Technical specifications contained in the Tender Documents

(1) The technical specifications contained in the tender documents shall include a detailed description of what is proposed to be procured. (2) Unbiased technical specifications shall be prepared by observing the following safeguards, namely.-(a) use of brand names and catalogue numbers shall be avoided and where it becomes unavoidable, along with the brand name the expression “or equivalent” shall be added: Provided that such specifications should as far as practicable specify the output or service levels to be delivered. (b) wherever possible the appropriate Indian Standards with the number shall be incorporated; (c) in the case of construction tenders, detailed estimates shall be prepared by the competent technical authorities based on the schedule of rates and standard data as revised from time to time: Provided that for large and prestigious projects, the Government shall permit any Procuring Entity to engage a qualified private architect or consultant to prepare the design and estimates; and (d) in case alternative designs or materials are permitted, the conditions for their acceptability and the method of their evaluation shall be clearly stated.