Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Late Bids
Original Rule Text
Visual Summary
Timeliness is paramount in bid submission.
Late bids are automatically rejected.
Ensures equitable treatment for all bidders.
Executive Summary
Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, unequivocally states that bids received after the specified deadline will not be considered. This rule underscores the importance of strict adherence to submission timelines in the procurement process, ensuring fairness and preventing any undue advantage or disruption to the established bidding schedule. It applies to all types of bids, emphasizing punctuality as a fundamental requirement.
In-Depth Analysis of the Rule
Rule 188 is a concise yet critical provision within the General Financial Rules, 2017, designed to maintain the integrity and efficiency of the government procurement system. Its primary objective is to eliminate ambiguity and potential for favoritism by establishing a clear, non-negotiable standard for bid submission deadlines.
Breakdown of the Rule
- Strict Deadline Enforcement: The rule mandates that any bid submitted after the officially declared date and time for receipt will be automatically disqualified.
- No Exceptions: It does not provide for any discretionary power to accept late bids, regardless of the reasons for the delay, reinforcing a level playing field for all participants.
- Purpose: This strictness aims to prevent manipulation of the bidding process, ensure timely project execution, and uphold the principle of transparency in public procurement.
Practical Example
Consider a government tender for IT services with a submission deadline of 3:00 PM on October 26, 2024. A vendor, due to a technical glitch or traffic delay, submits their bid at 3:05 PM. According to Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, this bid, despite its content, must be rejected. This ensures that other vendors who submitted on time are not disadvantaged and the integrity of the deadline is preserved.
Related Provisions
Understanding Rule 188 is enhanced by reviewing other rules governing the procurement process:
- Rule 187 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Receipt and Opening of Proposals: Details the procedure for receiving and opening proposals, which directly precedes the consideration of bid timeliness.
- Rule 161 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Advertised Tender Enquiry: Outlines the process for inviting bids through advertisement, setting the stage for bid submission.
- Rule 173 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Transparency Competition Fairness: Establishes the overarching principles of fairness and transparency that Rule 188 helps to uphold.
Learning Aids
Mnemonics
- Late Arrivals Totally Excluded: A simple reminder that late bids are not considered.
Process Flowchart
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What is the primary directive of Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017 regarding bid submissions?
- A) Late bids are accepted with a penalty.
- B) Late bids are considered under special circumstances.
- C) Late bids should not be considered.
- D) Late bids require approval from a higher authority.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) Late bids should not be considered.
2. According to Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, what happens if a bid is received after the specified date and time?
- A) It is held for review by a committee.
- B) It is automatically disqualified.
- C) The bidder is contacted for an explanation.
- D) It is placed at the bottom of the evaluation list.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B) It is automatically disqualified.
3. The principle of Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017 primarily aims to ensure:
- A) Flexibility in procurement.
- B) Fairness and transparency in bidding.
- C) Expedited project completion.
- D) Increased participation from all vendors.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B) Fairness and transparency in bidding.
4. Does Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017 allow for exceptions to the late bid policy based on unforeseen circumstances?
- A) Yes, with documented proof.
- B) Yes, if approved by the Head of Department.
- C) No, the rule is absolute.
- D) Only for government-owned entities.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) No, the rule is absolute.
5. Which chapter of The General Financial Rules, 2017 does Rule 188 fall under?
- A) Chapter 3 – Budget Formulation and Implementation
- B) Chapter 6 – Procurement of Goods and Services
- C) Chapter 7 – Inventory Management
- D) Chapter 8 – Contract Management
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B) Chapter 6 – Procurement of Goods and Services
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are late bids not considered under Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017?
Late bids are not considered to ensure fairness, maintain transparency, and prevent any potential for manipulation or favoritism in the competitive bidding process. Strict deadlines create a level playing field for all participants.
Are there any exceptions to Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017 for bids submitted due to technical issues or force majeure?
Rule 188 is absolute and does not provide for exceptions. Bids received after the specified date and time, regardless of the reason, are not to be considered. This strictness is fundamental to the integrity of the procurement system.
How does Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017 contribute to good financial management?
By enforcing strict timelines, Rule 188 promotes efficiency in the procurement cycle, reduces administrative burden associated with evaluating delayed submissions, and minimizes risks of disputes, thereby contributing to sound financial management and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, mandates the rejection of all bids received after the specified deadline.
- This rule is absolute, with no provisions for exceptions based on circumstances.
- Its primary purpose is to ensure fairness, transparency, and prevent manipulation in the government procurement process.
- Adherence to submission timelines is a critical aspect of compliance for all bidders.
Conclusion
Rule 188 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, serves as a cornerstone for maintaining discipline and equity in public procurement. Its straightforward directive on late bids reinforces the principle that procedural compliance is as crucial as the substance of a bid. For all stakeholders, this rule is a clear reminder that punctuality is not merely a courtesy but a mandatory requirement for participation in government tenders.