The Government of Himachal Pradesh has established a structured framework for the auction of electronic items. Pages 7–12 of the official rules focus on the core operational process — from auction publicity to record keeping. Below is a simplified breakdown in blog format.
1. Publicity of Auctions
Only vendors listed with HP State Pollution control board are allowed in auction.
Proper public notice is mandatory before holding an auction.
Notices must be displayed on office boards, and in some cases, announced through newspapers or local channels.
This ensures transparency and wider participation from the public.
2. Auction Committee’s Role
The committee must be present during the auction.
Members ensure that the process remains open, fair, and competitive.
Any disputes or irregularities are to be immediately recorded and resolved.
3. Reserve Price Fixation
Items are inspected and valued before auction.
A reserve price (minimum selling price) is fixed, ensuring no undervaluation of government assets.
Bids below this price cannot be accepted.
4. Lifespan of Electronic Items
Government electronic equipment is auctioned only after being declared obsolete, unserviceable, or beyond economic repair, usually after completing its prescribed lifespan.
Here’s a standard reference table:
Electronic Item
Prescribed Lifespan
Remarks
Desktop Computers
5 years
May last longer with upgrades, but usually obsolete in 5 years.
Laptops/Notebooks
4–5 years
Battery life and frequent upgrades shorten usage span.
Servers
7 years
High-value equipment, longer lifespan if maintained.
Printers (Inkjet/Laser)
4 years
Heavy usage reduces efficiency beyond this period.
Photocopiers
5–6 years
Subject to heavy wear; costly repairs after 5 years.
Scanners
5 years
Dependent on technology shifts and maintenance.
Projectors
5 years
Lamp replacement costly; new models often more efficient.
Networking Equipment
6–7 years
Includes routers, switches, hubs.
Telecommunication Devices
5 years
Phones, intercoms, VOIP devices.
UPS Systems (with battery)
4 years
Batteries typically need replacement every 2–3 years.
External Storage (HDD/SSD)
3–4 years
Prone to failure after prolonged use.
Air Conditioners (IT Rooms)
7–10 years
For cooling server/computer rooms.
LED/LCD Monitors
5–6 years
Gradual loss of brightness with time.
Smartboards / Panels
6–7 years
Dependent on usage frequency and technology upgrades.
5. Auction Day Protocol
The auction is conducted in the presence of the committee.
Bids are announced openly so all participants are aware.
The highest bidder is awarded the lot, provided reserve price conditions are met.
6. Payment Terms
Successful bidders must deposit payment immediately after auction or within a short, specified time.
Payment receipts are issued promptly to maintain accountability.
If a bidder fails to pay, the lot may be re-auctioned or offered to the second-highest bidder.
7. Delivery of Items
Items are handed over only after full payment is received.
Buyers are responsible for removing the items at their own cost.
Government offices are not liable for any damage during removal or transportation.
8. Record-Keeping and Documentation
A dedicated auction register must be maintained.
Details include:
Description of items
Lifespan/years in use
Reserve price
Highest bid amount
Name and signature of successful bidder
Signatures of committee members
These records form the official basis for audits and accountability.
9. Disposal of Unsold Items
Items that remain unsold may be:
Re-auctioned at a later date, or
Declared as scrap for disposal under e-waste management norms.