GeM Marks 8 Years of Transforming Public Procurement

Government e Marketplace (GeM), India’s national public procurement portal, has celebrated its 8th Incorporation Day, reaffirming its role in driving inclusive economic growth and digital governance. Since its inception, GeM has revolutionized procurement processes, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accessibility for businesses across the country.  

 

Expanding Reach and Impact  

- GeM’s user base has tripled in recent years, with over 1.64 lakh primary buyers and 4.2 lakh active sellers now onboard  

- The platform offers more than 10,000 product categories and over 330 services, catering to diverse procurement needs  

- Independent assessments, including those from the World Bank and Economic Survey, validate GeM’s impact, noting an average cost saving of nearly 10% in government procurement  

 

Empowering Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs  

- Over 10 lakh Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), 1.3 lakh artisans and weavers, and 1.84 lakh women entrepreneurs have been integrated into the procurement ecosystem  

- The platform actively supports startups, self-help groups, and farmer producer organizations, ensuring equitable access to government contracts  

- Nearly 97% of all transactions on GeM are now free from transaction charges, making procurement more accessible for small businesses  

 

Technological Advancements and Future Plans  

- GeM has launched India’s first generative AI-powered chatbot in the public sector, enhancing user support and service delivery  

- The platform is working on integrating rate contract and global tendering functionalities to improve flexibility and competitiveness  

- Successful integrations with state financial management systems have paved the way for upcoming rollouts in Gujarat, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh  

 

Looking Ahead  

- GeM continues to evolve as a key driver of India’s digital economy, fostering innovation and efficiency in public procurement  

- The platform remains committed to expanding its reach, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can participate in government contracts  

- As GeM enters its ninth year, its focus on inclusivity and technological innovation is expected to further strengthen India’s procurement landscape  

 

Sources: Press Information Bureau, Economic Times, News9Live.