The Government e-Marketplace (GeM), India’s flagship digital procurement platform, continues to play a pivotal role in reshaping the country’s public procurement landscape through technology-driven, transparent and inclusive governance. Since its launch on August 9, 2016, GeM has emerged as a key enabler of efficient government purchasing while expanding opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and service providers across the nation.
Introduced as a major governance reform initiative, GeM was designed to replace traditional procurement methods that were often fragmented, paper-based and time-consuming. Over the years, the platform has transformed procurement into a streamlined digital process, reducing human intervention and enhancing transparency at every stage. By providing a centralized online marketplace, GeM has simplified government buying and selling activities while promoting fair competition.
The platform has significantly contributed to improving the ease of doing business in India. Through features such as online registration, transparent bidding systems, digital contract management and end-to-end procurement processes, GeM has lowered entry barriers for enterprises seeking to supply goods and services to government organizations. This has enabled businesses of all sizes to access government procurement opportunities more easily than ever before.
One of the most notable achievements of GeM has been its success in promoting inclusive economic participation. The number of registered Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) on the platform has grown dramatically from just 2,396 in 2016-17 to more than 11.9 lakh today. Procurement from MSEs has also witnessed substantial growth, increasing from ₹69 crore during the platform’s initial year to over ₹8.69 lakh crore. Similarly, the number of procurement orders awarded to MSEs has surged from fewer than 3,000 to more than 2.17 crore.
GeM has also helped create greater opportunities for women entrepreneurs. The number of women-owned MSEs registered on the platform has risen from 268 in its early phase to over 2.16 lakh. Procurement from these enterprises has expanded significantly, with transaction values growing from ₹8 crore to more than ₹93,327 crore. This reflects the platform’s role in supporting women-led businesses and enhancing their participation in public procurement.
Startups have likewise benefited from GeM’s digital ecosystem. The number of registered startups on the platform has increased from just 88 to more than 40,000. Government procurement from these innovative enterprises has crossed ₹61,400 crore, demonstrating growing confidence in startup-driven solutions and technologies.
The platform has also encouraged participation from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) entrepreneurs. Registered SC/ST MSEs have expanded from only 38 entities during the platform’s early years to over 66,000 today. Procurement from these enterprises has surpassed ₹21,800 crore, highlighting GeM’s contribution to broader social and economic inclusion.
Beyond procurement efficiency, GeM has played a crucial role in supporting public service delivery, particularly in the healthcare sector. The platform facilitated the procurement of more than 324 crore vaccine doses and 199 crore syringes, helping strengthen healthcare infrastructure and service delivery. It has also enabled the procurement of diagnostic equipment, medical supplies and healthcare kits for various public services, including Vande Bharat trains.
Technology remains at the heart of GeM’s evolution. The platform increasingly utilizes artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, digital monitoring systems and transparent auction mechanisms to enhance efficiency, accountability and user experience. These innovations are helping government departments make informed procurement decisions while ensuring value for public spending.
Speaking on the occasion, GeM Chief Executive Officer Mihir Kumar highlighted the platform’s contribution to building a transparent and inclusive procurement ecosystem. He emphasized that GeM has expanded access to government procurement for MSEs, startups and local manufacturers while strengthening public service delivery across sectors.
As India advances towards its vision of Viksit Bharat, GeM continues to strengthen digital procurement systems and support national priorities such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat. By connecting government demand with local enterprises, startups, cooperatives and rural businesses, the platform remains a vital driver of inclusive economic growth and governance modernization.
Also Read: Food Prices: Inflation Shows Signs of Easing, But Food Prices Continue to Pressure Households
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
