What is GeM ?

GeM stands for Government e-Marketplace. It is a 100% government-owned, online platform for public procurement in India. Its primary goal is to make the process of purchasing goods and services by various government departments, organizations, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) more transparent, efficient, and inclusive.

Think of it as an "Amazon for the Indian Government," but with a strong focus on rules, regulations, and supporting specific national objectives.

Key Objectives of GeM

1. Transparency: Every step of the procurement process is recorded and visible, reducing discretion and the potential for corruption.

2. Efficiency: Streamlines the entire process from vendor registration and bid submission to order placement and payment, saving time and resources.

3. Inclusivity: Provides a platform for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), Startups, and Women Entrepreneurs to sell directly to the government.

4. Cost-Effectiveness: Encourages competition among sellers, leading to better prices for the government.

5. Make in India: Promotes the purchase of domestically manufactured goods.

6. Who Uses GeM?

   The platform has two main user groups:

7. Buyers:

   • All Central Government Ministries and Departments.

   • All State Government and UT Departments.

   • Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).

   • Autonomous institutions of the government.

   • Local bodies, Panchayats, etc. (can also onboard).

8. Sellers/Service Providers:

   • Manufacturers.

   • Authorized Dealers/Distributors.

   • Service Providers (like transporters, IT consultants, event managers).

   • Especially encouraged: MSEs, Startups, Women-led Enterprises, Artisans, Khadi and Village Industries, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and FPOs.

   • Key Features of the GeM Portal

   • Wide Product Range: Offers millions of products across countless categories, from office stationery and computers to cars and industrial equipment.

   • Services Procurement: Allows procurement of services like transportation, logistics, web casting, advertising, and analytical services.

   • Multiple Buying Modes:

     • Direct Purchase: For low-value orders where buyers can compare prices and buy directly from a seller.

     • L1 Bidding: The buyer floats a tender, and the bidder with the lowest price (L1) wins the contract.

     • Reverse Auction: Bidders compete online in real-time to offer the lowest price.

     • Bulk Purchase: For aggregating demand across departments to get better prices.

   • GeM Outlet: A section for selling surplus and obsolete inventory of government departments.

   • GeM SAHAY: An integrated system for invoice financing, where sellers can get quick loans from banks based on their invoices raised on GeM.

   • User-Friendly Interface: The portal is designed to be intuitive for both buyers and sellers.

   • Official Resources

   • Main Website: https://gem.gov.in

   • Helpdesk: 1800-419-3436 / 1800-102-3436 | helpdesk@gem.gov.in

   • GeM Training Portal: https://learn.gem.gov.in (for tutorials and webinars)

   • Medisafe International (GEM Presence)

   • Medisafe International @ GEM