Pre-bid Selection of Consortium Partner for Development (Creation, Upgradation, Operation and Maintenance) of Middle Mile Network of BharatNet on Design Build Operate and Maintain (DBOM) Model in the State of Sikkim

Clarifications-I to Pre-Bid Queries for Tender Enquiry No. MM/BNO&M/BN-III/T-874/2026 Dated 11.03.2026

S. No. Section No. Clause No. Page No. Brief Description of the Clause Query / Clarification sought for Clarification/ Response of BSNL

1 I 1 DETAILED NOTICE INVITING TENDER We request BSNL to share the details of bifurcation of 24F and 48F incremental OFC (underground and Aerial) laid during Phase I & Phase II. Please refer to Amendment No.-2 Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

2 I 1 DETAILED NOTICE INVITING TENDER If the incremental OFC is aerial during Phase I & Phase II, kindly share details of RoW agency whose pole infrastructure is utilized. Please refer to Amendment No.-2 Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

3 I Note 2 4 Any bidder who has already been awarded three or more packages in BSNL’s ABP PIA tenders (T-791 & T-851) either as sole-bidder or as lead bidder, shall not be considered as eligible for this tender to participate in any capacity i.e. neither as a Sole Bidder nor as a Lead bidder and nor as a consortium partner To the best of our understanding, the clause shall be reframed as - Any bidder who has already been awarded three or more packages in BSNL’s ABP PIA tenders (T-791 & T-851) either as sole-bidder, lead bidder, or consortium partner shall not be considered as eligible for this tender to participate in any capacity i.e. neither as a Sole Bidder nor as a Lead bidder and nor as a consortium partner. Please confirm. As per Tender.

4 II 10.4 The offered product has to be type approved. For this purpose, the supplier/OEM shall submit a sample type for evaluation to BSNL QA. The sample would be evaluated for its ability to meet the technical specifications, manufacturability, reliability, testability, ease of installation, maintainability etc. Necessary documents to substantiate these attributes will have to be submitted at the time of application for approval by the supplier for obtaining type approval. In case goods offered have already been type approved/ validated by the Purchaser, documentary evidence to this effect shall be submitted by the bidder. In case the product is not type approved, the bidder can submit registered QF-103 (acceptance of registration by BSNL for TSEC application)/ Form-B (acceptance of registration by TEC for TAC application) at the time of bidding. However, the bidder has to get the TSEC/ TAC before supply of the product(s). We understand that the bidder is required to submit TSEC/QF-103 for all those SOR items for which TEC GR is available and specifically mentioned in the tender. We further understand that for few S-NOC line items such as Server, Storage, Firewall, Ethernet Switch etc. compliance of TEC/GR and Technical Specifications mentioned in the tender (if any) are sufficient and TSEC/QF-103 for these items are not required. Please confirm. As per Tender.

5 II 14.2 The Bid shall be typed or printed and all the pages numbered consecutively and shall be signed by the bidder or a person or persons duly authorized to bind the bidder to the contract. The letter of authorization shall be indicated by written power-of-attorney accompanying the bid. All pages of the original bid, except for un-amended printed literatures, shall be digitally signed by the person or persons signing the bid. In addition, the experience certificates have to be counter-signed by the bidder before uploading. The bids submitted shall be sealed properly. As the Bid to be submitted online on e-tender portal through different folders/ files, numbering on pages of the Bid consecutively is quite difficult. Hence, we understand consecutive page numbering is not mandatory. However, Bid should be submitted through a Table of Index with proper cross referencing of the documents uploaded with the Bid. Please confirm. Yes, please.

6 II 32.1 BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT reserves the right to disqualify the bidder for a suitable period who habitually fails to execute/complete the works in time. Further, the bidders whose works do not perform satisfactory in the field in accordance with the specifications may also be disqualified for a suitable period as decided by BSNL. As 'USOF' is now renamed as 'Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)', 'USOF' wherever mentioned in the tender document should be read as 'DBN'. Please confirm. This has already been applied in Tender No. T-851 & Tender No. T-857. Please refer Amendment No.-1

7 II 32.1 BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT reserves the right to disqualify the bidder for a suitable period who had on previous occasion(s) failed to execute/complete the works in time. Further, the bidders whose works do not perform satisfactory in the field in accordance with the specifications may also be disqualified for a suitable period as decided by BSNL. As per our knowledge few of entities are not able to perform its obligations in BSNL FMA/PMA tender. Please confirm whether such entities are eligible to participate in this tender or not? Please confirm YES/NO. As per Tender.

8 III 4.4 30 The performance security Bond will be discharged by BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT after completion of the contractor’s performance obligations including any warranty obligations under the contract. As per our understanding this PBG will be released immediately after submission of Performance Security for O&M. Please confirm. As per Tender.

9 III 5.2 Should any inspected or tested goods and/or works fail to conform to the specifications the purchaser may reject them and the supplier shall either replace the rejected goods and/or works or make all alterations necessary to meet Specification requirements free of cost to the purchaser. We understand that testing of goods means FAT and SAT and testing of work means Acceptance Testing. Please confirm if our understanding is correct. Else clarify. Clause is self explanatory

10 III 5.3 In case of goods, notwithstanding the pre-supply tests and inspections prescribed in clause 5.1 & 5.2 above, the equipment and accessories on receipt in the Purchaser's premises will also be tested during and after installation before "take over" and if any equipment or part thereof is found defective, the same shall be replaced free of all cost to the purchaser as laid down in clause 5.4 below. We understand that test to be conducted on equipment and accessories are part of the acceptance testing and will be carried out only once. Please confirm. Clause is self explanatory

11 III 7 7.3 The training session frequency, duration and batch sizes shall be mutually decided so as to meet the actual requirement. It is anticipated that 1 man week training for every 200 GPs per year for first two years and 1 man week per 400 GP per year for subsequent years, should be sufficient. The training material, including the videos of around 100 hour, shall be shared by PIA to BSNL and/or USOF and/or ultimate consignee, for further on line training sessions as per the requirement. Sikkim has total 199 Gram Panchayat in scope. We understand that PIA shall provide training for 1 man week training for every 199 GPs per year for first two years and 1 man week per 199 GPs per year for subsequent years. Please confirm Clause is self explanatory

12 III 7 7.4 The PIA has to arrange the training material, venue and all other arrangements except conveyance and stay arrangement. Please specify total number of participants so that required arrangements shall be done. Details shall be shared with the successful bidder after award.

13 III 5.5 When the performance tests called for have been successfully carried out, the inspector/ ultimate consignee will forthwith issue a commissioning certificate. The inspector/ ultimate consignee shall not delay the issue of any "commissioning certificate " contemplated by this clause on account of minor defects in the equipment which do not materially affect the commercial use thereof provided that the supplier shall undertake to make good the same in a time period not exceeding six months. “Commissioning certificate" shall be issued by the BSNL concerned unit within six weeks of successful completion of tests. We understand that the Performance testing will be carried out only once at the time of acceptance testing. Please confirm - YES/NO As per Tender.

14 III 6.3 The extension of delivery period against the purchase/work order, if any, should be granted subject to the condition that BSNL shall have the absolute right to revise the price(s) in compliance with clause-23 (Fall Clause) of Section-III and, also to levy LD/ penalty for the delayed work of execution. In case the delays which are beyond the control of PIA and reasons for delay are not attributable to PIA, such delays will not cause applicablity of LD Kindly confirm. As per Tender.

15 III 9 The PIA shall keep the required spares for meeting the SLA defined in Section IV-B. The PIA shall have an agreement with all the OEMs for supporting the supplied products for the life time of the contract (10 years). The OEM shall be bound to supply the spares to BSNL during the entire contract period as per the MAF on the same commercial terms and conditions. In case any equipment is not repairable due to non-availability of the spares, PIA shall replace the supplied products with equal or upgraded/ higher version during life time of contract (10 years) at free of cost" We understand that duly signed Manufacturers Authorizations Form (MAF) will suffice the purpose of having commitment for supporting the supplied product for the life time of contract (10 years). Please confirm. As there are so many SOR items and bidder is allowed to offer max 4 OEM against each SOR item, signing separate agreement in addition to MAF would be challenging task. As commitment of 10 years support, spare etc. is covered in MAF, submitting a separate agreement should not be mandatory. As per Tender.

16 III 9 The PIA shall keep the required spares for meeting the SLA defined in Section IV-B. The PIA shall have an agreement with all the OEMs for supporting the supplied products for the life time of the contract (10 years). The OEM shall be bound to supply the spares to BSNL during the entire contract period as per the MAF on the same commercial terms and conditions. In case any equipment is not repairable due to non-availability of the spares, PIA shall replace the supplied products with equal or upgraded/ higher version during life time of contract (10 years) at free of cost" Please confirm that spares and OEM support for the existing equipment will be provided by BSNL and in case of any unavailability for the existing equipments, the PIA will not be responsible. As per Tender.

17 III 11.1 (c) 34 Proof of completion of work (AT certificate). It may be noted that bidder is eligible for payment based on milestones and such milestones are at various stages even before 100% GP's in Block. BSNL shall issue AT certificate as per milestones mentioned in payment schedule and not ONLY AFTER 100% completion of Work. Please confirm - YES/NO Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

18 III 15.1 Performance of the services shall be made by the PIA in accordance with the time schedule specified in the purchase order/ work order. (a) In case the works are not completed in the stipulated period, as indicated in the Purchase Order/ work order, BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT reserves the right either to short-close/ cancel the purchase order/ work order and/ or recover penalty. (b) Before taking such action of short-closure/ cancellation of purchase order/ work order, BSNL/ IE shall serve, four (04) written notices of default, to the PIA at an interval of ten (10) days after each notice. (c) If the PIA does not remedy its failure within a period of 10 days after 4th notice, BSNL may take action as mentioned at para-(a) above. (d) The cancellation/ short-closing of the order shall be at the risk and cost of the PIA and BSNL reserves the right to give work order for the balance works at the risk and cost of the defaulting PIA within one year from the date of short closure of the Purchase Order/ Work Order OR date of scheduled completion of the respective project phase (i.e. construction or O&M), whichever is later. Please confirm that such clause shall have exclusion for those cases which are not attributable to PIA and beyond reasonable control of PIA. Clause is self explanatory

19 III 15.3(c.) 39 In case extension is being granted beyond 04 weeks then the PIA shall submit additional BG while seeking extension. For piecemeal works the amount of additional BG shall be 3 % of the value of balance quantity of works to be done for which extension in time period has been sought. The additional BG shall be valid for six months beyond extension of scheduled period sought and shall be discharged after the works has been completed and made over to the ultimate consignee within the last extended scheduled period on submission of inspection certificate from QA/IE and BSNL designated officer’s receipt without prejudice to the other remedies available to BSNL. Please note that the total time period for execution of work is 3 years and the same may get delayed due to various reasons including those which are beyond the control of PIA. Asking PBG for extension merely for 4 weeks is not as per industry practice in such large turnkey project and we request to kindly allow for extension of delivery period upto 20 weeks without applicablity of additional BG. As per Tender.

20 III 18.2 TERMINATION (INSLOVENCY & CONVENIENCE) It is understood that BSNL will pay/reimburse to the PIA the Expenses incurred for the execution of awarded work till the date of termination under this clause. Please Confirm. Clause is self explanatory

21 III 24.1 Any dispute arising out on account of terms & conditions of the tender/ bid document/ evaluation of bids/ issue of APO/AWO shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the competent court at the place from where the NIT/ tender has been issued i.e. New Delhi. The courts at New Delhi will have exclusive jurisdiction under this NIT and the contract that may be entered into pursuant to this NIT. We request for the arbitration clause to be added in the tender as there is reference made to the arbitration but the rights and the procedure for the applicability of arbitration is not provided. As per Tender.

22 III 31 Penalty for cutting/damaging the old cable. The penalty for cutting / damages of old cable to be levied on the PIA are exorbitantly high and should be as per industry practice that are being followed. As per Tender.

23 III 31 Penalty for cutting/damaging the old cable. We understand for the miscellaneous utility damages if penalty is levied by BSNL, then demand notes if raised by these agencies will be directly paid and settled by BSNL. Please confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

24 III 33.1 The PIA shall obtain at its own cost, all easements, permits and licenses, required to execute the contract including but not limited to following: 33.1.1 “Right of Way” easements and permits. 33.1.2 Railway, Highway, Forest and other Authorities crossing permits including bridge. 33.1.3 Canal/stream crossing permits. 33.1.4 ROW PIA shall pay applicable charges against the demand note/ estimate raised by the concerned authorities. PIA shall submit the copies of the proof of payment along with the invoices for reimbursement. Please confirm that for ROW reimbursement the PIA has to raise the debit note or a GST invoice. In case the GST invoice is to be raised, we understand that the GST will be paid extra as applicable. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

25 III 33.1 The PIA shall obtain at its own cost, all easements, permits and licenses, required to execute the contract including but not limited to following: 33.1.1 “Right of Way” easements and permits. 33.1.2 Railway, Highway, Forest and other Authorities crossing permits including bridge. 33.1.3 Canal/stream crossing permits. 33.1.4 ROW PIA shall pay applicable charges against the demand note/ estimate raised by the concerned authorities. PIA shall submit the copies of the proof of payment along with the invoices for reimbursement. We understand there will be a designated person provided by BSNL/USOF/DBN to sign the RoW Applications on behalf of BSNL/USOF at all the District levels. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

26 III 33.1 The PIA shall obtain at its own cost, all easements, permits and licenses, required to execute the contract including but not limited to following: 33.1.1 “Right of Way” easements and permits. 33.1.2 Railway, Highway, Forest and other Authorities crossing permits including bridge. 33.1.3 Canal/stream crossing permits. 33.1.4 ROW PIA shall pay applicable charges against the demand note/ estimate raised by the concerned authorities. PIA shall submit the copies of the proof of payment along with the invoices for reimbursement. There is lot parity amongst the demand notes raised by central agencies like NHAI, RAILWAYS, Canal & Irrigation department etc. and at many time they raised demand notes which are exorbitantly high value. We request that these high value demand notes be either paid directly by BSNL or in case PIA needs to pay these demand notes then prior approval be given to PIA confirming their reimbursement. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

27 IV-A 2.1(a) 57 The Bidder may be a single entity or a group of entities (the “Consortium”), coming together to implement the Project. However, any Bidder applying individually or as a member of a Consortium, as the case may be, cannot be member of another Bidder. The term Bidder used herein and, in this RFP, would apply to both a single entity and a Consortium. In case a company is bidding either as sole bidder or as a consortium member and such company is also an OEM for a particular SOR item, then such company can issue MAF to other bidders for their manufactured product(s). Please confirm if our understanding is correct. Yes please

28 IV-A 2.1(2) 58 Supporting Documents: Audited financial statements for the last three financial years. (2022-23, 2023-24 & 2024-25 or 2023-24, 2024-25 & 2025-26). Unaudited statement if certified by the Statutory Auditor for the year 2025-26 shall also be accepted. Certificate from the Statutory Auditor on net worth details for the financial year preceding the Bid Date (i.e. 2024-25). We understand that the Certificate from the Statutory Auditor on net worth and Turn-over details issued against previous DBOM Tender (BN Ph III tenders - Tender No. T-791/ T-851/T-857) can be submitted and accepted agains this tender also. Please confirm. Yes. However, Certificate should be for the financial year/s as required in the tender.

29 IV-A 2.1(4) 60 Technical Capability: We understand that the Financial & Technical experience capability will only be considered for the bidding entity. In case the bidding entity is a subsidiary of a parent company then the experience of the parent company will not be considered. Please confirm that our understanding is correct. No, please. **

30 IV-A 2.1(4) 60 Technical Capability: In case the bidding company is a subsidiary of a parent company controlling majority stake and the parent company is also an ISP/TSP having licence in Sikkim/WB LSA , then that bidding company will not be eligible for participation in this bid. Please confirm. Please refer to Annexure-VIII of the RFP

31 IV-A 2.1(4) 60 Technical Capability: The bidder should have Available Technical Capacity of having executed EPC OFC Network Construction project consisting of 24 or more core Under Ground OFC (to be calculated as per formula defined below) in the last 10 years within India, for at least- 4000 Kms. Here last 10 years means " 10 years as on bid submission date". Please confirm - YES/NO Yes please

32 IV-A 2.1(4)(ii) 61 The bidder should have satisfactorily completed in the last 10 years within India, the O&M of any OFC network of 24 or more Core Under Ground OFC [upto 40% of the O&M requirement can also be met through O&M of 24 or more core Aerial Fiber Cables (deployed in BharatNet by BBNL or state SPV)/ ADSS/ OPGW OFC for the number of ‘Year Kms’ (for the network for which O&M has been done for at least one year) at least equal to No. of Kms, as required for EPC Network Construction capability mentioned in para 4(i) above. Year Kms: If O&M of “X” Kms of OFC has been done for “N” years (N>=1), then ‘Year Kms’= ”X multiplied by N”. In case of a deployed network, warranty is provided for one year prior to initiation of O&M period then such One year of warranty shall also be considered for counting O&M years KM. Please confirm. Yes please

33 IV-A Note 1 63 The Sole bidder or members of the Consortium, should meet the Technical Capability requirements either on their own or jointly for the works awarded directly by the TSPs, Category-A ISPs, Central Government, State Government, Municipal Corporations for Smart City Projects, BharatNet SPVs, Government Institutions, PSUs for their own network and not sub-contracted works. However, it is clarified that the work experience issued by TSPs to the executing agencies for the USOF/DOT awarded projects shall be accepted. In case any entity has executed the work as a backend partner and NOT as a CONSORTIUM/JV member then such experience will not be counted for eligibility. Please confirm our understanding. Please refer to Note-7 of the Point-4 of Table-A under Clause-2.1(f) of Section IV-A.

34 IV A 2.1(5) 65 he Bidder or any of the Consortium members should not be blacklisted/debarred with Ministry of Communication or BSNL or debarring order issued by Department of Expenditure (DOE), Ministry of Finance (MOF) covering all central Ministries/ Departments as per provision of OM No.F.1/20/2018-PPD by Department of Expenditure (DoE), MoF dated on 2nd Nov 2021 as on Bid submission date. As most of the companies that would be particpating in this tender are major System Integrators executing IT/ITeS/Telecom/Security/Surveillence projects, we understand if a company that has been black listed in executing above mentioned projects will also be considered black listed or debarred from participating in this tender. Please confirm - Yes/No As per Tender.

35 IV A 2.1 Note 1(vi) 67 TSEC/ QF-103 or TAC/ Form-B obtained against the Tender No.- T-791 & T-851 shall be acceptable for this tender also. We understand this condition will be applicable for Rack (at Block & GP) only. Please list out other items from SOR (if any) for which this clause will be applicable. As per Tender.

36 IV A 2.2 68 The Bidder shall enclose with its Qualification Bid, to be submitted as per the format at Annexure-V, complete with its Annexes, the following: Certificate(s) from statutory auditors of the Bidder or its Associates specifying the Net Worth of the Bidder, as at the close of the preceding financial year, annual turnover of the Bidder for last 3 years as at the close of preceding financial year and also specifying that the methodology adopted for calculating such Net Worth conforms to the provisions of this Clause. For the purposes of this RFP, net worth (the “Net Worth”) shall mean the aggregate value of the paid-up share capital and all reserves created out of the profits and securities premium account, after deducting the aggregate value of the accumulated losses, deferred expenditure and miscellaneous expenditure not written off, as per the audited balance sheet, but does not include reserves created out of revaluation of assets, write-back of depreciation and amalgamation. There is some contradiction in certificate to be provided for Networth and Turnover. In some clause it is asked from Statutory auditors wherease in some clause it says the certificate is required from Chartered Accountant (CA). We understand that the Turnover and Networth certificates can be issued either by Statuatory Auditor or by Chartered Accountant. Please confirm. Yes please

37 IV-A 4.1.10 74 Charted Accountant (CA) Certificate on Net worth as on 31st Mar 2025 with CA’s Registration Number and Seal. There is some contradiction in certificate to be provided for Networth and Turnover. In some clause it is asked from Statutory auditors wherease in some clause it says the certificate is required from Chartered Accountant (CA). We understand that the Turnover and Networth certificates can be issued either by Statuatory Auditor or by Chartered Accountant. Please confirm. Yes please

38 IV-A 2.11 Conditions for Field Trial of the Class I/ Class II local suppliers for routers; (i) The offered Make-Model for Block Router and GP Routers can be from same OEM or different OEM. However, the same or its earlier version should have been supplied for minimum 30% of required quantities for the package, subject to maximum 2000. (ii) In case of Class-I & Class-II local suppliers (as per prevalent DPIIT, Gol guidelines mentioned in Clause-2.10 of Section-IV-A), the offered Make-Model for Block Router and GP Routers or its earlier version should have been supplied for minimum 10% of required quantities for the package subject to maximum 600. (iii) In case, a bidder quotes a router model (OEM-1) of a Class I/ II local supplier (as defined in the DPIIT guidelines mentioned in Para-2.10.(i) above), which does not meet the criteria as defined in para 2.11(ii) above, it must also quote another model (OEM-2) of some other OEM meeting the above required criteria Kindly clarify that as per the given clause 2.11 (i), (II), (iii) - If OEM has supplied quantities mentioned under respective clause, in that case OEM is not required to perform "Field Trial" Please confirm. Clause is self explanatory

39 IV-A 2.15 The Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) guidelines require that every telecom equipment must undergo mandatory testing and certification prior to sale, import of use in India. The supplied products under this project shall meet the extant guidelines on MTCTE issued by TEC from time to time for various telecom equipment. We understand that all proposed telecom equipment OEMs need to submit either MTCTE registration certificate or undertaking to get the MTCTE registration certificate before supply. Please confirm. Clause is self explanatory

40 IV-A 2.16 2.16 The instructions regarding supply of `Trusted products' as mandated by DoT vide File no-20-271/2010 AS-I (Vol-III) dated 10.3.2021, along with its amendments, issued from time to time, shall have to be complied for this tender. The bidder/ OEM shall not be in the notified list of designated sources, from whom no procurement can be done, as per above letter. Routers and RFMS, to be supplied under this tender, should comply "Trusted Products" before delivery. In case, the make/ model is not approved as "Trusted Product", then, the bidder/ OEM shall obtain the approval for the tendered products from the designated office. Alternatively, the bidders can provide all documents/ information to BSNL for application on trusted portal, in their technical bid. The format for submission of information (to be submitted with technical bid) is enclosed at Annexure-XIV. As per the clause no 2.16 specified that Router and RFMS to be supplied under this tender should comply with "Trusted Prduct", we assume that no other products are required to comply with "trusted product" KIndly clarify Clause is self explanatory

41 IV-B 1.1 & 1.2 77 1.1. Phase I – Network Implementation 1.2. Phase II – Network Implementation We request BSNL to share GP and block network availability reports of last 6 months to evaluate the health of the existing network and further calculate the number of resources for HOTO. The details shall be shared with the Successful bidder.

42 IV-B 2.2 77 Upgradation: To upgrade the existing network infrastructure from linear to ring topology across GPs and Block locations, with upto 50% on linear topology. We understand that PIA is expected to upgrade existing GPs i.e., 36 GPs in ring topology. However, depending on the physical survey, PIA can connect maximum 50% of existing GPs only i.e., 18 out of 36 GPs on linear topology. Please re-confirm. Please Refer to the Amendment No.- 6.

43 IV-B 2.5 2.5 Network and Service Provisioning: To enable retail, enterprise and wholesale services as per the requirement of BSNL across the Contract Period. We understand that PIA's team based out of Network Operations Center (NOC) shall only be responsible for Network and Service Provisioning from NMS. Arrangement of required hardware on field which may or may not be installed on the newly constructed / upgraded Block or GP routers shall be arranged by BSNL. We also understand that required connectivity's on field shall also be done by BSNL. Please confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

44 IV-B 3.2.1 79 - 80 3.2.1 Handover/ Takeover of the Existing BharatNet Phase-I & Phase-II Networks: (a) The SIA of State Government shall hand over the Existing Network to BSNL, within a maximum time period as per below table (Table 1 in clause 6) from the agreement signed date, in “good condition” (optical power is in the range -8 dBm to -25 dBm). The handover of the BharatNet Phase-II network shall be Block wise where at least 50% GPs are having optical power as specified above. At field level, the O& M agencies of SIA and BSNL’s PIA shall co-ordinate with each other for physical takeover of the BharatNet Phase-II network. The Block (OLT) to GP (ONT) connectivity is done using 1 (one) fiber only. During upgradation from GPON to IP / MPLS technology, PIA shall require minimum 2 (two) fibers in a healthy condition to connect Block router to GP router. Moreover, PIA shall need spare fibers from existing network for routine O&M activities. We request BSNL to revise the clause as follows: (a) The SIA of State Government shall hand over the Existing Network to BSNL, within a maximum time period as per below table (Table 1 in clause 6) from the agreement signed date, in “good condition” where OTDR reports depicts the entire length of OFC with standard losses of 0.22 dB / KM for 1550 nm and 0.3 dB / KM for 1310 nm for all fibers. Further, end-to-end connectivity shall be through by testing it with laser source and power meter readings shall also be taken for all the fibers. The PIA shall only takeover the OFC routes where 100% fibers are through end-to-end. (optical power is in the range -8 dBm to -25 dBm). The handover of the BharatNet Phase-II network shall be Block wise where at least 50% GPs are having optical power as specified above. At field level, the O& M agencies of SIA and BSNL’s PIA shall co-ordinate with each other for physical takeover of the BharatNet Phase-II network. As per Tender.

45 IV-B 1.1 b) 77 b) Under this implementation model, the network infrastructure was deployed by leveraging BSNL’s existing Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) from Block to Fibre Point of Interconnect (FPOI) and laying incremental underground OFC from FPOI to GP location. We understand that the existing OFC network infrastructure of BSNL was used from block to FPOI. We understand that existing OFC infrastructure will be handed over to the bidder in as-is where-is conditions and the bidder is expected to rectify or replace the existing OFC as per site conditions and will be paid seperatly on mutually agreed prices over and above the prices quoted by the bidder in this bid. Please confirm. As per Tender.

46 IV B 3.2.1 79 Handover/ Takeover of the Existing BharatNet Phase-I & Phase-II Networks The SIA of State Government shall hand over the Existing Network to BSNL, within a maximum time period as per below table (Table 1 in clause 6) from the agreement signed date, in “good condition” (optical power is in the range -8 dBm to -25 dBm). The handover of the BharatNet Phase-II network shall be Block wise where at least 50% GPs are having optical power as specified above. At field level, the O& M agencies of SIA and BSNL’s PIA shall co-ordinate with each other for physical takeover of the BhatatNet Phase-II network. We understand thad during the HOTO of Bharat Net Phase I and Phase II network, the following will be provided by BSNL - Working conditions of GP OTDR and LSPM reports ABD Manhole/Handhole details with depth Physical length of OFC FPOI for BSNL and BBNL OFC Copy of ROW approvals Date of installation of equipments along with battery Spare availability for installed equipments Last date for replacement of battery Availability of AMC for installed equipments As per Tender.

47 IV B 3.2.1 79 Handover/ Takeover of the Existing BharatNet Phase-I & Phase-II Networks The SIA of State Government shall hand over the Existing Network to BSNL, within a maximum time period as per below table (Table 1 in clause 6) from the agreement signed date, in “good condition” (optical power is in the range -8 dBm to -25 dBm). The handover of the BharatNet Phase-II network shall be Block wise where at least 50% GPs are having optical power as specified above. At field level, the O& M agencies of SIA and BSNL’s PIA shall co-ordinate with each other for physical takeover of the BhatatNet Phase-II network. In case the existing cable depth is not matching with RID/ABD then PIA shall not bear any penalty. As per Tender.

48 IV B 3.2.1 79 Handover/ Takeover of the Existing BharatNet Phase-I & Phase-II Networks The SIA of State Government shall hand over the Existing Network to BSNL, within a maximum time period as per below table (Table 1 in clause 6) from the agreement signed date, in “good condition” (optical power is in the range -8 dBm to -25 dBm). The handover of the BharatNet Phase-II network shall be Block wise where at least 50% GPs are having optical power as specified above. At field level, the O& M agencies of SIA and BSNL’s PIA shall co-ordinate with each other for physical takeover of the BhatatNet Phase-II network. We understand that the spares are already being managed by the existing agencies and there are agreements in place with the OEM for providing the replacements of faulty hardware. PIA shall not be responsible for any delays caused due to any stakeholders involved in spare management. Please confirm As per Tender.

49 IV-B 3.2.1 (b) 80 (b) The BSNL PIA shall be responsible for O&M of the taken over OFC network as well as FLM of taken over GPON equipment including logistics, replacement of faulty GPON/ SPV equipment, spares management till MPLS routers are commissioned in the Block/GP. We request BSNL to share the existing contractual arrangements for spares with GPON OEM to understand the spare requirements and calculate the commercials accordingly. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

50 IV-B 3.2.1(c) 80 Considering the experience of HOTO activities of the Central Amended BharatNet project, we request BSNL to add a "Resource mobilization" milestone of two weeks. This will help the PIA to mobilize its team and have initial introduction, discussion on template and HOTO schedule and other important aspects of the HOTO with BSNL and its appointed FMA / PMA and other agencies. Please refer to Amendment No.-6.

51 IV-B 3.2.1(c) 80 The timelines mentioned in the Table X.1 is 9 months for "Existing network handover completion of 100% blocks along with their GPs Locations", however, Note 3 below Table X.1 says after six (6) months from appointed date, the entire network shall be deemed to be madeover to the PIA on as is where is basis. Request you to review and modify note 3 accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.-6.

52 Note 3 80 However, after six (6) months from appointed date, the entire network shall be deemed to be madeover to the PIA on as is where is basis. The timelines mentioned in the Table X.1 is 9 months for "Existing network handover completion of 100% blocks along with their GPs Locations", however, Note 3 below Table X.1 says after six (6) months from appointed date, the entire network shall be deemed to be madeover to the PIA on as is where is basis. Request you to review and modify note 3 accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.-6.

53 IV-B 3.2.1 (Table X.1) 80 Table X.1 Timelines to handover existing network Milestone Sr no. 4: Shift of BHQ/Taluka premises from existing State Govt. location to suitable BSNL Exchange(s)/ identified location(s) We request BSNL to provide the names of blocks where the shifting may be required. This shall help us in proper resource planning and calculate the commercials. The details shall be shared with the Successful bidder.

54 IV-B 3.2.1 (c)(4) 80 Shift of BHQ/Taluka premises from existing State Govt. location to suitable BSNL Exchange(s)/ identified location(s) with associated Optical Fiber Cable and equipment. Need clarification regarding the shifting of Block equipment to the State Government location. If the associated equipment is to be borne by the bidder, will BSNL provide additional charges for this activity? Kindly confirm. Please also confirm the following - - tentative number of locations to be shifted, - the approximate distance between the old and new locations Please refer to Amendment No.-6. Details about approx distance from old to new location shall be shared with successful Bidders as per joint survey.

55 IV-B 3.2.1 (c)(4) 80 Shift of BHQ/Taluka premises from existing State Govt. location to suitable BSNL Exchange(s)/ identified location(s) with associated Optical Fiber Cable and equipment. Please also confirm the following - - tentative number of locations to be shifted, - the approximate distance between the old and new locations Please refer to Amendment No.-6. Details about approx distance from old to new location shall be shared with successful Bidders as per joint survey.

56 IV B 3.2.5(f) 82 The OFC network corresponding to the GPs whose optical power is OK ( -25 dB or better) and made over to BSNL by the SIA of State Government shall be transferred to the BSNL PIA for O&M on as is where basis. The complete L-14 diagram mentioning the routes shall be signed by the O&M agencies of State Government, BSNL/ PIA and SIA. Details of temporary restoration etc. shall also be marked. BSNL /PIA, if required, can mention its observations in the HOTO memo. We understand that BSNL will provide PIA with L-14 diagram containing details of the network created along with the following - Working conditions of GP OTDR and LSPM reports ABD Manhole/Handhole details with depth Physical length of OFC FPOI for BSNL and BBNL OFC Copy of ROW approvals Date of installation of equipments along with battery Spare availability for installed equipments Last date for replacement of battery Availability of AMC for installed equipments As per Tender.

57 IV B 3.4 a 83 BSNL shall provide the GIS details for site and route data of the Existing Network to the PIA on as is where is basis. In case GIS details are not available, PIA will not be responsible for updation of existing network on GIS platform of BSNL. Please confirm. As per Tender.

58 IV B 3.4 a 83 BSNL shall provide the GIS details for site and route data of the Existing Network to the PIA on as is where is basis. We assume that the GIS and the Physical Route will be exactly same for all active passive components and will be containing proper detailed information for the existing network. However, if we encounter error/difference pertaining to GIS details and physical route than PIA will not be responsible for any such updation in GIS. Please confirm. As per Tender.

59 IV B 3.4 (c.) 84 PIA shall conduct an actual Geographic Information System (GIS)-based survey for the area under scope of work. Any delay encountered by PIA due to non availability of GIS details provided by BSNL will not be part of PIA and no penalty or LD will be applicable for the same on PIA. Please confirm. As per Tender.

60 IV B 3.4 (h) 84 The PIA shall create/update the relevant engineering drawings/design in case of future upgradation, ensure updation of GIS platform and other relevant systems as required by BSNL. Kindly elaborate on the specific upgradation requirements pertaining to updation of GIS paltform and other relevant systems that are required by BSNL. As per Tender.

61 IV B 3.5(c) 84 The PIA can also plan child rings (as per figure in clause 3.1.1 above) in case the creation of GP ring from Block is not feasible due to distance from block or any other reason. The PIA shall conduct a detailed survey and prepare the report in consultation with IE for each case and submit it to BSNL for approval of such Child Rings. We understand that a child ring originates from one GP and terminates either at the same GP or at another GP within the main ring. Kindly confirm if this understanding is correct. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

62 IV B 3.5(d) 84 Depending on the non-feasibility of the ring architecture deployment, PIA may recommend to BSNL to deploy suitable network architecture (linear) other than ring architecture in a GP/ GPs. If ring architecture is not techno-commercially feasible, BSNL shall approve the same based on the recommendation of the PIA and IE on case-to-case basis. In cases where the main ring or child ring is not feasible due to terrain, ROW issues, or other constraints, we understand that a GP may need to be provisioned in a spur configuration. Should the spur ring be extended from an existing GP within the main or child ring? or is it permissible for the spur ring to be extended directly from the Block-level node. Kindly confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

63 IV-B 3.5 (b) & (c) 84 Network Design b) The PIA shall design a redundant and robust OFC network infrastructure connecting all GPs, based on ring architecture/ topology. The number of GPs in a GP ring (as per figure in clause 3.1.1 above) shall normally be eight (8) and maximum up to ten (10). In case, more than 10 (ten) GPs are necessitated to be connected in a ring as per survey, the same shall be implemented after justification and recommendation by the I.E. and approval by BSNL. c) The PIA can also plan child rings (as per figure in clause 3.1.1 above) in case the creation of GP ring from Block is not feasible due to distance from block or any other reason. The PIA shall conduct a detailed survey and prepare the report in consultation with IE for each case and submit it to BSNL for approval of such Child Rings. Please specify the maximum number of GPs that can be planned in one child ring. We also understand that a child ring can originate and terminate on same GP or different GP. Please confirm Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

64 IV-B 3.5 (e) 85 e) Alternate Technology Implementation i. Wherever, the U/G or ADSS OFC laying is not possible, the PIA shall submit a note to the IE detailing the constraints. The Independent Engineer (IE) shall examine the same and if the same is found to be correct, the IE shall recommend in speaking justification to BSNL. BSNL BharatNet BA Head, based on the recommendation of the IE shall forward the same to BSNL HQ who will approve the same to be implemented through Alternate Technology. ii. However, the deployment on Alternate Technologies shall be permitted for not more than 2% GPs in the Circles of Haryana, for not more than 4% GPs in the Circles of Rajasthan. Similarly, the deployment on Alternate Technologies shall not be permitted for more than 25% GPs in the circles of NE1. The clause mentions permissible limit of using Alternate Technology for Haryana, Rajasthan and NE1 states. Please share the permissible limit of using Alternate Technologies for Sikkim state. Please refer to Amendment No.-6.

65 IV-B 3.5(e)(ii) 85 Alternate Technology Implementation ii. However, the deployment on Alternate Technologies shall be permitted for not more than 2% GPs in the Circles of Haryana, for not more than 4% GPs in the Circles of Rajasthan. Similarly, the deployment on Alternate Technologies shall not be permitted for more than 25% GPs in the circles of NE1. This clause seems to be copied from Tender No. T-851. Please specify the % of GPs that shall be permitted to be deployed on alternate technologies for Sikkim state/circle. Please refer to Amendment No.-6.

66 IV B 3.5(e)(ii) 85 However, the deployment on Alternate Technologies shall be permitted for not more than 2% GPs in the Circles of Haryana, for not more than 4% GPs in the Circles of Rajasthan. Similarly, the deployment on Alternate Technologies shall not be permitted for more than 25% GPs in the circles of NE1. In case of exigencies, if the PIA justifies connectivity of GPs on Alternate Technology beyond the above-mentioned state wise limits, then with the recommendation of IE, Page 90 of 389 PIA can submit such cases to BSNL. BSNL in consultation with USOF reserves the right to approve the use of Alternate Technology for connecting GPs beyond the mentioned limits. In scenarios where ring or spur connectivity is not feasible due to field constraints, we understand that alternate technologies may be used to connect the GPs. (1) Should the alternate technology be used only for GP-to-GP connectivity within the ring/child ring structure, or is it also permissible to use it for spur connections to individual GPs? Kindly confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

67 IV-B 3.5(e)(vi) 85 Alternate Technology Implementation vi. The FLM of such alternate technology equipment shall also be in the scope of the PIA. The PIA shall be paid @ Rs. 1,000 per month/ link for FLM for first 5 years and thereafter @ 1300 per month per link for next 5 years. In case of Hilly Circle (NE1), these rates shall be Rs. 1,500 per month/ link for FLM for first 5 years and thereafter @ 1800 per month per link for next 5 years. The Schedule of FLM shall be issued by BSNL in consultation with the PIA and the alternative technology implementing agency. Adequate spares, software updates and upgrades, L2/L3 support and Training as required to meet SLA shall be provided free of cost by the Alternate Technology provider. The AMC charges against the alternate technology equipment shall be paid by BSNL as these are to be purchased under separate tender floated by BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT. This clause seems to be copied from Tender No. T-851. Please confirm the rates for Sikkim state. We also understand that adequate spares, software upgrades and AMC shall be managed by BSNL directly with the alternate technology provider. Please confirm Please refer to Amendment No.-6.

68 IV B 3.5(e)(v) 85 For other cases, a separate tender shall be floated by BSNL on behalf of DBN, DoT for implementation of alternate technology in such GPs. The PIA shall be bound to facilitate/ coordinate such implementation through agency selected by BSNL on behalf of DBN, DoT and integration of the same with State NOC. The PIA shall also allow installation of EMS and/or any equipment in State NOC for integration with State NOC/ Central NOC. No space and Infra charges shall be payable to the PIA for the same. As this is a separate activity to be carried out by BSNL and does not fall under the scope of work of PIA for this project, any additional requirement for space and infra for integration of deployment of alternate technology by BSNL should be provided to PIA for optimization and designing of S-NOC. Clause is self explanatory

69 IV-B 3.5.(v) 85 v. For other cases, a separate tender shall be floated by BSNL on behalf of DBN, DoT for implementation of alternate technology in such GPs. The PIA shall be bound to facilitate/ coordinate such implementation through agency selected by BSNL on behalf of DBN, DoT and integration of the same with State NOC. The PIA shall also allow installation of EMS and/or any equipment in State NOC for integration with State NOC/ Central NOC. No space and Infra charges shall be payable to the PIA for the same. For installation of EMS and / or any additional equipment, we understand that PIA shall provide only physical space and power infrastructure. The implementation partner, appointed by BSNL, shall provide rack, servers or any other hardware required for such installation. Please confirm. Clause is self explanatory

70 IV-B 3.5.(vi) 85 vi. The FLM of such alternate technology equipment shall also be in the scope of the PIA. The PIA shall be paid @ Rs. 1,000 per month/ link for FLM for first 5 years and thereafter @ 1300 per month per link for next 5 years. In case of Hilly Circle (NE1), these rates shall be Rs. 1,500 per month/ link for FLM for first 5 years and thereafter @ 1800 per month per link for next 5 years. We request BSNL to provide the FLM rates for Sikkim. Please refer to Amendment No.-6.

71 IV B 3.5(f)(iv) 86 From Day-1, the network shall support and enable retail, enterprise, and wholesale services as per the capabilities of the router , such as but not limited to the following: All type of data and voice services, wireless back-haul traffic for 2G, 3G,4G and 5Gservices, FTTx, layer2 VPN, layer3 VPN, point 2 Multipoint VPN and VPLS, IPTV and multicast VPN, Cable TV transmission services along with other bandwidth leasing services supported any to any, one to many, many to many kind of services. The network created should have capability to establish end to end integration as per requirement up to State-Wide Area Network (SWAN) and National Knowledge Network (NKN). In this regard, BSNL shall facilitate in provisioning of all necessary details and access for a smooth integration. Request you to kindly elaborate on the requirement that is desired from PIA to ensure integration with SWAN and NKN for the Network to be created. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

72 IV B 3.6(b) 87 The PIA shall submit Block wise site survey reports to the Independent Engineer (IE) for certifying that the same is in line with the guidelines mentioned in this RFP. Based on such certification by IE, BSNL BharatNet BA Head in the circle shall approve the same. Format of Survey report is attached at Annexure-X. Please provide detailed Survey and Network Design guidelines that are required to be followed for this Project. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

73 IV-B 3.6 a(iii) 87 iii. In case of uncovered GPs (~47,000), The bidder shall have an option to utilize the existing optical fibre cable of any TSP/ISP/IP-1 license holders for the construction of the uncovered GPs with the following conditions: We request BSNL to provide the detail of uncovered GPs for Sikkim. Details shall be shared with the successful bidder after award.

74 IV B 3.6(d) 88 The Right of Way (RoW) for the project shall be granted as per the existing agreement with the State Government and facilitated by BSNL through introduction letters for creation and upgradation of new and existing network respectively during the construction period. We understand for the Agencies that do not fall under the purview of State Govt. RoW is to be obtained by PIA and RoW charges will be reimbursed by BSNL. Please confirm. As per Tender.

75 IV B 3.6(e) 88 During the Operation & Maintenance, the PIA shall also be facilitated RoW by BSNL, only for replacement and repair of existing fiber deployed to maintain the new and existing network. We understand that BSNL shall facilitate ROW charges along with reinstatement charges on actual basis for existing network As per Tender.

76 IV-B 3.8 State- Network Operations Centre (S-NOC) Implementation Please provide the list of applications i.e., EMS, NMS, GIS, ERP etc., currently live for Sikkim states/circle. Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

77 IV B 3.8(f) 90 PIA shall submit details such as APIs', protocols, version, attributes etc. to BSNL. Once, the information has been shared at detailed level, both PIA and BSNL shall complete integration of NOC within 90 days from agreement signed date. We request to do the minor modification in the clause - PIA shall submit details such as APIs', protocols, version, attributes etc. to BSNL. Once, the information has been shared at detailed level, both PIA and BSNL shall complete integration of NOC within 90 days from agreement signed date. NOC handover date. Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

78 IV B 3.8(h) 90 State NOC Space and Infra Charges: The PIA shall take on lease space for State NOC (Approximately 2500 Sq. ft. for Category-1 (1A & 1B) and Approximately 2000 Sq. ft. for Category 2) in BSNL exchange or any other building of BSNL. The PIA shall pay rental as decided by FRAC constituted by BSNL Circle CGM. The PIA shall be responsible for interior and other infra requirement. It shall install a sub-meter for sharing the Electricity charges with BSNL or it may take a separate electricity connection, install E/A and/ or Solar System. The charges for the same shall be payable by PIA to BSNL as decided by the FRAC. The PIA shall raise the same for reimbursement in the quarterly invoices against OPEX. The Electricity Charges shall be reimbursed to PIA on actual basis on submission of Actual Bills on monthly basis. As PIA need to be pay the same on monthly basis and reiumbursement of the same on quarterly basis is not logical. Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

79 IV-B 3.8(h) 90 State NOC Space and Infra Charges: We understand that S-NOC will be constructed in Gangtok. Please confirm Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

80 IV-B 3.8(i) 90 The State NOC created under this project shall be integrated with BharatNet Delhi & Bangalore NOC. Please confirm the timelines required for synchronization of to be constructed S-NOC data with BharatNet Delhi & Bangalore NOC of BSNL. Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

81 IV-B 3.8(i) 90 The State NOC created under this project shall be integrated with BharatNet Delhi & Bangalore NOC. Please share the make / model / application details of the BharatNet Delhi & Bangalore NOC so that the bidder can evaluate the compatibility & integration of the proposed SNOC EMS / NMS with the BharatNet Delhi & Bangalore NOC. Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

82 IV-B 3.8.(l) 90 Data Communication Network (DCN) Charges- The DCN links for connectivity of Block routers to State NOC and State NOC to Central NOC shall be provided by BSNL for which PIA shall not be charged. The charges of DCN links shall be raised by BSNL directly to DBN. As per this clause we understand that BSNL will provide DCN connectivity between SNOC to Block and DBN will directly make payment to BSNL for DCN link. PIA will not be making payment for DCN links to BSNL. Kindly clarify As per Tender.

83 IV B 3.9(i) 91 Provisioning Mini OLTs : BSNL on behalf of DBN, DoT is procuring mini OLTs through a separate tender to be installed at the GP. The PIA is required to make provision for housing the same in the rack (cabinet) being provided by it as per technical specifications. Normally, the size of the Mini OLT is 1 RU. The PIA shall allow the power to the OLT to be tapped from the Power System being procured at the GP location. The PIA shall also allow the installation/testing/FLM of OLT to be carried out by the OLT OEM/vendor as and when required. The PIA will also facilitate testing by the BNUs, whenever required, to ensure desired connectivity/ uptime to all the FTTH customers of the housed OLT. The PIA shall configure and integrate the Mini OLTs provided by BSNL or BNUs with the MPLS network for last mile connectivity We understand that the OLT is to be installed by the OLT OEM in the existing rack provided by the PIA. Therefore, installation, commissioning and NOC visibility fall under the scope of the OLT OEM. Once the last mile connectivity from the OLT is established, the necessary configurations are to be carried out by the PIA only for connection to be established for Last Mile Connectivity. Please confirm. As per Tender.

84 IV B 3.10(i) 92 The PIA shall use 6F Overhead OFC as per TEC GR as mentioned in the table of TEC GRs in Annexure-A of section- IV-C. Last Mile connectivity shall be implemented with 6F Aerial Drop Cable. However, the TEC GR mentioned for 12F/ 24F is applicable for 6F cable also. In FTTX connectivity, the use of optical splitters is required. Therefore, we request confirmation on the type of splitter to be used such as 1:8, 1:16, or 1:32 as per the project design and capacity requirements. Kindly confirm. As per network design and site requirement

85 IV C 3.10(i) 92 The PIA shall use 6F Overhead OFC as per TEC GR as mentioned in the table of TEC GRs in Annexure-A of section- IV-C. Last Mile connectivity shall be implemented with 6F Aerial Drop Cable. However, the TEC GR mentioned for 12F/ 24F is applicable for 6F cable also. In FTTX connectivity, the use of optical splitters is required. Therefore, we request confirmation on the type of splitter to be used such as 1:8, 1:16, or 1:32 as per the project design and capacity requirements. Kindly confirm As per network design and site requirement

86 IV B 4 (iv) 96 Measurement of the work of cable for calculation of laying /trenching will be taken equal to the length of the pipe/ duct (as measured in the RODO meter) through which the cable has been pulled and not the total length of the cable pulled through pipe/duct. We understand Cable consumption will be certified as per OTDR readings only. Clause is self explanatory

87 IV B 4 (iv) 96 Measurement of the work of cable for calculation of laying /trenching will be taken equal to the length of the pipe/ duct (as measured in the RODO meter) through which the cable has been pulled and not the total length of the cable pulled through pipe/duct. There is undulation of OFC when it is laid in HDPE Pipes and the RODO Meter length will not give the exact consupmtion of OFC. Measuement of OFC should be as per the OTDR Readings. Please confirm. Clause is self explanatory

88 IV B 5 Rates payable in case of laying at less depth Please provide detailed process that would be required to be followed for obtaining depth deviation approvals. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

89 IV B 6 b) (i) 99 The acceptance testing (A/T) of the New Network and upgradation of Existing Network shall be carried out as per the Acceptance Testing Schedule issued by QA and Inspection Circle of BSNL which can be accessed on line from the website of QA and Inspection Circle of BSNL. As validated by the IE, such tests along with Acceptance Testing Template shall be designed in conformance with the provisions set forth under Section- IV-C: (Special Technical Conditions), Specifications and Standards and Good Industry Practice. We understand that the Acceptance Testing Schedule will be modified as per the creation of New Network and upgradation of Existing Network and will be fianlised in consultaion with PIA, IE and BSNL. Please confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

90 IV B 6 b) (iii) 99 Further, no later than 10 (ten) days prior to the actual date of tests, the PIA shall furnish detailed inventory and particulars of all works and equipment forming part of the Project to the IE and BSNL. We understand that all the relevant formats containing details of Inventory and particulars of all works and equipments will be finalised amongst PIA, IE and BSNL prior to placement of PO. Please confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

91 IV B 6 b) (iv) 99 In the event of the PIA and the IE failing to mutually agree on the dates for conducting the tests, the PIA shall fix the dates by not less than 10 (ten) working days’ notice to the IE, and in the event the IE delays the tests hereunder, BSNL shall ensure that tests are completed in time either by the IE or any substitute thereof. Looking at the magnitude of the work to be executed and stringent timelines to be followed we request for availablity of the IE to be ensured in 2-3 days once the notice for conducting of Acceoptance Testing is given by PIA. Please confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

92 IV B 6 b) (xi) 100 The PIA shall facilitate the IE in conducting the tests as per approved Acceptance Testing Template and/or as per directions of the IE. All reasonable facilities and assistance like testing instruments and other test devices including access to drawings and other details shall be furnished, by the PIA to the IE and BSNL. We undertand that AT can be carried out by providing SLD of the route created and ABD is required to be submitted at the time of submission of Invoices by PIA. Please confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

93 IV B 11.2.1 Note 1 107 Successful bidder shall follow BSNL in house Trouble Ticket Module for capturing the fault status which will in turn be used for SLA calculation through the SLA module. Please provide details of the In House Trouble Ticket Module that is available with BSNL. Details shall be shared with the successful bidder after award.

94 IV B 11.2.1 Note 2 108 SLAs to be calculated Block wise and penalties to be imposed on monthly basis on O&M charges of the block network . We request for penalties to be calculated on quarterly as O&M payment is on quarterly basis. As per Tender.

95 IV B 11.2.1 Note 5 108 Wherever Electricity Connection is not available in the GP – Exclusion of down time after discharge of battery set shall be allowed in SLA provided the battery is in healthy condition and proper backup and charging system is functional. Wherever electric connection is available in GP but not in the building- The PIA can shift the equipment. If no suitable building is available, BSNL has to coordinate with State Authorities for getting Electricity connection. Till it is provided, down time during power unavailability to be excluded from SLA. We understand that for the shifting of equipment from exisiting GP to new GP locations, PIA will be paid separately. Please confirm. As per Tender.

96 IV B 11.2.1 Note 8 108 No exclusion except above or force majeure cases. We request to kindly consider few more exclusions like road widening, cable cut by 3rd party without intimation, any action taken by centre / state agencies on account of other infra projects like Jal jeevan mission, underground EB lines, gas pipelines, snow bound area, not accessible area due to local condidtions etc. as such events are beyond the control of PIA. As per Tender.

97 IV B 11.2.3 110 SLAs for Network Availability at Block level for Ring topology We understand that SLAs for existing network shall only be start after complete HOTO by PIA and commencement of O&M after successful completion of work. Please confirm Yes/No. As per Tender.

98 IV B 11.2.4 110 SLAs for Network Availability at GP on Ring: We understand that SLAs for existing network shall only be start after complete HOTO by PIA and commencement of O&M after successful completion of work. Please confirm Yes/No. As per Tender.

99 IV B 12.1 c) 113 Initial Mobilization advance upto 10% of the capex value shall be adjusted in 8 (eight) equal quarterly instalments. The first instalment shall be adjusted in the 9th month (from the month of disbursement of the advance) from the due payments, second instalment in the 12th month, 3rd instalment in the 15th month and so on. The PIA can avail, a further Mobilization Advance of up to 5% (five percent) of the capex value of the bid project cost, on the Completion of Project Milestones II. The second mobilization advance shall be adjusted in 6 (six) equal quarterly instalments starting from 6th month from the date of disbursal of the advance................. We recommend to allow Contractor to submit multiple BGs/Insurance Bond totalling the required amount of 110% of the Mobilization Advance. Yes please

100 IV B 12.1 c) 113 Initial Mobilization advance upto 10% of the capex value shall be adjusted in 8 (eight) equal quarterly instalments. The first instalment shall be adjusted in the 9th month (from the month of disbursement of the advance) from the due payments, second instalment in the 12th month, 3rd instalment in the 15th month and so on. The PIA can avail, a further Mobilization Advance of up to 5% (five percent) of the capex value of the bid project cost, on the Completion of Project Milestones II. The second mobilization advance shall be adjusted in 6 (six) equal quarterly instalments starting from 6th month from the date of disbursal of the advance................. In case the contractor submit the multiple BG/Insurance Bonds totalling the required amount of 110% of the Mobilization Advance, we understand that- on adjustment of advance amount from the due payments, BSNL will returnd the BG/Insurance equal to that amount from those BG/Insurance Bonds which were submitted by the contractors. Please confirm. No, please.

101 IV-B 12.1(j) 116 Considering the experience of executing the Central Amended BharatNet project and in order to maintain cashflows for smooth construction of NOC, we request BSNL to review the below timelines and revise accordingly: 1. Physical Infra Readiness & Delivery of S-NOC material > Readiness of civil, electrical infrastructure > Delivery of hardware, software applications and licenses - 50% 2. Installation and commissioning (AT completion) of S-NOC along with at least integration of 10% GPs - 25% 3. Integration with BharatNet NOC (C-NOC) at New Delhi & Bengaluru - 5% 4. Completion of Project - 10% 5. After the completion of 1 year Warranty - 5% This will surely help the PIA in successfully execution of NOC with better cashflows Please refer to Amendment No.- 1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

102 IV-B 14(4) 119 In case there are any changes in the standard engineering instructions, PIA may be asked to execute the work as per the latest engineering instructions. We understand that in case of change in scope of work as per the latest engineering instructions the PIA will be made payment for the amended scope of work as per the requirement of BSNL on a mutually agreed rates amongst BSNL and PIA. Please confirm. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

103 IVC Annexure A 135 Technical Specifications as per TEC GR As per recent PIA BN Ph III tender (revised tenders of tender Nos. T-851 & T-857), TEC-GR standard for following items/material has been updated /modified - - Battery - PLB HDPE Duct - Installation Accessories and fixtures of Self-Supporting Metal free Optical Fibre Cable - Tension/Suspension Pole Assembly Set - MPLS Router - Ethernet electrical to optical media converter - Lan Switch - Network Management System - EMS for DMW Request you to please review and update /modify the list accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.- 4.

104 IV-C Annexure A 135 Technical specifications as per TEC GR We assume that TSEC is not required for all SNOC components. KIndly clarify Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

105 IV C /Ann-B Note 137 The supply of 48F Armored ribbon type OFC will be as per GR under preparation. As TEC GR for 48F Armored ribbon type OFC has already finalized (TEC 85260: 2024), this clause should be deleted. Please refer to Amendment No. 4

106 IV-C 3(6)(c) 149 Functional requirements of S-NOC: NOC should support language like English, Hindi and regional languages for URL and IP database to fulfil web security needs Kindly specify the regional language which the firewall should support? Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

107 IV-C 12 (Helpdesk Solution) 155 Functional Requirements of items mentioned in the S-NOC BoM but minimum requirements not mentioned in the above-mentioned Table are given below- (b) It shall be SIP-based voice network with full redundancy (1:1) and support for IPv6 for futureproofing. We understood that BSNL will provide required SIP connection at SNOC. PIA has to pay for SIP connection and get it reimbursed from BSNL. Please confirm. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

108 IV C 4 (Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT #1) 156 Civil works including site preparation and partitioning works , false flooring, false ceiling, etc. Kindly furnish the details and specifications pertaining to the civil works outlined in Item Serial Number 1. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

109 IV C 4 (Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT #2) 156 Electrical works including light fixtures , cabling, panels + Earthing etc. Kindly furnish the details and specifications pertaining to the Electrical works outlined in Item Serial Number 2. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

110 IV-C 4. Indicative BoM 157 The solution shall support the ability to send SMS/ WhatsApp/e-mail alerts regarding faults as per the defined escalation matrix. SMPP port and WhatsApp business account shall be provided by BSNL on chargeable basis, cost of which shall be reimbursed in the quarterly O&M invoices. As per given clause we understand that PIA will be reimbursed for SMS charges on quarterly basis used for the ABP (Amended Bharatnet Project alert notification) Plase confirm Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

111 IV-C 4. Indicative BoM 157 The solution shall support the ability to send SMS/ WhatsApp/e-mail alerts regarding faults as per the defined escalation matrix. SMPP port and WhatsApp business account shall be provided by BSNL on chargeable basis, cost of which shall be reimbursed in the quarterly O&M invoices. As per given clause we understand that PIA will be reimbursed for WhatsApp charges on quarterly basis used for the ABP (Amended Bharatnet Project alert notification) Plase confirm Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

112 IV-C 4. Indicative BoM 157 The solution shall support the ability to send SMS/ WhatsApp/e-mail alerts regarding faults as per the defined escalation matrix. SMPP port and WhatsApp business account shall be provided by BSNL on chargeable basis, cost of which shall be reimbursed in the quarterly O&M invoices. As per given clause we understand that PIA will be reimbursed for eMail gateway charges on quarterly basis used for the ABP (Amended Bharatnet Project alert notification) Please confirm. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

113 IV-C 4. Indicative BoM 157 The solution shall support the ability to send SMS/ WhatsApp/e-mail alerts regarding faults as per the defined escalation matrix. SMPP port and WhatsApp business account shall be provided by BSNL on chargeable basis, cost of which shall be reimbursed in the quarterly O&M invoices. As per the clause we understand that PIA is required to deploy any one of the services from SMS OR WhatsApp OR eMail alerts. Please confirm Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

114 IV C 4 (Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT & NOC - IT Components) 167 Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT & NOC - IT Components We understand that the bidder need not to submit MAF for any IT or Non-IT products /solution offered for S-NOC. Please confirm 'Yes' or 'No'. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

115 IV C 4 (Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT & NOC - IT Components) 167 Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT & NOC - IT Components We understand that at this bidding stage the bidder need not to submit any Make & Model detail for products /solution (IT or Non-IT) offered for S-NOC. However, make & model for offered solution need to be approved from BSNL before supply. Please confirm 'Yes' or 'No'. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

116 IV C 4 (Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT & NOC - IT Components) 167 Indicative BoM: NOC NON-IT & NOC - IT Components We have observed that few items from this indicative BoM attract 28% GST wheareas few have 18% GST. We understand bidder is allowed to quote flat 18% GST. Please confirm 'Yes' or 'No'. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

117 IV-C IX.(37) 168 IX. Unlicensed Band Radio (UBR) 37. EMS System: As per the page no 85 - e) Alternate Technology Implementation viii. There will be one EMS (Element Management System) for each Alternate Technology proposed in this RFP i.e. Unlicensed Band Radio (UBR) or Digital Microwave (DMW). EMS shall be provided by BSNL at CNOC or any other central location. We assume that BSNL will provide EMS for each alternate technology so in this case given clause no. 37 for UBR at page no 168 is not applicable Please confirm. As per Tender.

118 IV-C X.(3) 175 X. Digital Micro Wave (DMW) 3. EMS System As per the page no 85 - e) Alternate Technology Implementation viii. There will be one EMS (Element Management System) for each Alternate Technology proposed in this RFP i.e. Unlicensed Band Radio (UBR) or Digital Microwave (DMW). EMS shall be provided by BSNL at CNOC or any other central location. We assume that BSNL will provide EMS for each alternate technology so in this case given clause no. 3 for UBR at page no 75 is not applicable Please confirm. As per Tender.

119 Annex. C1 .- 207 Joint Chamber: The Joint chamber shall be provided at every joint location to keep the OF cable joint well protected and also to house extra length of cable which may be required in the event of faults at a later date. The Joint chamber shall be of pre-cast RCC type as per construction specification. Brick chamber can also be made with prior permission of BSNL. Request you to please provide reinforcement details for the RCC Chamber As per applicable Enginerring Instructions. Also, Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

120 Annex. C1 .- 208 Once the alignment is marked, no deviation from the alignment is permissible except with the approval of BSNL. While marking the alignment only the center line will be marked and the CONTRACTOR shall set out all other work to ensure that, the excavated trench is as straight as possible. The CONTRACTOR shall provide all necessary assistance and labor, at his own cost for marking the alignment. CONTRACTOR shall remove all bushes, undergrowth, stumps, rocks and other obstacles to facilitate marking the centre line without any extra charges. It is to be ensured that minimum amount of bushes and shrubs shall be removed to clear the way and the CONTRACTOR shall give all, consideration to the preservation of the trees. Please provide deatiled process to be followed for approval of alignment devation by the bidder. As per applicable Enginerring Instructions. Also, Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

121 Annex. C1 .- 208 Method of Excavation In built up areas, the PIA shall resort to use of manual labour / HDD only to ensure no damage is caused to any underground or surface installations belonging to other public utility services and/or private parties. We understand the bidder will be at the liberty to choose execution methodology. Please confirm Yes/No. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

122 Annex. C1 .- 209 In rocky terrain, less depth shall be allowed only in exceptional circumstances with additional protection where it is not possible to achieve the normal depth due to harsh terrain/ adverse site conditions encountered. This shall be done only with the approval of the BSNL. This shall be properly documented. In all cases, the slope of the trench shall not be less than 15 degrees with the horizontal surface. The width of the trench shall normally be 45 cm at the top & 30 cm at the bottom. Please provide approval procedure for depth deviation to followed in this project. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

123 Annex. C1 .- 215 For fixing pre cast RCC chamber, first a pit of size 2 m x 2 m x 1.8 m depth shall be required to be dug. Pre cast RCC chamber shall consist of three parts (i) round base plate of 140 cm diameter and 5 cm thickness in two halves (ii) full round RCC joint chamber with diameter of 120 cm and height of 50 cm and thickness of 5 cm (iii) round top cover will be in two halves with diameter of 140 cm and thickness of 5 cm having one handle for each half in centre and word “BSNL OFC” engraved on it.(See figure ‘4’). After, fixing the pre-cast RCC joint chamber, the joint chamber is filled with clean sand before closing. Back filling of joint chamber pit with excavated soil shall be carried out in the end. Please provide reinforcement details for RCC route markers. As per applicable Enginerring Instructions. Also, Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

124 Annex. C2 3.8 SPLICE LOCATIONS: The field splices should be buried underground. The cable should be brought down through a 40mm dia GI pipe clamped on the pole. Proper bends (120-135 degree) are recommended for negotiating the bend. Wooden/hard rubber bushes shall be used at the entry and exit points of the GI pipe to avoid damage to the cable. A splice chamber as per the standard practice shall be made. The selection of the splice point shall depend upon the availability of space and the cable length. Wherever, burying of splice closure is not possible, the same be installed on the poles with proper clamping with the approval of BSNL. Loops for OFC that is required to be left at splice location will be 20 Mtr. Please confirm. As per applicable Enginerring Instructions. Also, Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

125 .- Annexure D 267 Technical Specification for GIS Mapping of OFC Routes and Project Management Tool Kindly clarify that BSNL will provide PM Tool and PIA has to update on it. It is not required to implement PM-Tool by PIA As per Tender and the practice being followed in the already awarded packages under Tender T-791.

126 .- Annexure D 267 Technical Specification for GIS Mapping of OFC Routes and Project Management Tool Kindly clarify that BSNL will provide GIS tool and PIA has to update GIS related data on it. PIA is not require to deploy any GIS tool as part of solution As per Tender and the practice being followed in the already awarded packages under Tender T-791.

127 VII TABLE 1 299 Pre-defined rates: The Successful bidder shall also be bound to provide following services for attending the faults of the made over existing network only after receiving the work order for the same by BSNL at the pre-defined rates as mentioned against each item. The quantities shall be as per site requirement. The bidder is supposed to absorb the gain/loss on account of the predefined rates in the quoted price of other line items. These charges shall be applicable only as one time activity. Please confirm whether the predefined rates of Table - 1 are applicable for Sikkim state As per Tender. The item Nos. 12 to 17 in the Table-1 may be ignored. **

128 VII TABLE 2 300 Please provide pre-defined rates for Sikkim state. The table 2 proivdes pre-defined rates for Haryana, Rajasthan, NE-1. Please refer to Amendment No.-3

129 .- .- .- General As per normal process, PIA need to deposit Security Deposit for S-NOC immediately after signing the rent agreement for S-NOC. And monthly rent amount will be paid to BSNL by PIA and same be reimbursed by BSNL on quarterly basis. We request to kindly confirm that security deposit of S-NOC will also be reimbursed by BSNL along with first month rent payment. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

130 .- .- .- General request for inclusion of new clause Email gateway (SMTP) will be provided by BSNL for email alert. Kindly include through corrigendum. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

131 .- .- .- General Query Please confirm whether QA testing for S-NOC item is required or not. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

132 .- .- .- General Query In case QA testing for S-NOC items is need to be done by PIA, we understand that the charges for such QA testing shall be borne by BSNL. Please confirm Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

133 SECTION-IV-A: 2. ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS, Table – A Technical Capability: 4 58 Note-4: If a bidder falls short of the EPC requirement through underground OFC implementation, up to 40% of the EPC requirement can also be met through EPC work of 24 or more core Aerial Fiber Cables (deployed in BharatNet by BBNL or state SPV)/ ADSS/ OPGW OFC. As the tender comprises almost 95% scope of Aerial Fibre Cable deployment, we request that experienced of 100% Aerial EPC should (deployed in BharatNet by BBNL or state SPV)/ ADSS/ OPGW OFC) be allowed by BSNL as eligiblity criteria for participation. Please refer to Amendment No.- 5

134 SECTION-IV-B: Site Survey and Planning 82 BSNL shall provide the GIS details for site and route data of the Existing Network to the PIA on as is where is basis. We request BSNL to kindly provide login ID and password for accessing the existing BharatNet GIS platform. The details shall be shared with the Successful bidder.

135 IV-A Clause 2. Table-A S.No.3 58-59 Financial Capacity: Average annual turnover: The Bidder should have minimum Available Average Annual Turnover (Available Financial Bid Capacity, to be calculated as per the formula defined below) of last three Financial Years, as per column-5 of Table-B. Available AATO= A - B, A = Average Annual Turn Over of last three Financial Years. B = AATO to be consumed (as defined in Column5 of Table-C, below) for the awarded package to the Bidder (either as a Sole Bidder, a Lead Bidder or consortium partner), through the previous tenders T-791 and T-851 issued by BSNL for ABP PIA. In case, Bidder (either as Sole Bidder, Lead Bidder or consortium partner) has been awarded 2 or more packages, the consumed AATO (i.e. value of ‘B’) shall be equal to the sum of Minimum Average Turn Over [as per column-5 of tableC], of (i) 100% value for the higher ranked (starting from Sl. No 1) of the awarded package and (ii) 25% value of the subsequent awarded package/s. Consumption of Bid (Financial) Capacity (i.e. value of ‘B’) for a Bidder in this tender shall be derived after adding the value of ‘B’ for the Lead Bidder and all the consortium partners. In case, Lead Bidder and Consortium Partner/s have jointly been awarded any package/packages under BSNL tender T-791 and T-851, and participate jointly in this tender also, in that case, consumption shall be applied only once Note: In case of consortium of two members, at least 50% of Available Average annual Turn Over requirement should be met by the Lead Member. In case of consortium of three members, at least 40% of Available Average annual Turn Over requirement should be met by the Lead Member. Remaining turn over to be met by remaining consortium partners, cumulatively. However, the other members of the consortium should have minimum Rs. 100 Cr average annual turnover during last 3 financial years. Since the Sikkim State BharatNet Middle Mile tender is an independent project and not part of the earlier tender (T-791 and T-851), we request the Department to remove the clause related to Consumption of Bid (Financial) Capacity (i.e., value of ‘B’) — the turnover consumed in the (T-791 and T-851) tender and its deduction from the turnover requirement of this RFP. We suggest that the Department may instead consider only the Average Annual Turnover requirement specified in Table-B – Financial Qualification Criteria, without seeking the Available AATO. OR For the calculation of Available AATO = A – B, we request the Department to consider turnover consumption in proportion to the individual consortium members’ declared turnover in the bid form of the earlier bid (T-791 and T-851), rather than applying the new T-857 tender formula at the consortium level. This methodology adversely impacts the bidders’ eligibility, as their qualifications are affected if they are successful in more than two packages. As per Tender.

136 IV-A Clause 2. Table-A S.No. 4(i) 60-61 Technical Capability: (i) The bidder should have Available Technical Capacity of having executed EPC OFC Network Construction project consisting of 24 or more core Under Ground OFC (to be calculated as per formula defined below) in the last 10 years within India, for at least- 4000 Kms. Available Bid Capacity for EPC Work = A - B, A = EPC OFC Network Construction project/s (in RKM) consisting of 24 or more core Under Ground OFC executed during the last 10 years. B = Consumption of Bidders’ Bid Capacity for the Packages already awarded to the Bidder under BSNL’s ABP PIA tender (T-791 & T-851). Value of ‘B’ shall be derived as below: • 8000 Kms if Bidder (either as Sole Bidder, Lead Bidder or consortium partner) has already been awarded any Package of Category-1 under BSNL’s (T-791 & T-851), either as Lead/ Consortium partner / Solo bidder. • 10000 Kms if Bidder (either as Sole Bidder, Lead Bidder or consortium partner) has already been awarded One Package of Category-1 and One Package of Category-2 under BSNL’s (T-791 & T851), either as Lead/Consortium partner / Solo bidder. • 12000 Kms, if Bidder (a Sole Bidder, a Lead Bidder or any consortium partner) has already been awarded 1 package of Category1 and more than 1 package of Category-2 under BSNL’s (T-791 & T851), either as Lead/Consortium partner / Solo bidder. • 12000 Kms, if Bidder (a Sole Bidder, a Lead Bidder or any consortium partner) has already been awarded more than 1 package of Category-1 and 2000 Kms per additional package of Category-2 under BSNL’s (T-791 & T-851) either as ead/Consortium partner / Solo bidder. • 4000 Kms, if Bidder (a Sole Bidder, a Lead Bidder or any consortium partner) has already been awarded 1 package of Category2 under BSNL’s (T-791 & T-851), either as Lead/ Consortium partner / Solo bidder. • 2000 Kms, additional per package in addition to 4000 Kms, if Bidder (a Sole Bidder, a Lead Bidder or any consortium partner) has already been awarded more than 1 package of Category-2 under BSNL’s (T-791 & T-851), either as Lead/Consortium partner / Solo bidder. • The EPC OFC Construction project execution shall consist of both Supply of all material and Construction of OFC Network. In line with the Turnover clause, we request the Department to remove the Available Bid Capacity condition under Technical Experience, and therefore the calculation of A – B should not arise. OR For the calculation of Available Bid capacity for EPC Work = A – B, we request the Department to define “B” as the EPC consumption declared in the bid form by the respective Lead Partner / Consortium Partners for the packages awarded under the earlier tender (T-791 and T-851). As per Tender.

137 IV-A Clause 2. Table-A S.No. 4(i) 61 & 62 Technical Capability: (ii) The bidder should have satisfactorily completed in the last 10 years within India, the O&M of any OFC network of 24 or more Core Under Ground OFC [upto 40% of the O&M requirement can also be met through O&M of 24 or more core Aerial Fiber Cables (deployed in BharatNet by BBNL or state SPV)/ ADSS/ OPGW OFC for the number of ‘Year Kms’ (for the network for which O&M has been done for at least one year) at least equal to No. of Kms, as required for EPC Network Construction capability mentioned in para 4(i) above. Year Kms: If O&M of “X” Kms of OFC has been done for “N” years (N>=1), then ‘Year Kms’= ”X multiplied by N”. Consumption as mentioned in Para-4(i) above shall also be applicable. Similar to Clause 4(i) above, we request the Department to remove the Consumption Applicability clause and specify the O&M requirement as applicable solely to this tender only. OR For the calculation of Available Bid capacity for O&M = A – B, we request the Department to define “B” as the O&M consumption declared in the bid form by the respective Lead Partner / Consortium Partners for the packages awarded under the earlier tender (T-791 and T-851). As per Tender.

138 IV-A Clause 2. Table-A S.No. 4(iii) 62 & 63 Technical Capability: (iii) The bidder should have available capacity of having executed Installation and Commissioning of Telecom Equipment, satisfactorily in the last 10 years within India, of at least- 800 active nodes. • The active nodes to be considered for this criterion can be Routers, Layer-3 Switches, BNGs, PTNs/CPANs, DWDM, OLTs of 16 or more ports, enode-B, BTS and OTN. Available Bid Capacity for I&C of Active Nodes = A - B, A = Total experience of Installation and commissioning of Active Nodes (in numbers) executed during the last 10 years in India. B = Consumption of Bidders’ Bid Capacity for the Packages already awarded to the Bidder under BSNL’s earlier ABP PIA tenders (T-791 & T-851). Value of ‘B’ shall be derived as below: 1000 active nodes, if Bidder has already been awarded any Package of Category-1 under BSNL’s (T-791 and T-851), either as Lead bidder / Consortium partner/Sole bidder. 2000 active nodes, if Bidder has already been awarded more than 1 package of Category-1 under BSNL’s (T-791 and T851), 800 active nodes, if Bidder has already been awarded 1 package of Category-2 under BSNL’s (T-791 and T-851), either as Lead/ Consortium partner/Sole Bidder 400 active nodes additional per package in addition to 800 active nodes, if Bidder has already been awarded more than 1 package of Category-2 under BSNL’s (T791 and T-851), either as Lead/ Consortium partner/Sole Bidder. In line with the Financial and Technical clauses mentioned above, we request the Department to remove the clause relating to Consumption of Bidders’ Bid Capacity under the (T-791 and T-851) tender and the condition of Available Bid Capacity for I&C of Active Nodes = A - B would not arise. Instead we request the Dept to consider the Active Nodes experience relevant to this tender only. OR For the calculation of Available Bid capacity for I&C of Active nodes = A – B, we request the Department to consider Active nodes consumption in proportion to the individual consortium members’ declared turnover in the bid form of the earlier bid (T-791 and T-851), rather than applying the new T-857 tender formula at the consortium level. As per Tender.

139 I Clause 7 8 Last Date & Time of Submission of Tender bid: 01/04/2026, by 12:00 Hrs. After publishing clarifications in the eprocurement website, please give an ample time of 15 days for submission of the bid. As per Tender.

140 SECTION-IV-A 2.1-Table-A Sl No 4 64 (i) The bidder should have Available Technical Capacity of having executed EPC OFC Network Construction project consisting of 24 or more core Under Ground OFC (to be calculated as per formula defined below) in the last 10 years within India, for at least- 4000 Kms. Note-4: If a bidder falls short of the EPC requirement through underground OFC implementation, up to 40% of the EPC requirement can also be met through EPC work of 24 or more core Aerial Fiber Cables (deployed in BharatNet by BBNL or state SPV)/ ADSS/ OPGW OFC. As per the SOR of the tender, the scope of Underground OFC laying under this package is only approximately 340 Kms, whereas Aerial OFC laying is approximately 1910 Kms. However, as per the eligibility criteria, bidders are required to submit minimum 2400 Kms Underground OFC experience (60% of 4000 Kms). As per usual industry practice in EPC tenders, the technical experience requirement is generally kept around 1 to 1.5 times of the actual scope of work. In the present case, the required Underground OFC experience is significantly higher than the actual UG scope of the project, which may unnecessarily restrict wider participation of technically capable bidders. Hence, it is requested to kindly revise the UG experience requirement in line with the project scope. Please refer to Amendment No.-5

141 SECTION-IV-B (SCC) 3.10 Last Mile Connectivity 92 The PIA shall use 6F Overhead OFC as per TEC GR as mentioned in the table of TEC GRs in Annexure-A of section- IV-C. 6F Overhead OFC is not specified in Annexure-A of section-IV-C . Please confirm if 6F OFC is required or not and if required then please specify TEC GR standard. Please refer clause-3.10.(i) of Section IV-B

142 SECTION IV, ANNEXURE A S. No 2 135 Aerial OF Cable (ADSS Cable): 48/24F ADSS on power lines : TEC GR Standard No.: TEC 85190:2022 (Type- A-I & A-II) with latest amendments if any; OFC in all packages will be of type- A-1 Semi dry (without ice loading) For ADSS Optical Fibre Cable with reference to TEC GR Standard No. TEC 85190:2022. We understand that required OFC will be of type A-1 Semi dry (without ice loading). Please specify which fiber count is required 24F or 48F. As per Tender.

143 SECTION IV, ANNEXURE A S. No 3 135 12F/24F Aerial Drop Optical Fibre Cable with Installation Accessories (For Last mile applications) : TEC GR Standard No.: TEC 85200:2022 with latest amendments if any (2005 for LMC). Please specify which fiber count is required 12F or 24F as per TEC 85200:2022 As per Tender.

144 SECTION IV, ANNEXURE B II, Technical Specifications for Routers, 2 141 Quantity of each Type of Interface i.e. 100G, 10G, 1G etc - BLOCK ROUTER : The router can be Chassis based for Type A with Control plane & Data plane redundancy but shall be of non-chassis based 1RU form-factor for Type B. Routers shall be as per requirement of chasis and non chasis router defined in GR 48050:2022 We understand from this clause that Type A router should be Chassis based and Type B router be non-chassis based. Is our understanding correct? Clause is self explanatory

145 SECTION IV, ANNEXURE B IV, State NoC (S-NoC), 12 155 Helpdesk Solution - It shall provide video conferencing system with H.265/H.264 support, 1080p resolution, dual monitor HDMI/DVI outputs, and cloud platform compatibility. Helpdesk Solution & Video Conferencing solution are two different requirements. Kindly remove the Video conferencing clause from Help desk solution and keep VC as a separare line item. Please refer to Amendment No.- 1&2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

146 SECTION IV, ANNEXURE B V, RFMS, b 157 The remote test unit should have 48 ports within 2U with 10W power consumption. Connectors to be LC or SC type. Connectors should be in the front panel of RTU preferably. RTU should have Dual DC power input capability/provisioning. Each Nodes, about 50% ports shall be having live or active fiber monitoring facility at 24 Ports (out of 48 Ports) and 24 Ports for dark fiber monitoring. All types of telecom traffic to be considered in case of Live Fiber monitoring. Provision of BY-PASS Filter for Live fiber monitoring in BOQ we understand that the live fiber going from the block will pass through each active Network Element at the GP Location, in this scenario to keep monitoring the same live fiber we need to provision a BY-PASS Filter at each GP Location. number of BYPASS used per route for live fiber monitoring will depend upon network losses +BYPASS Loss+FWDM+STOP PASS Loss We request BSNL to add the bypass WDM coupler in the RFMS SOR line item as this is required at every GP location. Same was added in the BSNL Tender No. MM/BNO&M/BN-III/T-791/2024 issued on 15.02.2024 as per the total number of GPs for each package. As per Tender.

147 SECTION IV, ANNEXURE B V, RFMS, m 159 Integrated cable Management System for Inside and outside plant. Optical Inventory Module for logical and Physical network for port-to-port connectivity, Route search and service provisioning. We understand that this clause belongs to GIS vendor/OEM, as it is not a part of RFMS functionality. Therefore we request to remove this clause from RFMS/RFTS section. Same was removed from the BSNL Tender No. MM/BNO&M/BN-III/T-791/2024 issued on 15.02.2024. Please refer to Amendment No.- 4.

148 SECTION IV-C: ANNEXURE VI. Rack at Block & GP, S.No 1 160 Outdoor/Indoor enclosure for DC Power Plant/AC UPS and Other Network Equipment, Bidder has to provision single multifunction enclosure at each GP and Block for both network and power supply including battery with partitions for power, battery bank and network devices, etc. Separate enclosure for different devices shall not be allowed. Please note that this clause was previously ameded in BharatNet tender T-791 as " The PIA may plan the rack with or without partitions but the same should be able to house all the equipment. However, the bidder may plan isolation for Power system and battery so that these don't affect the electronic items adversely." Kindly amend the clause accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.- 4.

149 SECTION IV-C: ANNEXURE VI. Rack at Block & GP, S.No 3 160 Enclosure Frame Material: Zinc magnesium coating with 25mm system punching in the roof and base frame plus vertical sections with two mounting levels, rolled out of a single sheet. 3 Please note that this clause was previously ameded in BharatNet tender T-791 as" Zinc magnesium coating." Amendment , Dated: 08/05/2024 25 mm system punching is optional provided all the planned equipment can be fitted in the rack. Amendment 1, Dated: 08/05/2024 All the door, side and rear panels to be individually constructed out of separate single sheet." Kindly amend the clause accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.- 4.

150 SECTION IV-C: ANNEXURE VI. Rack at Block & GP, S.No 6 160 Cooling: The housing should be equipped with DC/AC operated cooling Axial Fans, self-starting, double ball-bearing, temperature-controlled operation via controller. Noise level maximum 65dB. The cooling fans should be on a fan tray for ease of access and easy fault identification and diagnosis. N+1 Configuration fans. Standby fan operates automatically when inside temperature exceeds 60°C OR any of the fans fails. The enclosure should also have provision to mount Outlet filters: Material: ABS/PU, For ventilation by convection size and capacity as per heat load requirement. Please note that this clause was previously ameded in BharatNet tender T-791 as" Amendment , Dated: 08/05/2024 Cooling fans will be provided with monitored fan tray and one time temperature setting at factory. " Kindly add this line and amend the clause accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.- 4.

151 SECTION IV-C: ANNEXURE VI. Rack at Block & GP, S.No 9 160-161 Access Control and Monitoring System: Electromagnetic spring loaded metal lock with 9 digit electronic keypad reader for front door with IP/SNMP/Web browser based control and monitoring to central NOC along with temperature, humidity, water logging, fan fail, water leakage from top, fire detection, door open/unauthorized access monitoring to manage the SLA, Enclosure, Fan and Filter, locking and Monitoring system should be from the same OEM. There should be an eMS for monitoring major parameters including Input & Output Voltages, Inside & Outside Temperature, Humidity, Alarms, % battery back up time left. It should also be possible to control/switch on/off Non-Critical Loads/ Extra fans. The monitor & Control should be possible from State NOC as well as Central NOC. Last 24 hrs (at least) Alarm & Access events must be stored with Date & Time stamp. The Rack OEMs may outsource the works related to GI sheet fabrication (cutting, bending, welding) including powder coating of enclosure. Remaining processes like fixing of sensors, locking system, PU gasketing, camera & all other monitoring accessories and EMS shall be done by the Rack OEM itself. All testing facilities for the rack shall be available with the factory of rack OEM only. Please note that this clause was previously ameded in BharatNet tender T-791 as" Electromagnetic spring loaded metal lock with 9 digit electronic keypad reader for front door with IP/SNMP/Web browser based control and monitoring to central NOC along with temperature, humidity, water logging, fan fail, water leakage from top, fire detection, door open/unauthorized access monitoring to manage the SLA, Enclosure, Fan and Filter, locking and Monitoring system should be from the same OEM. There should be an eMS for monitoring major parameters including Input & Output Voltages, Inside & Outside Temperature, Humidity, Alarms, battery back up time left. It should also be possible to control/switch on/off Non-Critical Loads/ Extra fans. The monitor & Control should be possible from State NOC as well as Central NOC. Last 24 hrs (at least) Alarm & Access events must be stored with Date & Time stamp. Amendment , Dated: 08/05/2024 Enclosure, IP/SNMP/Web Browser based control and monitoring system(eMS) should be from the same OEM to ensure that the OEM has sufficient deployment capability and experience as smart rack is most critical for rural applications. Enclosure, IP/SNMP/Web Browser based control and monitoring system(eMS) should be from the same OEM to ensure that the OEM has sufficient deployment capability and experience as smart rack is most critical for rural applications.

152 SECTION IV-C: ANNEXURE: VI. Rack at Block & GP, S.No 11 161 Hidden camera – A hidden tamper proof camera will capture a snapshot every time the door is opened and continues to take snapshots at every 5 minutes for one hour and thereafter every 15 minutes until the door is closed and sends the snapshot to NOC, where it is stored for at least 15 days backup. Please note that this clause was previously ameded in BharatNet tender T-791 as" A hidden tamper proof camera will capture a snapshot every time the door is opened and continues to take snapshots at every 5 minutes for one hour and there after every 15 minutes until the door is closed and sends the snapshot to NOC, where it is stored for at least 15 days backup. Amendment , Dated: 08/05/2024 To ensure working even in darkness, the camera should be IR enable." Kindly add this line and amend the clause accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.- 4.

153 SECTION IV-C: ANNEXURE VI. Rack at Block & GP, S.No 13 161 eMS for Rack Operations– The status of all the racks and all the alarms shall be available in the eMS to be supplied. The eMS shall be integrated both with State NOC and Central NOC. Please note that this clause was previously ameded in BharatNet tender T-791 as" The status of all the racks and all the alarms shall be available in the eMS to be supplied. The eMS shall be integrated both with State NOC and Central NOC. Amendment , Dated: 08/05/2024 All the alarms are to be captured by the eMS. All the control mentioned in the specifications should be enabled through the eMS." Kindly add this line and amend the clause accordingly. Please refer to Amendment No.- 4.

154 IX UNLICENSED BAND RADIO 11 There shall be dedicated auto-tests in all the network elements and equipment required for installation, troubleshooting, Maintenance, etc. The requirement for dedicated auto-tests in all network elements is not aligned with standard tender or regulatory practices. This clause is neither part of BSNL Tender MM/NWP-GSM/UBR / T-779/2023 nor specified under TEC guidelines. Hence, it is requested to remove this clause. As per Tender.

155 IX UNLICENSED BAND RADIO 18 There shall be Selectable channel bandwidth of 20, 40, 80,160 MHz without any SW licenses or restrictions. The requirement for 160 MHz channel support is not aligned with current Indian regulatory framework for 5 GHz unlicensed bands. As per existing DoT/WPC regulations, there is no explicit mandate or guideline that requires support for 160 MHz channelization in unlicensed spectrum. In contrast, the 5 GHz spectrum used by UBR solutions is inherently fragmented and governed by operational constraints such as DFS and limited contiguous bandwidth availability. These conditions make practical deployment of 160 MHz channels in 5 GHz highly impractical and largely irrelevant in real-world scenarios. Consequently, most carrier-grade and outdoor wireless solutions operating in 5 GHz are designed around narrower channel widths such as 20, 40, or 80 MHz to ensure stability, compliance, and optimal spectrum utilization. Therefore, specifying 160 MHz channel support for a 5 GHz-based UBR solution introduces a requirement that is neither driven by Indian regulatory frameworks nor justified from a technical or deployment standpoint. So, we request you to please remove the ask for 160MHz from the clause. As per Tender.

156 IX UNLICENSED BAND RADIO 25 It should be possible to run bulk upgrades in field. Schedule upgrades should also be possible. New firmware download in radio shouldn’t affect user traffic. The requirement that firmware download should not impact user traffic is not practically feasible, as any upgrade process involves a reboot during which traffic interruption is unavoidable. Also as per BSNL Tender MM/NWP-GSM/UBR / T-779/2023, the clause allows traffic impact only during reboot time, which is aligned with industry practice. Hence, it is requested to revise the clause accordingly. As per Tender.

157 IX UNLICENSED BAND RADIO 37.1 The supplied Microwave equipment shall extend all internal and external alarms to the EMS. EMS is not aligned with standard industry practices for UBR or microwave equipment and is not technically viable in typical deployment scenarios. External alarms are generally site-dependent, interface-specific, and often handled through separate infrastructure or integration layers rather than being directly managed by the radio equipment itself. Furthermore, as per BSNL Tender MM/NWP-GSM/UBR / T-779/2023, the clause clearly specifies that “the supplied UBR equipment shall extend all requisite alarms including high temperature to the EMS,” which reflects a more practical and technically appropriate requirement focused on equipment-level (internal) alarms. Therefore, it is requested that the clause be modified in line with the above-mentioned tender by limiting the requirement to internal/requisite alarms only, and removing the mandate for external alarms. As per Tender.

159 SECTION-IV-B 3.1.1. 78 Ring architecture using IP-MPLS: As we understand, dual homing at Block (GP ring termination on 2 block routers) is not envisaged in the architecture.The GP ring originates from a block and both ends of the same ring terminate on the same block.Kindly confirm Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

160 SECTION-IV-B 3.9. j) 91 Initially each ring is be designed for 10Gbps with around 8-10 nodes. However, if there is a requirement subsequently to increase the capacity due to increased bandwidth requirement, additional ring shall be created splitting the nodes using spare fibres and spare ports at the Block router. As we understand, the ring formation is required only for GP routers. Block to Block ring is not in the scope of this tender. Kindly confirm. As per Tender **

161 SECTION-IV-C II. Technical Specification of Router, Category of Router; Block Router 141 The router/Operating System should be compliant to TEC- GR 48050:2022 dated on March 2022 or its latest amendment as per non-Chassis based Aggregation router Category XV or Chassis based Category VI. The OEM shall need to submit a copy of valid TSEC/ TAC or proof of having applied for TSEC/ TAC (BSNL registered QF-103 or TEC Form B) at the time of technical bid submission and the final certificate before commencement of shipment Router should be provided with 1+1 or N +1 power supply and Fan redundancy. Power supplies and Fans should be hot swappable for high availability, to ensure that there is no outage till both (main and standby) power supplies/ fans fail. Request to amend the clause as :- "The Router series /Operating System should be compliant to TEC- GR 48050:2022 dated on March 2022 or its latest amendment as per as per non-Chassis based Aggregation router Category XV irrespective of being chassis based or non chassis based." Remarks :-Since the router at Block will be performing common functionality with similar scale and feature ask irrespective it is chassis based or Fixed form factor. We request to allow chassis based router meeting Category XV scale features and compliances. Compliance to category VI for Chassis based router should be made optional As per Tender.

162 SECTION-IV-C II. Technical Specification of Router - Quantity of each Type of Interface i.e. 100G, 10G, 1G etc; Block Router 141 The router can be Chassis based for Type A with Control plane & Data plane redundancy but shall be of non-chassis based 1RU form-factor for Type B Request to amend the clause as :- " The router can be Chassis based for Type A and shall be of non-chassis based 1RU form-factor for Type B". The control and data plane redundancy shall be optional. The non-chassis based router doesn’t have Control plane & Data plane redundancy and hence we request to remove the Control plane & Data plane redundancy. Also this clause will be in aligned with Bharatnet tender MM/BNO&M/BN-III/T-791/2024 against Clarification No. 450 of 08-May-2024 in RFP. As per Tender.

163 SECTION-IV-C II. Technical Specifications for Routers 145 Environmental Conditions- The routers shall be installed in the buildings without air conditioning where adequate ventilation may or may not be available. Therefore, the routers shall meet the Temperature and Humidity Requirements as per Category B of QM-333 standard Since adequate ventilation may not be there at the buildings where GP and Block routers are installed. We request that QM333 B2 category shall be applicable for GP and Block Routers As per Tender.

164 SECTION-IV-C II. Technical Specification of Router, Category of Router; Block Router 141 The router/Operating System should be compliant to TEC- GR 48050:2022 dated on March 2022 or its latest amendment as per non-Chassis based Aggregation router Category XV or Chassis based Category VI. The OEM shall need to submit a copy of valid TSEC/ TAC or proof of having applied for TSEC/ TAC (BSNL registered QF-103 or TEC FormB) at the time of technical bid submission and the final certificate before commencement of shipment Router should be provided with 1+1 or N +1 power supply and Fan redundancy. Power supplies and Fans should be hot swappable for high availability, to ensure that there is no outage till both (main and standby) power supplies/ fans fail. As we understand, Block Router required to be supplied should be DC Powered (-48V) only ? Kindly confirm. Clause is self explanatory

165 SECTION-IV-C II. Technical Specification of Router, Category of Router; GP Router 141 The router/Operating System should be compliant to TEC- GR 48050:2022 dated on March 2022 or its latest amendment as per non-Chassis based Aggregation router Category XV. The OEM shall need to submit a copy of valid TSEC/ TAC or proof of having applied for TSEC/ TAC (BSNL registered QF-103 or TEC Form-B) at the time of technical bid submission and the final certificate before commencement of shipment. Router should be provided with 1+1 or N +1 power supply and Fan redundancy. Power supplies and Fans should be hot swappable for high availability, to ensure that there is no outage till both (main and standby) power supplies/ fans fail. As we understand, GP Router required to be supplied should be AC Powered only ? Kindly confirm. Clause is self explanatory

166 General General 0 New clarification We understand that Regarding all the materials and TEC GR/ Standards as per Section-IV-C of RFP, the specifications which are explicitly mentioned in the RFP/ Clarifications/ Amendments shall be mandatory. Remaining compliances, as per relevant TEC GR, shall be optional. Kindly confirm As per Tender.

167 General General 0 New clarification in order to maintain the uniformity across the RFP, request to please amend IPMPLS router TEC- GR 48050:2022 with current and latest TEC/GR 48050: 2024 wherever it applicables. Please refer to Amendment No.-4

168 IV-A ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS 66 An ISP/ TSP license holder for Sikkim/WB LSA shall be ineligible to participate. 1. We hold an ISP license; however, we do not operate or provide any ISP/TSP services in the State of Sikkim, and our ISP license does not cover the Sikkim LSA. 2. What if the bidder owns more than 50% stake in a company that holds an ISP Class‑A license, but that company does not operate or do any business in the State of Sikkim? Please refer to Annexure-VIII of the RFP

169 III 14.5 After, the specific approval of Sub contracting of work to any Subcontractor is approved by BSNL, the PIA shall further keep BSNL updated, in writing, whenever, such approved subcontracts are awarded. What is the process and timeline for BSNL's approval of sub-contractors? Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

170 III 16.2 Provided, also that if the contract is terminated under this clause, BSNL shall be at liberty to take over from the Contractor at a price to be fixed by BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT , which shall be final, all unused, undamaged and acceptable materials, bought out components and stores in course of manufacture which may be in possession of the Contractor at the time of such termination or such portion thereof as BSNL may deem fit, except such materials, bought out components and stores as the Contractor may with the concurrence of BSNL elect to retain How will the termination price for "unused, undamaged and acceptable materials" be determined if the contract is terminated due to force majeure? What is the process for negotiation and finalization of this price? Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

171 III 17.1(d) 40 if the average monthly SLA achievement (for GP uptime in the package) is less than 90% for more than 20% of Blocks (SLA to be calculated as an average of all the GPs in a block) consecutively for 3 months for the network where PIA has started O&M phase of existing network (after hand over by BSNL) and newly constructed network. This condition shall be applicable after 1 year from the appointed date. Clarify if the "20% of Blocks" refers to geographical blocks or a percentage of the total number of blocks in the package. Also, confirm how SLA will be calculated for blocks where O&M has just started. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

172 III 17.2 In the event BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT terminates the contract in whole or in part, BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT may procure, upon such terms and in such manner as it deems appropriate, works similar to those undelivered and the Contractor shall be liable to BSNL on behalf of USOF, DoT for any excess cost for such similar works. However, the Contractor shall continue the performance of the contract to the extent not terminated. Clarify the calculation of "excess cost for such similar works" if BSNL procures services from another source at the PIA's risk and cost. Will the PIA be involved in this procurement process or have the opportunity to challenge the cost? As per Tender.

173 III 19 44-45 The "Proposal for OEC" (Annexure B) states that "parties shall not rely upon them as evidence in any arbitration / court proceeding". Confirm if this non-reliance extends to factual information discussed during OEC, or only to proposals and concessions made for settlement Clause is self explanatory

174 III 32.1.1 50 Clause 32.1.1 refers to "negligence of the PIA under contract or tort or on any other ground whatsoever." Clarify the scope of "other ground whatsoever" to limit potential broad interpretations Clause is self explanatory

175 III 32.6(a) 53 Regarding the uncapped liability in Clause 32.6, specifically for "any amount payable as indemnity to USOF, DOT/ BSNL due to its acts or omissions or fraud, gross negligence and willful misconduct," clarify what constitutes "gross negligence" and "willful misconduct" in the context of this contract. Clause is self explanatory

176 III 32.6(e) 53 any loss of or physical damage to property of BSNL, or any third party caused by, arising out of or in connection with the performance of this Contract. clarify if this includes indirect or consequential losses or is limited to direct physical damage Clause is self explanatory

177 III 12.3 Any increase in taxes and other statutory duties/ levies, after the expiry of the delivery date shall be to the supplier's account. However, benefit of any decrease in these taxes/duties shall be passed on to the Purchaser by the supplier. The total price is to be adjusted (by reducing the basic price) with increased duties and taxes as per price mentioned in PO. For changes in taxes/duties after the scheduled time period, if the PIA is to bear the increase, will there be a mechanism to adjust the basic price to absorb this increase, or will it be a direct cost to the PIA? As per Tender.

178 II 22.1(a) 19 It is clarified that GST will be reimbursed on actual basis subject to quoting in the bid as per prescribed rates except the changes in GST rates during the original delivery schedule Clarify how "changes in GST rates during the original delivery schedule" will be handled for reimbursement (Clause 168). Will this apply to both increases and decreases, and what is the process for adjustment? As per Tender.

179 IV-B 13.7 The PIA shall be responsible for maintenance, including FLM of the made over GPON network, comprehensive O&M of OFC network, MPLS network, associated infrastructure, replacement of any OFC damages up to 200 meters length damaged in a single stretch, within AMC cost /charges including material & services Clarify what constitutes "damaged" and if there are specific criteria for determining this, or if BSNL's assessment is final. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

180 IV-B 13.3 In case, such permanent restoration work is required to be taken up beyond 10% of the total taken over incremental OFC RKM, the PIA shall be paid at 90% of the present tender approved rates, in place of predefined rate, for the work carried out beyond 10%. For permanent restoration of damaged/temporarily restored sections beyond 10% of total taken over incremental OFC RKM (Clause 13.3), the payment is 90% of present tender approved rate. Clarify if "present tender approved rate" refers to the rates quoted by the PIA in this RFP or some other benchmark "present tender approved rate" refers to the rates quoted by the PIA in this RFP

181 IV-B 12.1(i) 116 Balance 20% of due payment (As per Table in clause 3.6.(a).iii of section-IV-B) shall be made on successful handover of such OFC along with duct to USOF. clarify what "successful handover of such OFC along with duct to USOF" entails and what criteria must be met for this payment to be released Clause is self explanatory

182 II 25(b)&(c) 20 For "Additional quantities up to 50% of works"...and "repeat order up to 100% of the quantities" clarify the process and criteria for "reasonability of rates based on prevailing market conditions and the impact of reduction in taxes and material/services." Will the PIA have negotiation rights on these rates? As per Tender.

183 IV-A 2.16 Alternatively, the bidders can provide all documents/ information to BSNL for application on trusted portal, in their technical bid. If a make/model is not approved as a "Trusted Product" and the bidder provides documents for BSNL to apply on the trusted portal, what is BSNL's timeline for obtaining such approval, and who bears the risk of delay if BSNL's process is protracted? Obtaining Approvals regarding "Trusted Product" for equipment to be supplied under the tender, shall be sole responsibility of the PIA only, in any case. **

184 IV-B 3.2.1 79 The SIA of State Government shall hand over the Existing Network to BSNL, within a maximum time period as per below table (Table 1 in clause 6) from the agreement signed date, in “good condition” (optical power is in the range -8 dBm to -25 dBm). Will there be a joint inspection and acceptance protocol. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

185 IV-B 3.2.1(4) 81 The GPs becoming operational as per NoC report, will be counted for AMC payments from date of becoming operational. Clarify how "operational" is defined in this context (e.g., is it just optical connectivity, or full service readiness?). Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

186 IV-B 3.4(b) 83 The PIA shall deploy a GIS based planning tool for desktop planning. The tool based on the Geo coordinates of the Block and the GPs shall provide the initial optimal path of the connectivity using road data. The PIA shall use such initial plan for physical site survey. What are the specific requirements for the "GIS based planning tool" to be deployed by the PIA, and how will its output be integrated with BSNL's systems? As per Tender.

187 IV-B 3.4(d) 84 The PIA shall record with videos, constraints about the changes in the desktop routes proposed based on physical survey. I.E. and BSNL may use such evidences for approval of the design and BoQ. The access of such GIS based planning tool shall be given to the IE and BSNL also. Clarify the process and timeline for BSNL's approval of the design and BoQ based on the survey. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

188 IV-B 3.5(b) 84 In case, more than 10 (ten) GPs are necessitated to be connected in a ring as per survey, the same shall be implemented after justification and recommendation by the I.E. and approval by BSNL. clarify the specific justification and recommendation required from the IE for BSNL's approval. Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

189 IV-B 3.5(e)(iii) 85 The PIA shall work out the possible Alternate Technology solutions in consultation with I.E. and submit the report, duly recommended by the I.E., through the BharatNet BA Head to BSNL HQ. BSNL HQ shall approve such cases for implementation. clarify the exact process and timelines for BSNL's approval. What happens if BSNL's decision is delayed, impacting project timelines? Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

190 IV-B 3.5(e)(vi) 85 Clause 3.5(e)(vi) details FLM charges for alternate technology equipment. Clarify the precise scope of "FLM" and the expected response times beyond what's stated for penalties Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

191 IV-B 3.6(a)(iii) 87 PIA and lesser of such OFC and duct shall enter into tripartite agreement with BSNL for the contract period with extension, if any, of O&M for the entire lifetime of the OFC clarify the specifics of the tripartite agreement mentioned. What are the key terms and conditions that BSNL will require in this agreement, particularly concerning long-term access and maintenance? Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851. **

192 IV-B 3.6(d) 88 The Right of Way (RoW) for the project shall be granted as per the existing agreement with the State Government and facilitated by BSNL through introduction letters for creation and upgradation of new and existing network respectively during the construction period What is BSNL's role in facilitating these permissions, and what is the recourse if permissions are delayed despite BSNL's facilitation? Clause is self explanatory

193 IV-B 3.8(h) 90 The PIA shall pay rental as decided by FRAC constituted by BSNL Circle CGM. Clarify the process and timeline for deciding the rental charges for S-NOC space in BSNL buildings by the FRAC (Clause 3.8 (h)). Will the PIA have negotiation rights? Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

194 IV-B 3.8(I)(J) 90 The State NOC created under this project shall be integrated with BharatNet Delhi & Bangalore NOC. The S-NOC shall enable all the eMS to be integrated with Central NOC to fetch the required parameters directly. What are the specific requirements and timelines for integrating the S-NOC with BharatNet Delhi & Bangalore NOC and for enabling eMS integration with Central NOC? Please refer to Amendment No.-1 & 2, Regarding Revised SOR (Section-V of RFP)

196 IV-B 4(iii) 95 The IE will be responsible for conducting Acceptance Test (A/T) check of measurements at different locations on sample basis. What is the precise mechanism and timeline for the IE to conduct "Acceptance Test (A/T) check of measurements at different locations on sample basis" (Clause 4(iii)), and how will this integrate with the PIA's 100% measurement responsibility? Operational matters shall be dealt with as per Tender and SOP / Procedures being adopted in the existing ABP Tenders- T-791 & T-851.

197 IV-B 6(b)(xv) 100 The overall result(s) of the FAT conducted by IE/ BSNL shall be indicated as "Satisfactory" or "Unsatisfactory" as judged at the time of inspection on merits of each case. What is the process and criteria for determining "Unsatisfactory" results during FAT (Clause 6(b)(xv)), and what is the detailed process for rectification and re-submission? Clause is self explanatory

198 IV-B 6(b)(xvi) 101 However, if the discrepancies are less than 10% within a Block, then IE/ BSNL shall provide a provisional acceptance and issue a Provisional Acceptance Certificate as per provision set forth in this Section. What is the impact of this provisional acceptance on payment milestones and the PIA's ongoing obligations? As per Tender.

199 IV-C Annexure B, V(o) 159 The offered solution/Make-Model should have been successfully in operation for minimum 40% of required quantities for the State, for at least one year in the TSPs’ network anywhere or in BharatNet in India. A certificate from the end user should be enclosed with the Bid Clarify what constitutes "successfully in operation" and how this will be verified. Clause is self explanatory

200 IV-B 10.7 Any delay in above-mentioned timelines for initial survey shall attract a penalty of Rs. 100/- per shortfall GP per week or part thereof. Clarify the definition of "shortfall GP" for this penalty calculation Clause is self explanatory

201 IV-B 11.2.7 112 The penalty for Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) for Fiber in Ring is based on "per additional hour." Clarify how this is calculated for partial hours and whether it accumulates daily or per event. Clause is self explanatory

202 IV-B 11.2.7 112 For "No. of OFC cut/Block /month clarify the process for identifying and attributing an OFC cut event, especially in shared or previously managed routes. Clause is self explanatory

203 SECTION-V TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State Page 278 of 369 No. of Blocks = 34 Nos, Kindly share the lat-long of these 34 Block locations . Details shall be shared with the successful bidder after award.

204 SECTION-V TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State Page 278 of 369 No. of GPs= 199 Nos, Kindly share the lat-long of theses 199 GP locations . Details shall be shared with the successful bidder after award.

205 SECTION-V: Schedule of Requirement (SOR) TABLE: V. (1): SoR TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State Page 278 of 369 No. of Blocks = 34 Nos, We understand that thses are going to be BSNL Locations . Kidly confirm Yes please

206 SECTION-V: TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State Page 278 of 369 No. of Blocks = 34 Nos, We understand respective AC/DC power is going to be arranged by BSNL . Kindly confirm Yes, at Blocks.

207 SECTION-V: Schedule of Requirement (SOR) TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State Page 278 of 369 No. of Blocks = 34 Nos, We understand that theses Block location are going to be BSNL Locations with proper shelter infrastructure and PIA will install the Smart rack and FDMS-1 Rack inside the same , Kindly confirm . Yes please

208 SECTION-V: SoR TABLE: V. (1): SoR for IP-MPLS ring in Sikkim State Page 278 of 369 No. of Blocks = 34 Nos, We undestand that at Block Location if in-house or shelter infrastructure are not available then BSNL will arrange the same. Kindly confirm Yes please

209 Under take purchase/ work for balance quantity at the risk & cost of defaulting vendor…...... The condition that BSNL reserves the right to remedied the defects at the risk and cost of the defaulting vendor actually puts the vendor in UNLIMITED/UNCAPPED RISK which is unreasonable, more due to the fact that there are multiple penalties already applicable. Hence, this paragraph may be accordingly amended to incorpate cap of 10% on the risk cost. The risk and cost have been charged in various provisions by BSNL hence we request to amend the said provision as requested. As per Tender.

210 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 6, 7 and 10 26 Failure to supply and/ or Commission the equipment and /or execution of the work at all even in extended delivery schedules, if granted against PO/ WO. We request BSNL to kindly revise the clause as : Defaults by the vendor in the performance of its delivery obligations shall render the vendor liable to the following:- - Short closure of the contract in part or full and/ or termination of the contract for default after serving a notice of 30 days to the vendor to cure the defect. Further the vendor shall not be liable for cost for replacement services in any event. As per Tender.

211 10.3 ... If any defect is not remedied by the supplier within a reasonable time, the Purchaser may proceed to get the defects remedied from other supplier/contractor/PIA etc., at the supplier's risk and expenses, but without prejudice to any other rights which the purchaser may have against the PIA/supplier in respect of such defects. The condition that BSNL reserves the right to remedied the defects at the risk and cost of the defaulting vendor actually puts the vendor in UNLIMITED/UNCAPPED RISK which is unreasonable, more due to the fact that there are multiple penalties already applicable. Hence, this paragraph may be deleted. As per Tender.

212 15 DELAYS IN THE CONTRACTOR'S PERFORMANCE The condition "The cancellation/short closing of order shall be at the risk and responsibility of the vendor and BSNL reserves the right to purchase balance unsupplied item at the risk and cost of the defaulting vendors" puts the vendor in UNLIMITED/UNCAPPED RISK which is unreasonable, more due to the fact that there are multiple penalties already applicable (refer clause 15.2 reproduced in next column). Hence, this paragraph may be deleted. Justification: 15.1 Delay by the vendor in the performance of its delivery obligations shall render the vendor liable to any or all of the following sanctions: (a) forfeiture of its performance security,(b) imposition of liquidated damages and/or (c) Short closure of the contract in part of full and/or termination of the contract for default. These provisions are severe enough. All risk and expense provision appearing in different provisions of the RFP should be deleted considering the above rationale. As per Tender.

213 18.2 Termination for Convenience…....... In the event of termination of the Contract by BSNL for any reason whatsoever, BSNL shall pay the vendor the following amounts: (a) The Contract Price, attributable to the parts of the Equipment(s)/Work(s) executed including goods and services delivered (including also the Work in Progress) by the vendor up to the date of termination. In respect of capital items deployed in the Project, BSNL must purchase at the Written Down Value (WDV) from the vendor all IT & non-IT infrastructure and the hardware and software deployed. The costs reasonably incurred by vendor in the ramp down / disengagement of vendor’s and its subcontractors’ personnel; (c) Any amount to be paid by vendor to its subcontractors in connection with the termination of any subcontracts, including any cancellation charges; (d) Costs incurred by vendor in protecting the Equipment(s)/ Work(s) and leaving the site in a clean and safe condition pursuant to this clause; and (e) The cost of satisfying all other obligations, commitments, and claims that vendor may in good faith have undertaken with third parties in connection with the contract Work in progress. The term “work in progress” shall include but not limited to the value of goods and services meant for delivery to the Purchaser (i) for which manufacturing process was initiated by vendor; or (ii) order was placed by vendor on its vendors, prior to the date of termination. As per Tender.

214 20 Set off Please revise the provision as under: Any sum of money due and payable to the vendor (including security deposit refundable to him) under this contract may be appropriated by the BSNL or any other person(s) contracting through BSNL and set off the same against any claim of the BSNL or such other person or person(s) for payment of a sum of money arising out of this contract only. As per Tender.

215 23 Fall Clause Since price quoted by individual vendors for such huge projects are dependent on many variables, we presume this clause is intended for small scale annual rate contract and not applicable for this turnkey tender. You are requested to please (a) delete this clause OR (b) qualify this clause with current fiscal year; as the terms and conditions may differand wont be same as reffered in the RFP, project management criteria shall be different from the other contract, the reduction in rate as per this clause referring to any other contract shall not be appropriate and logical. As per Tender.

216 32 Indemnitees The indemnity claimed by BSNL is very broad and hence Bidder suggests the following for mutual acceptance “Each party shall indemnify the other from and against any claims by third parties (including any governmental authority and expenses (excluding legal fees and court costs) arising from damage to tangible property, personal injury or death caused by such party’s negligence or wilful misconduct”. BSNL post passing of award make this provision negotiable for the selected bidder is another option for mutual closure. Please include the following provision within the tender "Bidder’s aggregate liability arising out of or in connection with the contract, whether based on contract, tort, statutory warranty or otherwise, shall be limited to an aggregate of most recent 12 months of the charges collected by the bidder under the affected order. The Bidder shall not be liable for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages of any kind including but not limited to loss of use, data, profit, income, business, anticipated savings, reputation, and more generally, any loss of an economic or financial nature, whether these may be deemed as consequential or arising directly and naturally from the incident giving rise to the claim". As per Tender.

217 32.2.2 51 Without limiting the generality of the provisions of this clause, the PIA shall fully indemnify, hold harmless and defend the ‘Authority Indemnified Persons’ from and against any and all suits, proceedings, actions, claims, demands, liabilities and damages which the ‘Authority Indemnified Persons’ may hereafter suffer, or pay by reason of any demands, claims, suits or proceedings arising out of claims of infringement of any domestic or foreign patent rights, copyrights or other intellectual property, proprietary or confidentiality rights with respect to any materials, information, design or process used by the PIA or by the PIA’s Contractors in performing the PIA’s obligations or in any way incorporated in or related to the Project. The indemnity claimed is too broad and hence vendor suggest as under: Vendor shall indemnify and hold harmless BSNL against any third party claim that any of the vendor's deliverables created or material otherwise provided by vendor hereunder infringes a copyright patent of a third party. BSNL shall promptly notify vendor of any third party claim and vendor shall at its option conduct the defence in any such third party action arising as described herein at vendor's sole expense and vendor shall cooperate with such defence. Vendor indemnification shall not extend to any such liability which arises as a result (a) use of vendor's deliverables or services in a manner inconsistent with instructions or documentation provided by vendor; (b) combination of vendor's deliverables or services with software or other programs not provided by vendor. As per Tender.