The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has reached a landmark achievement by crossing a cumulative ₹15,00,000 crore (US$ 171.3 billion) in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) since its inception in 2016. This milestone underlines GeM’s transformative role in shaping a transparent, inclusive, and technology-driven public procurement ecosystem in India. Over the past nine years, GeM has emerged not just as a procurement portal but as a nationwide enabler of entrepreneurship, inclusivity, and innovation.

The Evolution of GeM Since 2016

Launched in 2016, GeM was envisioned as a central platform to revolutionize public procurement by replacing traditional, time-consuming, and often opaque tendering systems. By leveraging digital technology, data analytics, and process simplification, GeM became a game-changer in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and equitable participation. Today, GeM stands as a testament to India’s Digital India mission, enabling government buyers and sellers from across the nation to transact with ease and accountability.

In less than a decade, the platform has transformed into a multi-stakeholder marketplace, accommodating diverse participants such as Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), women-led businesses, startups, Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) enterprises, and Self-Help Groups (SHGs). This inclusivity has been instrumental in creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, driving local entrepreneurship, and strengthening India’s socio-economic fabric.

Milestone Achievement: ₹15 Lakh Crore GMV

The achievement of ₹15 lakh crore in GMV is not merely a financial statistic but a reflection of trust, efficiency, and growing reliance on GeM as a procurement backbone for the Indian government. With thousands of central and state departments, PSUs, and other government entities adopting the platform for procurement, GeM has created an integrated ecosystem that fosters competitiveness and transparency.

According to Mr. Mihir Kumar, CEO of GeM, this milestone represents the trust and confidence placed by stakeholders. He emphasized GeM’s ongoing commitment to deepening inclusivity, simplifying processes, and fostering innovation, all in alignment with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat.

Empowering Entrepreneurs and Driving Inclusivity

A key pillar of GeM’s success has been its ability to empower entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. By eliminating bureaucratic hurdles and reducing entry barriers, GeM has enabled MSEs, startups, women entrepreneurs, SC/ST enterprises, and SHGs to directly participate in public procurement.

• Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs): GeM has become a vital growth channel for MSEs, allowing them access to government contracts that were once out of reach due to procedural complexities.

• Women-led Enterprises: Through tailored initiatives and simplified access, women entrepreneurs have been able to leverage GeM as a platform for growth and financial independence.

• Startups and Innovators: GeM has supported startups by offering them opportunities to showcase innovative products and services, encouraging a culture of Make in India and innovation-driven procurement.

• Social Inclusion: By actively supporting SC/ST enterprises and SHGs, GeM has integrated social equity into procurement practices, ensuring that growth is not limited to large enterprises but reaches marginalized communities.

Transparency Through Technology

One of GeM’s greatest contributions is embedding transparency and accountability into public procurement. Unlike traditional procurement systems that were often prone to inefficiencies and opacity, GeM uses real-time dashboards, AI-driven analytics, and process automation to minimize delays, reduce human intervention, and curb corruption.

This commitment to policy reforms and digital monitoring has strengthened stakeholder trust and contributed to fiscal discipline within government procurement systems.

Strengthening Digital India and Viksit Bharat

GeM’s role extends beyond procurement—it is a driver of India’s digital transformation. By creating a seamless, technology-first platform, it has reinforced the government’s Digital India initiative. The platform also aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat, which emphasizes sustainable growth, inclusivity, and innovation-led development.

As India continues its journey toward becoming a global economic powerhouse, platforms like GeM are crucial in bridging gaps, ensuring fair access, and promoting equitable opportunities.

The Road Ahead for GeM

While crossing ₹15 lakh crore GMV is a major milestone, GeM’s journey is far from complete. Its future vision includes:

• Sustained Efficiency: Continuing to simplify procurement processes and reduce transaction costs.

• Deepening Inclusivity: Expanding opportunities for women, rural entrepreneurs, and marginalized communities.

• Fostering Innovation: Encouraging adoption of new-age technologies and startups that can redefine government procurement.

• Global Aspirations: Positioning GeM as a model for other nations looking to transform public procurement digitally.

By aligning with these goals, GeM is poised to further strengthen India’s digital economy while enhancing transparency and inclusivity in governance.

In conclusion, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) crossing ₹15 lakh crore in cumulative GMV is not just an economic benchmark but a symbol of trust, inclusivity, and innovation in India’s digital governance journey. It reflects the power of technology-driven reforms in democratizing opportunities, empowering diverse communities, and shaping a transparent and accountable procurement ecosystem. Going forward, GeM’s role will remain pivotal in enabling a resilient, efficient, and equitable digital economy, perfectly aligned with the aspirations of Viksit Bharat.

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