Ten Years Later, Looking Back And Ahead At A True GeM, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) completed 10 years on August 9, 2026, since its launch by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016.
• GeM serves as a transparent and efficient digital platform for public procurement, connecting 1.37 lakh government buyers with 25 lakh sellers and service providers.
• The platform has achieved a cumulative Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of approximately ₹20 lakh crore, with annual GMV exceeding ₹5 lakh crore in the last two financial years.
• An IIT Delhi study indicated that procurement through GeM resulted in monetized benefits of ₹86,571.69 crore over the last three financial years due to price and process efficiency gains.
• GeM has significantly promoted MSMEs, start-ups, and women entrepreneurs, with MSMEs accounting for approximately 60% of orders by volume.

Detailed Insights:

• GeM has revolutionized public procurement by replacing the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals, which was known for its opaque systems.
• The platform aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by fostering transparency, inclusivity, and digital sovereignty in government procurement.
• By digitizing the entire procurement lifecycle, GeM has eliminated discretion, promoted fair competition, and strengthened public trust through auditable digital trails.
• GeM contributes to the Ease of Doing Business by simplifying registration, standardizing processes, and implementing reforms like discontinuing the Caution Money Deposit.
• It strongly supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swadeshi by prioritizing domestic manufacturers and service providers, thereby strengthening local value chains.
• The platform empowers small businesses and women-led enterprises by democratizing access to government procurement, which was previously dominated by established companies.
• Future plans for GeM include evolving into a smarter, greener, and globally benchmarked platform that harnesses emerging technologies and deepens stakeholder participation.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Government e-Marketplace (GeM): An online platform for government ministries, departments, public sector undertakings, and state governments to procure goods and services.
• Viksit Bharat 2047: A national vision for India to become a developed nation by 2047, emphasizing economic growth, social progress, and good governance.
• Ease of Doing Business: Government initiatives aimed at simplifying regulations and procedures to facilitate business operations and investments in India.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: A policy vision promoting self-reliance and making India a significant and integrated part of the global economy.
• MSMEs: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, which are vital for employment generation, innovation, and economic growth in India.