<h1>India Amends Financial Rules to Restrict Procurement from Border Nations for Security; Exceptions for COVID-19 Supplies Until 2020 End.</h1> The Government of India has amended the General Financial Rules 2017 to restrict public procurement from countries sharing a land border with India, citing national security concerns. Bidders from these countries must register with a Competent Authority and obtain political and security clearance. This Order covers various sectors, including public sector banks, financial institutions, and state government procurements. Exceptions are made for COVID-19 medical supplies until December 31, 2020, and countries receiving Indian development assistance. The new rules apply to all new tenders, and ongoing tenders may be re-evaluated or canceled if necessary. Private sector procurement is not affected.