assignment.
- Should have leadership,
business acumen,
teamwork, time
management, excellent
communication abilities
and analytical thinking.
- Liaise with NSDC on
project implementation
and periodically assess
project progress. Take
mid-course corrective
action as required.
- Serve as the point of
contact for internal and
external
communication,
providing a single
consistent interface and
regional operations
resource, Lead project
implementation and
oversee all technical and
managerial decisions
related to delivery
including M&E systems,
capacity building, and
stakeholder
management;
- Ensure quality oversight
of all products and
services provided by the
program.
- Evaluate the impact of
validation
methodologies in use,
on an on-going basis.
QA Team Required
as per the
number
of
Centres
available
for
validation
Minimum
Graduate,
preferably BE/
B.Tech in
manufacturing/
engineering/
services/
Healthcare/
Agriculture
sectors
Minimum of 5 to 7
years professional
experience in
the sector
including working
on
projects on
quality assurance,
validation,
Ratings, skills,
vocational
Coordinate and supervise
all the quality control
activities related to the
project.
- Should have leadership,
business acumen,
teamwork, time
management,
excellent
communication abilities
53
education and
other relevant
field to this
Assignment.
and analytical thinking
- Supervise, train,
monitor and assist
inspectors
- Perform quality control
on inspector’s work to ensure the client
receives quality service.
- Review inspection
reports and monitor the
effectiveness of the
inspections.
- Communicate with
clients and team, other
stakeholders involved
- Identify defects and
their causes, find ways
to improve, run tests.
- Identify and record
quality problems.
Initiate actions to
prevent occurrence of
conformance and verify
implementation
solutions.
- Conduct quality training
for inspectors
- Participate in
Inspections on a sample
basis including surprise
inspections. Carry out
quality audits
Desk
Assessors
and
Inspectors
Required
as per the
number
of
Centres
available
for
validation
Minimum
Graduate,
preferably BE/
B.Tech in
manufacturing/
engineering/
services/
Healthcare/
Agriculture
sectors
Minimum 3 to 5
years of
experience in the
respective sector
- Inspect the Centre as
per Accreditation
Standards Checklist laid
down by SSC for
concerned job roles at
the Training Centre.
- Knowledge of the
sector/ job role for
which he/she goes for
the inspection.
- Knowledge of the use of
IT tools including tablet/
smart phone to capture
the data points including
geo tagged and time
stamped pictures.
54 | P a g e
- Submit the report of
validation to the QA
team on time , so that
the Client / SSC / other
stakeholders receive
quality reports with in
the Timelines
4. Term of Payments
The service fee for Validation for Training Provider and Training Centre shall be paid on the
Terms of Payment Milestones as specified below:
S.No. Particulars Payment Milestone for TP and TC DA
1. Desktop Assessment of Training
Provider Registration form
Amount decided as per contract will
be paid once application is Deemed
Ready
2. Desktop Assessment of Training Centre
Accreditation Application form (CAAF)
Amount decided as per contract will
be paid once application is Deemed
Ready
S.No. Particulars Payment Milestone for Inspection
1 Completion of Physical Inspection and
Submission of Inspection Report
60% of the Field Verification amount
decided as per contract
2 (a) Inspection Agency recommends
Accreditation for the Training Centre
and SSC agrees with the
recommendations of the Inspection
Agency
35% of the Field Verification amount
decided as per contract
2 (b) Inspection Agency recommends
Accreditation for the Training Centre
and SSC does not agree with the
recommendations of the Inspection
Agency
a) The case is taken to Accreditation
Committee and the Committee takes a
decision in favour of the Inspection
Agency.
b) The case is taken to Accreditation
Committee and the committee takes a
decision in favour of SSC’s observations.
a) 35% of the Field Verification
amount decided as per
contract will be paid
b) 35% of the Field Verification
amount decided as per
contract will not be paid
2 (c) Inspection Agency does not recommend
Accreditation for the Training Centre
55
and Training Centres Appeals to
Accreditation Committee:
a) Committee takes a decision in favour
of the Inspection Agency.
b) Committee takes a decision in favour
of Training Center.
a) 35% of the Field Verification
amount decided as per
contract will be paid
b) 35% of the Field Verification
amount decided as per
contract will not be paid
2 (d) Inspection Agency does not recommend
Accreditation for the Training Centre
and Training Centres does not appeal to
Accreditation Committee within 15 days
of receiving the result of accreditation
status
35% of the Field Verification amount
decided as per contract
S.No. Particulars Payment Milestone for Continuous
Monitoring
1 (a) Desktop Assessment of response
received from TC for Continuous
Monitoring push notifications
Amount decided for SAR Report (push
notifications) as per the contract will
be paid per push notifications
2 (b) Surprise Inspections (10% of overall TCs) Amount decided for Continuous
Monitoring – Normal States, UTs,
Special Areas as per the contract
Payment Schedule and Service Level Agreement:
• Invoices may be raised on monthly basis for the number of Centers visited.
• For every payment due to the empaneled bidder in case of Center Validation and Surprise
Visit, 95% of the amount shall be paid, and the remaining 5% amount shall be made at the
end of the year from the date of awarding the contract, after reviewing the yearly
performance/services/deliverables/ timelines/ complaints and any other factor that may
need consideration. Performance of Inspection Agency shall be monitored by NSDC.
Service Level Agreement
Penal Clauses - Validation and Continuous Monitoring of Training Centres in the Skills
Ecosystem
Particulars of Delay & Faults Penalty to be imposed
Evaluation of CAAF:
Delay by the Inspection Agency to perform Desktop
Assessment of CAAF.
A penalty of 1% of fee fixed for
Desktop Assessment of CAAF per
day per centre for delay beyond
56 | P a g e
the maximum days’ timeline as
provided in Table Turn Around
Time for DA and Inspection.
On Site Centre Inspection (Physical Inspection is Mandatory):
Delay for on-site Field Visit for the Training Centres. A penalty of 1% of amount due for
Completion of on-site Field Visit
per day per center for delay
beyond the maximum days’ timeline as provided in Table Turn
Around Time for DA and Inspection
Delay by Inspection Agency to submit the Centre
Validation Report with recommendations of Accreditation
status to stakeholders
A penalty of 1% of amount due for
Submission of on-site Field Visit
report per day per center for delay
beyond the maximum days’ timeline as provided in Table Turn
Around Time for DA and Inspection
Note: The Amount of Penalty per Training Centre shall not cross the fee payable for the respective
payment milestone to which the particular delay pertains.
Particulars of Delay & Faults Penalty to be imposed
Review by the Accreditation/ Appellate/ Any other Committee:
Recommendation as provided by the Inspection Agency is
found inappropriate or incorrect as decided by the
Accreditation Committee.
Inspection Agency will not be paid
35% of the total amount due for
Inspection for the center (amount
decided as per contract). If the
Committee directs the Inspection
Agency for physically revisiting the
Training Centre, no extra payment
shall be made to the Inspection
Agency for such cases.
Continuous Monitoring
If it is found that the SAR report / document submitted by
the Inspection Agency was fabricated/ misrepresented/
forged by Inspection Agency.
At First Instance: Centre monitoring
fee for that report shall not be paid
by NSDC.
At Second Instance (not necessarily
related to that specific centre):
Centre monitoring fee for that report
57
shall not be paid by NSDC and, NSDC
may terminate the Agreement.
Delay by Inspection Agency to submit SAR to NSDC. A penalty of 1% of the monthly
monitoring fee per day submission of
that SAR.
Notwithstanding anything contained anywhere in the Agreement, all penal clauses as mentioned in
above table will be effective only from the date of signing of this Agreement between the Parties.
Also, in case if any activity is on hold due to specific request by NSDC or pending any clarification
from NSDC, Inspection Agency shall not be liable to pay any penalty. Also, in case of any
change/variation in the accreditation guidelines or the process (including any changes in portal or
software), Inspection Agency shall be provided mutually agreed time to stabilize the operation and
during such period, no penalties can be imposed for any delay.
5. Review and Reporting
The performance and deliverables of the service provider will be reviewed as per the ToR and
scope of work by NSDC on continuous basis.
6. Confidentiality
Except with the prior written consent of NSDC, the Service provider shall not at any time
communicate to any person or entity any confidential information acquired in the course of
the Services, nor shall the Service provider make public the recommendations formulated in
the course of, or as a result of, the Services.
7. NSDC reserves the right to cancel the RFP process at any point of time.
8. In case price discovered post RFP process is not feasible, NSDC reserves the right to cancel the
Procurement process.
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Tentative format of agreement
THIS Framework Agreement (“Framework Agreement”) is entered into this 19th day of December
2017 by and between
1. National Skill Development Corporation, (CIN: U85300DL2008NPL181612) a company
registered under Companies Act, 1956 having its registered office at 301, 3rd Floor, West
Wing, Worldmark-1, Aero City, New Delhi – 110 037 (hereinafter referred to as “NSDC” or “the Purchaser”), and
2. [enter firm name] (CIN: [enter CIN], a company registered under [Enter statute name]
having its registered office at [enter registered office address] (hereinafter referred to as
“the Firm” OR “Service Provider”).
This Agreement is a binding contract but imposes no obligation on the Purchaser to purchase the
estimated or any quantity from the Firm. The Purchaser and Firm may hereinafter be referred singly
as “Party” and collectively as “Parties”.
WHEREAS, the Purchaser wishes to have the Firm supply the Goods or Services hereinafter referred
to, and
WHEREAS, the Firm is willing to supply these Goods or Services,
NOW THEREFORE THE PARTIES hereby agree as follows:
1. Scope
1.1. The Purchaser has entered into this Framework Agreements with the Firm in order to allow
Purchaser to award an order (“Order” or Purchase Order”) under the Framework Agreement.
1.2. The Firm shall supply the Goods or Services as and when the NSDC issues the Orders
specifying the details of Goods or Services to be delivered along with the delivery schedule and
consignee’s address. 1.3. If the Firm rejects/ does not provide quotation when such a request is sought to award an
order, over three times, the Purchaser shall be entitled to terminate this Framework agreement.
1.4. The indicative scope of the work/ goods and services to be provided by the Firm is provided
in Annexure-1
2. Term
This framework agreement shall be effective from []and shall be valid for a period of [] during
the period commencing from the date of empanelment.
3. Standards
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The Goods or Services supplied under this Agreement shall conform to the standards mentioned
in the Technical Specifications/Scope of Work and, when no applicable standard is mentioned,
to the authoritative standards appropriate to the Goods’ country of origin.
4. Use of Documents and Information
The Service provider shall not, without the Purchaser’s prior written consent, disclose the Agreement, or any provision thereof, or any specification, plan, drawing, pattern, sample, or
information furnished by or on behalf of the Purchaser in connection therewith, to any person
other than a person employed by the Firm in the performance of the Agreement.
5. Fraud and Corruption
5.1. Under this Framework Agreement means: (a): "Corrupt Practice": means offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting anything of value to
influence the action of NSDC’s official)s(: in the procurement process or in the Framework
Agreement execution; and
(b) "Fraudulent Practice":means a misrepresentation of facts in order to influence a procurement
process or the execution of the Framework Agreement and includes collusive practices among
Firms )prior to or after bid submission(:designed to establish bid: proposal prices at artificial, non-:competitive levels:
5.2. It should be kept in mind that all actions towards award of Framework Agreement and its
implementation on the ground have to be fair, consistent, transparent and based on highest
standard of ethics: : Similarly, the Firm is expected to observe the highest standard of ethics
during procurement and execution of Framework Agreement: : 5.3. In pursuance to above: : 5.3.1. Framework Agreement may be immediately terminated, if NSDC determines that the Firm
and: or its employees, sub-contractors, sub-consultant, sub-:vendors, agents have engaged
in corrupt or fraudulent practices in competing for the Framework Agreement;
5.3.2. Portion of the funds allocated to a Framework Agreement may be cancelled, in full or in part,
if it is determined that corrupt or fraudulent practices were engaged by the Firm and: or its
employees, subcontractors: sub-consultants, sub-vendors, agents for getting the Framework
Agreement or during the execution of a Framework Agreement;
5.3.3. The Service Provider may be declared as ineligible, either indefinitely or for a stated period
of time, to be awarded the Framework Agreement or any contract, if NSDC, at any time,
determines that the Firm has been engaged in corrupt or fraudulent practices in competing
for or in executing the Framework Agreement: :
6. Conflict of Interest
The Service provider declares that it (or any affiliate that directly or indirectly controls, is
controlled by, or is under common control with Firm) has not been engaged by the Purchaser to
provide consulting services for the preparation of the design, specifications, and other
documents to be used for the procurement of the Goods described in this framework
agreement.
7. Registration of Goods
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If required under the Applicable Law, Goods supplied under the Agreement shall be registered
for use in India.
8. Performance Security
Within twenty-one (21) days from date of signing of the Framework Agreement award, the Firm
shall furnish to the Purchaser the performance security of [Rs. 10 lakhs] The performance
security shall be denominated in Indian Rupees, and shall be in the form of an unconditional
bank guarantee issued by a nationalized/scheduled bank located in India acceptable to the
Purchaser, in the format provided by the Purchaser. The performance security will be returned
to the Firm not later than thirty (30) days following the date of expiry of the Framework
Agreement and Orders issued under this Framework Agreement, including any warranty
obligations.
9. Inspections and Tests
Pre-dispatch inspection (to check compliance to technical specifications/scope of work defined
in annexure - 1) may be carried out by the Purchaser or an Firm appointed and paid by Purchaser
for this purpose. Goods shall be dispatched only after receipt of satisfactory inspection report
and communication to this effect by NSDC/ Inspection Firm. These tests will be prior intimated
by NSDC to the Firm and will be done if required.
10. Packing
The Firm shall provide such packing of the Goods (if required) as is required to prevent their
damage or deterioration during transit to their final destination, as indicated in the Order.
11. Delivery and Documents
11.1. Delivery of the Goods/Services shall be made by the Firm in accordance with the terms
specified in the Orders/Scope of Work. The shipping and/or other documents to be
furnished by the Firm are (a) two originals and two copies of the Firm’s invoice, showing Purchaser, the Framework Agreement number, Order number; Goods’ description, quantity, unit price, and total amount. Invoices must be signed in original and stamped or sealed with
the company stamp/seal; (b) two copies of delivery note showing Purchaser’s name and delivery through to final destination as stated in the Order; (c) one original of the
manufacturer’s or Firm’s Warranty certificate covering all items supplied; and (d) copy of the Certificate of Inspection furnished to Firm by the nominated inspection Firm (where
inspection is required).
11.2. Documents or soft files will be sent to NSDC as per requirements of the assignment. Final
product should be in ready to print/work or high-resolution files as desired by the concerned
section/division. Firm will be responsible for taking precautionary measures against any
plagiarism, or copy righted material; that must not to be used for NSDC assignment.
12. Insurance
The Goods/Services supplied under the Orders to be issued under the Agreement shall be
adequately insured against loss or damage incidental to manufacture or acquisition,
transportation, storage, and delivery.
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13. Transportation
The price indicated in Orders for Goods/Services shall include the cost of transportation.
14. Payment
Hundred (100) percent of the Price of Goods/Services received under each Order shall be paid
by NSDC within thirty (30) days of receipt of the Goods/Services upon submission of valid invoice
and other documents described in Clause 12 of this Framework Agreement.
15. Prices
NSDC shall issue the Order either through Email or post/courier or physical delivery. The details
about the price / rate, taxes and incidental expenses e.g. insurance, delivery charges, octroi,
loading and unloading charges etc., as determined by NSDC and agreed by Firm in accordance
with the Request for Quotation/Proposal (if any) process, shall be mentioned in each respective
Purchases Order. NSDC will ask for the quotation from Empaneled firms to obtain their financial
costs for the requirement. The Firm will be selected based on Substantive responsive and Lowest
Evaluated price.
16. Amendments
Any variation or modification to this Framework Agreement or the Orders shall be made only by
written amendment signed by the Parties.
17. Assignment
The Firm shall not assign, in whole or in part, its obligations to perform under this Framework
Agreement, except with the Purchaser’s prior written consent.
18. Delays in the Firm’s Performance Delivery of the Goods/Services and performance of related Services shall be made by the Firm
in accordance with the time schedule prescribed by the Purchaser in the Order. If at any time
during performance of the Order, the Firm should encounter conditions impeding timely delivery
of the Goods and performance of Services, the Firm shall promptly notify the Purchaser in writing
of the fact of the delay, it’s likely duration, and its cause(s). As soon as practicable after receipt
of the Firm’s notice, the Purchaser shall evaluate the situation and may at its discretion extend the Firm’s time for performance, with or without liquidated damages, in which case the extension shall be ratified by the parties by amendment of the Order.
19. Liquidated Damages
Subject to Clause 18, if the Firm fails to deliver any or all of the Goods or to perform the Services
within the period(s) specified in the Order, the Purchaser shall, without prejudice to its other
remedies under the Agreement, deduct from the Order Price, as liquidated damages, a sum
equivalent to 0.5% of price of the delayed Goods or unperformed Services for each week or part
thereof of delay until actual delivery or performance, up to a maximum deduction of the 10% of
the Order price. Once the maximum is reached, the Purchaser may consider termination of the
Framework Agreement or the Order pursuant to Clause 20.
20. Termination for Default
20.1 The Purchases may terminate this Agreement with immediate effect, with a written
notice, if the Firm, in the judgment of the Purchaser has engaged in fraud and corruption,
as defined in Clause 5, in competing for or in executing the Framework Agreement.
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20.2 The Purchaser, without prejudice to any other remedy for breach of the Agreement, by
written notice of fifteen (15) days of default sent to the Firm, may terminate this
Agreement in whole or in part:
(a) if the Firm fails to deliver any or all of the Goods or services within the period(s) specified
in the Order, or within any extension thereof granted by the Purchaser; or
(b) if the Goods or services do not meet the Technical Specifications/Scope of Work or
registration requirement (if any) stated in the Framework Agreement and / Order; or
(c) if the Firm fails to perform any other obligation(s) under the Framework Agreement.
20.3 In the event the Purchaser terminates the Framework Agreement in whole or in part,
pursuant to this Clause, the Purchaser may procure, upon such terms and in such manner
as it deems appropriate, Goods or Services similar to those undelivered under Orders
issued prior to such termination, and the Firm shall be liable to the Purchaser for any
excess costs for such similar Goods or Services.
21. Termination for Insolvency
The Purchaser may at any time terminate the Agreement by giving written notice to the Firm if
the Service Provider becomes bankrupt or otherwise insolvent.
22. Termination for Convenience
The Purchaser, by written notice sent to the Firm, may terminate the Framework Agreement or
the Order, in whole or in part, at any time for its convenience. The notice of termination shall
specify that termination is for the Purchaser’s convenience, the extent to which performance of the Firm under the Agreement or Order is terminated, and the date upon which such termination
becomes effective. The Goods or Services that are already supplied before the Firm’s receipt of notice of termination shall be accepted by the Purchaser at the terms and prices described in
the Framework Agreement and the Order.
23. Dispute Resolution
Any dispute arising out of this Framework Agreement, which cannot be amicably settled
between the Parties, shall be referred to adjudication/arbitration in accordance with the
Arbitration and Conciliation Act of 1996 of India. The venue of adjudication/arbitration shall be
New Delhi.
24. Applicable Law
The Agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws of Union of India.
25. Notices
Any notice given by one Party to the other pursuant to this Framework Agreement shall be sent
to the other Party in writing. The Purchaser’s addresses for notice purposes is: CEO and Managing Director, NSDC
National Skill Development Corporation
301, West Wing, Worldmark-1,
Aero City, New Delhi – 110 037
Phone: +011-47451600-10
The Firm’s addresses for notice purposes is: []
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26. Taxes and Duties
The Firm shall be entirely responsible for all taxes, duties, license fees, etc., incurred until
delivery of the contracted Goods or services to the Purchaser.
27. Intellectual Property
27.1 The Service Provider agrees not to use or misuse or register as the owner, licensee, or cause
to be registered, nor assist any other person or entity in misusing or in registering as the
owner or causing to be registered, in any part of the world, any trademark, trade name,
service mark, copyrights, insignias, symbols, know-how, trade dress, slogans and logos,
photographs and images currently used and to be used in the future (including emblems,
services and rights in the distinctive design and signs, or combinations thereof) and all
similar proprietary rights belonging to NSDC or associated with NSDC’s work / Services (“Intellectual Property”).
27.2 The Service Provider understands that the data and information are collected and compiled
for NSDC in order to meet its business requirements. The information collected for this
assignment as well as provided by Service Provider to NSDC are the sole and absolute
property of NSDC. Service Provider understands and appreciates that the formats prepared
and the data submitted by Service Provider to NSDC therefore constitute trade secrets.
Service Provider therefore understands and acknowledges that the property including
formats, data and information collected by its personnel in terms hereof are the sole and
absolute property of NSDC.
27.3 The Service Provider hereby agrees and undertakes that it has no interest whatsoever in the
information collected by it and the formats created and shall not use the same for any
purposes whatsoever other than as set out in this Framework Agreement.
27.4 The Service Provider hereby represents and warrants that none of its activity, software,
documentation etc. used under this Framework Agreement and / or provided to NSDC does
or will infringe any Intellectual Property Rights held by any third party and that it has all
necessary rights or at its sole expense shall have secured in writing all transfers of rights and
other consents necessary to make the assignments, licenses, and other transfers of
Intellectual Property Rights for NSDC to own or exercise all Intellectual Property Rights as
provided in this Framework Agreement. The Service Provider further represents and
warrants that it has secured / shall secure all necessary written agreements, consents, and
transfers of rights from its employees and other persons or entities whose services are used
for providing Services.
27.5 The Service Provider hereby represents and warrants that none of its activity, software,
documentation etc. used under this Framework Agreement and / or provided to NSDC does
or will infringe any Intellectual Property Rights held by any third party and that it has all
necessary rights or at its sole expense shall have secured in writing all transfers of rights and
other consents necessary to make the assignments, licenses, and other transfers of
Intellectual Property Rights for NSDC to own or exercise all Intellectual Property Rights as
provided in this Framework Agreement. The Service Provider further represents and
warrants that it has secured / shall secure all necessary written agreements, consents, and
transfers of rights from its employees and other persons or entities whose services are used
for providing Services.
27.6 The Service Provider, subject to any restrictions applicable to any third-party materials
embodied in the Deliverables, hereby grants to NSDC a perpetual and exclusive rights to
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use, copy and prepare derivative works of the Deliverables, for purposes of publication and
/ or NSDC’s internal business (which includes any business associated with any Ministry of India) only. All other intellectual property rights in the Deliverables shall remain with and/or
are assigned to NSDC
The term, "Deliverables", means:materials that are originated and / or prepared for NSDC
by the Service Provider (either independently or jointly with NSDC or third parties) and
delivered / to be delivered to NSDC during the course of Service Provider’s performance under this Framework Agreement
27.7 NSDC shall have or obtain no rights in any Service Provider Knowledge Base other than (a)
to use the same on a non exclusive and non transferable basis and otherwise as authorized
by Service Provider, (b) to the extent the Service Provider Knowledge Base is incorporated
into a Deliverable, to use it on a non exclusive and non transferable basis as part of the
Deliverable for purposes of NSDC’s internal business objective (which includes any business associated with any Ministry of India), or (c) pursuant to Service Provider ’s standard licence for such Service Provider Knowledge Base or, in the case of Service Provider Knowledge Base
owned by third parties, pursuant to terms acceptable to the applicable third party and as
intimated to NSDC by Service Provider. If any Service Provider Knowledge Base is made
available to NSDC under (a) above, it will be made available in an “AS IS” condition and without express or implied warranties of any kind; and any Service Provider Knowledge Base
made available under (c) above shall be subject only to applicable terms of the applicable
licence.
The term, " Service Provider Knowledge Base ", means material existing prior to
commencement of the Framework Agreement, or developed outside the scope of the
services under this Framework Agreement, that are proprietary to Service Provider or to
third parties, including all intellectual property rights therein and together with any
enhancements and/or modifications thereto, provided that such enhancements and/ or
modifications are not developed as part of the Deliverables under this Framework
Agreement
27.8 The Parties shall cooperate with each other and execute such other documents as may be
necessary or appropriate to achieve the objectives of this Clause.
27.9 The Service Provider shall be free to use its general knowledge, skills and experience, and
any ideas, concepts, know-how, and techniques (which does not contain any information,
data, input etc. of the Services or any reference of this) that are acquired or used in the
course of providing the Services.
27.10 This Clause shall survive the termination or expiry of this Framework Agreement.
28. Confidentiality
28.1 During the course of performance of the obligations under this Framework Agreement, the
Service Provider may have access to information which could be confidential and
proprietary information of NSDC as well as of its associates, affiliates, partners or its clients,
including but not limited to business plans, financial information, mechanisms, business
related functions, activities and services, computer lists, knowledge of customer needs and
preferences, trade secrets, business strategies, marketing strategies, methods of
operation, tax records, markets, data or other proprietary information relating to products,
processes, know-how, designs, formulas, developmental or experimental work, computer
programs, data bases, other original works of authorship, other valuable information,
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personally identifiable information, confidential information and trade related information
relating to the activities of NSDC or its associates and partners (collectively the
“Confidential Information”). Any Confidential Information shall be considered confidential
regardless of whether or not it is expressly marked as being confidential or proprietary and
regardless of the form in which such information is communicated to the Service Provider,
whether it be oral, in writing or by any other form or mode of communication (including,
but not limited to electronic or magnetic recordings and e-mail communications).
28.2 The Service Provider agrees and undertakes not to disclose or disseminate (or cause to be
disclosed or disseminated), whether directly or indirectly, Confidential Information to any
third party, without the express prior written authorization by NSDC. Without prejudice to
the generality of the foregoing, it is understood that Confidential Information may be
disclosed by the Service Provider only for the purpose of complying with its contractual
obligations under this Framework Agreement. In any event, the Service Provider shall
ensure that any person to whom Confidential Information is communicated by the Service
Provider, must abide by the terms of this Clause 28 as if they were themselves a party to it.
28.3 Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Service Provider may disclose Confidential Information,
while safeguarding to the greatest extent possible the confidential nature of the
Confidential Information, to its legal advisors, tax consultants and accountants or other
member firms of Service Provider or Service Provider’s information technology vendors for the purpose of performance of its obligations under this Framework Agreement only and
not for any other purpose or for carrying out internal, support, administrative, support,
financial purposes, risk management or other quality checks for the Service Provider after
obtaining prior written permission from NSDC.
28.4 The Service Provider undertakes not to use (and to take reasonable efforts to cause any
person to whom it has communicated Confidential Information not to use) Confidential
Information, except in accordance with this Framework Agreement. More generally,
nothing in this Framework Agreement related to the disclosure of Confidential Information
shall be interpreted as a licence, implicit or explicit, to use the Confidential Information in
any manner other than as contemplated herein or, more generally, for the purpose for
which it was disclosed.
28.5 The Service Provider shall, in particular, take all reasonable measures, which are
appropriate to safeguard the Confidential Information. The Service Provider shall
immediately inform NSDC in writing of any unauthorized use or disclosure of Confidential
Information of which it may become aware and it shall assist NSDC in ending such
unauthorized use or disclosure.
28.6 All Confidential Information (including, but not limited to, documents, drawings, sketches
and electronic or magnetic recordings and e-mail communications) on which Confidential
Information appears or is recorded shall remain the NSDC’s property. Accordingly, except for the purpose of sharing Confidential Information with persons to whom disclosure is
permitted, the Service Provider unequivocally undertakes not to make any copies of
Confidential Information without the NSDC’s prior written consent and it shall immediately, at NSDC’s first request (i) return to NSDC or destroy all copies of such Confidential Information it may be holding; and (ii) confirm in writing to NSDC that any such media
containing Confidential Information in any form has been returned to NSDC or completely
destroyed so that the Confidential Information is no longer readily recoverable. Provided
however, that the Service Provider may retain such copies of such Confidential Information
that may be required by it for its legal and regulatory purposes.
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28.7 At NSDC’s request, the Service Provider shall provide NSDC with a detailed list of any person(s) to whom Confidential Information has been disclosed/ communicated by it.
28.8 It is understood that Confidential Information shall not include any information which:
(i) has entered the public domain prior to its disclosure or subsequently, provided in the latter
case that such entry was not due to the Service Provider’s action or inaction, or due to the action or inaction of any third party to whom it may have communicated Confidential
Information;
(ii) was received from a third party in a lawful and unrestricted manner without violation of
the terms hereof or of the terms of a similar agreement; and
(iii) was known to the Service Provider at the time of its disclosure, the burden of proof in such
case being placed on the Service Provider.
28.9 In the event the Service Provider is required, under any law or by a court order, to disclose
any Confidential Information, it may make only such disclosure while safeguarding to the
greatest extent possible the confidential nature of the Confidential Information that would
satisfy the requirement of such law or such court order, as the case may be, and nothing
more. It is further agreed that before making any such disclosure, the Service Provider shall
consult NSDC to the extent legally permissible and reasonably practicable in the
circumstances.
28.10 The Service Provider recognizes that the protection of Confidential Information is
essential to NSDC and that any unauthorized disclosure of Confidential Information is likely
to cause NSDC significant harm and prejudice. Accordingly, without prejudice to any other
recourse available to NSDC (including injunctive or interlocutory relief), the Service
Provider acknowledges, agrees and undertakes that in the event of a breach of any terms
of this Clause 29 caused by it or any third party to whom such Confidential Information has
been disclosed, the Service Provider shall hold NSDC harmless and fully indemnified which
NSDC may have suffered as a result of such disclosure.
28.11 This Clause shall survive the termination or expiry of this Framework Agreement.
29. Indemnity
29.1 Without limiting any other rights which NSDC may have under this Framework Agreement
and under law, the Service Provider shall indemnify, defend, hold harmless and keep
indemnified NSDC, its associates, partners or its directors or its employees from and against
any claim or loss including without limitation, fines, penalties, fees, damage, costs (including
legal fees and expenses) liability (whether criminal or civil) suffered and/or incurred by
NSDC, its affiliates or its directors or its employees arising from or in connection with the
supply of goods and / or performance of the services by the Service Provider under this
Framework Agreement or due to any breach of the terms and condition of this Framework
Agreement including any covenants, obligations and representations and warranties of the
Service Provider, or with any applicable laws and regulations governing the performance of
the Services by the Service Provider under this Framework Agreement.
29.2 The Firm shall indemnify the Purchaser against all third-party claims of infringement of
patent, trademark, or industrial design rights arising from use of the Goods or any part
thereof
29.3 The provisions of this Clause shall survive the termination or expiry of this Framework
Agreement.
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30. Relationship
30.1 Nothing contained herein shall be construed as creating a partnership or a joint venture
or a principal - agent or an employer-employee relationship between the Parties. The
Service Provider shall always remain an independent Service Provider during the term of
this Framework Agreement and shall always solely remain liable to NSDC or any third
party for all its acts and omissions to act during the course of providing the Services under
this Framework Agreement. The Service Provider unequivocally, unambiguously,
irrevocably and explicitly acknowledges that this Framework Agreement is not subject to
any employment law(s) or related statute(s)
30.2 This Clause shall survive the termination or expiry of this Framework Agreement.
31. Waiver
The failure of either NSDC or the Service Provider to enforce, in any one or more instances,
performance of any of the terms, covenants or conditions of this Framework Agreement shall
not be construed as a waiver or a relinquishment of any right or claim granted or arising
hereunder or of the future performance of any such term, covenant, or condition, and such
failure shall in no way affect the validity of this Framework Agreement or the rights and
obligations of NSDC and the Service Provider hereto. NSDC and the Service Provider
acknowledge that a waiver of any term or provision hereof may only be given by a written
instrument executed by each of NSDC and the Service Provider, as the case may be, hereto.
32. Severability
Any provision of this Framework Agreement which is prohibited, unenforceable or is
declared or found to be illegal, unenforceable or void in any jurisdiction shall, as to such
jurisdiction, be ineffective only to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without
invalidating the remainder of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Framework
Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other
jurisdiction. If any such invalidity substantially affects or alters the commercial basis of this
Framework Agreement, NSDC and the Service Provider shall negotiate in good faith to amend
and modify the provisions and terms of this Framework Agreement as may be necessary or
desirable in the circumstances to achieve, as closely as possible, the same economic or
commercial effect as the original provisions and terms of this Framework Agreement.
*********************execution page follows ************************
IN WITNESS WHEREOF THE PARTIES HERETO HAVE EXECUTED THESE PRESENTS ON THE DAY AND
YEAR FIRST HERE IN ABOVE WRITTEN.
For and on behalf of National Skill
Development Corporation
For and on behalf of []
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------------------------------------
Name: Manish Kumar
Designation: Managing Director & Chief
Executive Officer
--------------------------------
Name:
Designation:
In the presence of witnesses:
-------------------------------------
Name:
Address: 301, 3rd Floor, West Wing , World
Mark 1, Asset 11, Aerocity, New Delhi
110037
In the presence of witnesses:
---------------------------------
Name:
Address:
ANNEXURE -1- Scope of work and Specifications