(1)Rate contract :(a)A procuring entity may choose to engage in a rate contract procedure in accordance with the rules as may be made in this behalf, under this Act where it determines that, -(i)the need for the subject-matter of procurement is expected to arise on an indefinite or repeated basis during a given period of time;(ii)by virtue of the nature of the subject-matter of procurement, the need for it may arise during a given period of time.(b)A procuring entity may award a rate contract on the basis of open competitive bidding or by means of other procurement methods in accordance with the provisions of this Act.(c)Subject to the rules as may be made in this behalf, the procedure for rate contract shall include the following, namely:(i)the manner in which rate contract is to be entered into, including selection of the method of bidding to be followed; and(ii)the manner in which a procurement contract has to be entered into using rate contract procedure.(2)Government E-Market (GeM) :(a)Director General Supplies and Disposal (DGS&D) hosts an online Government e-Market Place (GeM) on pilot basis, for common use goods and services. The electronic and online procurement process on GeM is end-to-end from placement of supply order to payment to suppliers.(b)Government Procuring Entities (including State Government entities) at their option may view, compare and directly purchase online, the Products and services offered by various suppliers on GeM under such conditions, as may be prescribed by the Government.(c)The procedure and details of procurement through the GeM shall be such as may be prescribed by the Government.
