FATYCM urges Guv to end minus-rate tender practices in hill districts
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 26 2025: The Federation of All Tribal Youth Club Manipur (FATYCM) has submitted a representation to the Governor, seeking urgent intervention to stop the prevailing practice of awarding Government works at minus-rate tenders, particularly in the hill districts of the State.

In the memorandum submitted on Friday, FATYCM highlighted that the widespread practice of minus-rate tendering-where contracts are awarded at rates lower than the estimated cost - has severely undermined the quality, durability, and timely completion of developmental projects in the remote hill areas.

The Federation expressed concern that contractors quoting minus rates are often unable to meet the real costs inaccessibility of the hill districts.

"This has frequently resulted in works being left incomplete, executed sub-standardly, or abandoned midway, defeating the very objectives of Government projects meant for public welfare", it added.

FATYCM also stated that this practice has deepened disparities between the hill and valley districts, as the cost of execution in the hills is inherently higher.

"Such tendering practices not only compromise developmental outcomes but also erode the principle of equitable growth", it added.

The Federation further urged the Governor to direct all concerned departments to refrain from awarding works at minus rates in the hill districts; ensure fair and realistic tendering processes that duly account for the geographical and sociodevelopmental works are not compromised due to unfair tendering practices.

Reaffirming its faith in the Governor's commitment towards inclusive and balanced development, FATYCM expressed hope that necessary measures will be initiated at the earliest in the interest of justice and equity.

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