The National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) has invited Expression of Interest (EoI) from consultancy organizations for an independent assessment of the National AIDS Control Programme, as part of revamping the existing AIDS/HIV control measures in the country.

The consultant will have to submit the report and suggestions within three months since the appointment. The basic objective of the proposed study includes review-cum-overall assessment of all the components of the existing programme.

According to NACO sources, the final report will include the details of all the activities carried out under the assessment - a complete analysis and interpretation of information collected and recommendations for improvement of structural, functional, administrative and management aspects of the programme. Further, the consultant will assess the correctness of the approaches used in tracking the HIV epidemic in the country including process of HIV estimation and suggest ways on improving existing approaches and/or suggesting new approaches in this process.

NACO will consider for the assignment only sound firms having an expert team in the fields of Epidemiology and Public health, financial and programme management, community based prevention programmes, IEC/Communication etc. The firm will be selected through a transparent procedure based on quality-cum-cost basis. The information on adequacy and availability of resources to carry out the assignment includes financial statement for the last three years and list of major similar assignments undertaken in last five years, apart from other proof of ownership and other details.

NACO will review the letters of Interest, and will short-list a few consultants. They will be invited to submit detailed technical/financial proposals through Request for Proposals as per specified terms of reference, and then only the consultant will be appointed for the assignment, said the NACO notification. Letters of expression of interest with accompanying materials have to be submitted with NACO on or before 17th January 2005.

The National HIV/AIDS Control Programme is being implemented in India by NACO under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, through the various AIDS Control Societies (ACS) in states and with the help of voluntary associations.