The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has achieved a significant milestone on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, recording procurement worth ₹1 lakh crore since the portal’s inception in 2016. This achievement underscores MoD’s commitment to optimizing public spending in the defense sector through efficient procurement practices on GeM.
Procurement Milestones
- The MoD has executed over 5.47 lakh orders through GeM, ranging from general store items to critical defense acquisitions.
- Transactions worth approximately ₹45,800 crore have been awarded in the current fiscal year alone, demonstrating robust procurement activity.
Empowering Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs)
- Around 50.7% of total orders, totaling ₹60,593 crore, have been awarded to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), including defense-related public sector enterprises.
- This highlights MoD’s commitment to fostering the growth of MSEs and promoting inclusivity in defense procurement.
GeM’s Growth Trajectory
- Since its launch, GeM has witnessed accelerated procurement activity, indicating its effectiveness in streamlining government purchases.
- Procurement through GeM is projected to surpass ₹4 lakh crore by the end of the current fiscal year, with transactions already exceeding ₹3 lakh crore.
Platform Overview
- GeM boasts over 63,000 government buyer organizations and more than 62 lakh sellers and service providers, offering a diverse range of products and services.
- The portal facilitates transactions for various government entities, including ministries, public sector units, state governments, and central armed police forces.
Product and Service Categories
- GeM offers a comprehensive array of products, ranging from office stationery to vehicles, catering to diverse procurement needs.
- Major product categories include automobiles, computers, office furniture, while services such as transportation, logistics, waste management, and webcasting are also available on the portal.
Global Standing
- Currently ranked third globally, GeM trails behind South Korea’s KONEPS and Singapore’s GeBIZ, positioning it as a significant player in the international procurement landscape.