In a significant milestone for India’s digital governance journey, Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has achieved a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of Rs 15 lakh crore since its launch in 2016. This achievement is not just a number, it reflects a major shift in public procurement practices in India, making it more transparent, efficient and comprehensive.

Started under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, GeM has grown into a strong and dynamic digital platform that connects government buyers with sellers across the country. From startups and MSEs to women-led businesses and self-help groups (SHGs), GeM has enabled thousands of businesses to participate in government procurement like never before.

A Platform of Inclusion and Innovation

Celebrating this remarkable achievement, Shri Mihir Kumar, CEO of GeM, stated:

Crossing Rs. 15 Lakh Crore GMV milestone is proof of the confidence our stakeholders have in GeM. This achievement belongs to millions of sellers and buyers who have changed the way the public procurement is carried out in India. Our focus remains on deepening inclusion, simplifying processes and promoting innovation so that opportunities reach every corner of the country. Together, we are building a transparent, responsive and digitally enabled procurement ecosystem that is aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

GeM’s commitment to inclusivity is apparent through its strategic focus on empowering participation from diverse communities. Over the years, it has:

• Expanded procurement access to lakhs of sellers across different sectors
• Increased engagement from Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), startups, women entrepreneurs, and SC/ST-led businesses
• Embedded transparency, minimizing the potential for inefficiencies and corruption
• Promoted digital adoption across ministries, departments, and states

This inclusive ecosystem has also contributed to entrepreneurship, innovation, and equitable economic growth, goals that are at the core of the “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) vision.

Transforming Governance through Technology

What makes GeM unique is its technical backbone. By streamlining the process and excluding unnecessary bureaucracy, the platform has significantly lowered the barriers for small sellers. With a user-friendly interface, AI-powered product inventory, real-time analytics, and policy-backed security protocols, GeM has become a model for digital transformation in governance.

Every transaction on GeM indicates more than a purchase, it represents trust, transparency and empowerment. State governments have also demonstrated ample participation. For instance, Uttar Pradesh emerged as one of the highest buying states, contributing significantly to the overall GMV.

The Government has also implemented reforms such as waived vendor assessment charges for startups and MSEs, simplified sellers on boarding, and also implemented reforms like a decentralized registration process, which makes procurement more inclusive and competitive procurement space.

Looking Ahead: The Future of GeM

With Rs.15 lakh crore GMV now under its belt, GeM is not slowing down. The platform is gearing up to further scale its impact by:

• Deepening rural and grassroots outreach
• Strengthening technological infrastructure
• Supporting new-age startups with tailored procurement opportunities
• Enhancing policy frameworks to keep processes agile and transparent

As India grows rapidly towards a fully digital economy, is positioned to remain at the heart of public procurement reform, filling the gap, empowering small businesses, and fostering impartial growth across all regions and sectors.

Conclusion

GeM’s Rs 15 lakh crore milestone is a significant leap in India’s digital governance. As it grows its reach and impact, GEM is setting the standard for transparent, comprehensive and technology-focused public procurement across the country.