Boost for research institutes as Centre amends rules for buying scientific equipment

With an aim to boost scientific research and innovation in India, the Union Ministry of Finance has amended the special provisions under the general financial rules (GFR).

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Under the new provisions with respect to the procurement of scientific equipment and consumables for research purposes, the ministry said vice-chancellors, directors of scientific organisations and academic institutions are permitted to make non-Government e-Marketplace (GeM) procurement of scientific equipment and consumables.

The heads of the Department of Science and Technology, Defence Research and Development Organisation, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Indian Council of Medical Research and educational and medical research institutes can purchase scientific equipment and consumables for research purposes costing up to Rs 2 lakh.

The earlier limit was Rs 1 lakh only.

The order also increased the financial limit for purchase of goods by purchase committees of public research institutes from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.

Under the limited tender equity, the Centre has increased the financial limit for the procurement of goods from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1 crore. A limited tender in the context of the Department of Science & Technology (DST) refers to a tendering process where a select group of vendors are invited to participate, rather than an open competition. This is often used for smaller projects or when the government has pre-registered contractors or vendors.

The revised provisions also say that under advertised tender, heads of the institutions can invite advertisement for procurement of scientific goods above Rs 1 crore.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh called it a landmark step enabling ease of doing research.

“The GFR rules have been simplified for procurement of scientific equipment and consumables. This will reduce delays, also enhance autonomy and flexibility for research institutions—empowering them to innovate faster,” Singh said.