CONTENTS Preface Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Model RFQ Document 1.Why is a standardised framework necessary for PPP projects? 1 2.Why is the selection of a credible project sponsor important? 1 3.What are single and two-stage bidding processes? 1 4.When is two-stage bidding used? 1 5.Is the two-stage bidding process mandatory for PPP projects? 1 6.What is the purpose of the RFQ process? 2 7.What is the purpose of the RFP process? 2 8.What is the purpose of the Model RFQ document? 2 9.What is pre-qualification? 2 10.Should all pre-qualified firms be invited to submit financial bids? 2 11.What is short-listing? 2 12.Why should short-listing be adopted for PPP projects? 3 13.Is there any disadvantage of short-listing? How can it be overcome? 3 14.What is the past experience in India regarding pre-qualification? 3 15.What were the flaws in the practice of pre-qualification? 4 16.What factors should be considered for evaluating technical capacity? 4 17.How should financial capacity he evaluated? 4 18.Should the capacity of all consortium members be counted? 5 19.What is the process of short-listing under the Model RFQ? 5 20.Does short-listing compromise on the tenets of equity and fair play? 5 21.What is the ultimate purpose of short-listing? 6 22.Can the objective not be met by raising the threshold? 6 23Why not pre-qualify all firms that cross the threshold? 6 24.How objective is pre-qualification based on a threshold? 7 25.Is the threshold in Model RFQ an adequate test? 7 26.How does the Model RFQ address these constraints? 8 27.Should technical evaluation be done after the RFQ stage? 8 28.Is the procedure laid down in the Model RF'Q cumbersome? 9 29.Is the standardised RFQ rigid and difficult to implement? 9 30.Does the criteria for pre-qualitication need to be stringent? 9 31.Can short-listing be regarded an arbitrary practice? 9 32.How can greater participation be encouraged? 10 33.Does the Government have a responsibility towards smaller firms? 10 34.Is the methodology adopted in the Model RFQ objective? 10 35.Do industry organisations oppose short-listing? 10