The National Testing Agency (NTA) has launched a Rs 7.5 crore tender for 24x7 security of its headquarters and examination materials. The move aims to bolster security across its operations.
Tender Details
The NTA seeks bids from security firms for comprehensive protection. This includes guarding the agency’s headquarters on Minto Road and its regional office in Okhla. The contract will initially run for two years. It can be extended twice for one-year periods.
Bid Submission Deadlines
Firms interested in providing security services must submit their bids by 3 pm on August 17, 2026 . A separate tender for printing services closes on August 20, 2026 .
Scope of Security Services
The selected firm will secure examination materials. This includes server rooms, strong rooms, warehouses, and record rooms. The firm will monitor all personnel and visitor movements on NTA premises. Regulation of entry and exit is required. Identity verification and access log maintenance are mandatory.
Security infrastructure will include metal detectors and GPS tracking for guards. Biometric attendance systems will be installed. Digital incident reporting tools are also part of the plan.
Evaluation Process
The NTA will use a quality-and-cost-based selection (QCBS) model. This replaces previous cost-focused methods. Technical capability will carry 70% weight. The financial bid will account for 30%.
Firms must score at least 70 out of 100 in the technical assessment. Only these firms will proceed to the financial bidding stage.
Eligibility Criteria
Security firms must meet specific requirements to bid.
- Average annual turnover of at least Rs 10 crore for the past three financial years.
- Minimum five years of experience in professional security services.
- Prior experience with high-security organizations. This includes government institutions, examination agencies, universities, airports, hospitals, or metro systems.
Context of the Tender
The tender comes after allegations of a NEET UG paper leak. IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti stated the leak originated from question paper setters. The NTA conducts the NEET UG examination. The paper was allegedly leaked before a re-examination on June 21, 2026.
