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Tuesday, 20 May 2025

Government e Marketplace (GeM) Celebrates 8th Foundation Day; Launches India’s First GenAI Chatbot and Empowers 13 Lakh+ Small Entrepreneurs

On May 19, 2025, the Government e Marketplace (GeM), India’s national public procurement platform, celebrated its 8th Incorporation Day, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive economic growth and digital governance. The milestone highlighted GeM’s transformative impact on public procurement, empowering diverse stakeholders and driving Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

GeM’s Growth and Impact

A Thriving Ecosystem

GeM has witnessed a threefold increase in its user base, with over 1.64 lakh primary buyers and 4.2 lakh active sellers onboard. The platform offers 10,000 product categories and 330 services, facilitating efficient procurement. Independent assessments by the World Bank and the Economic Survey note an average 10% cost saving in government procurement, underscoring GeM’s economic impact.

Empowering Diverse Stakeholders

Inclusion at the Core

GeM has integrated over 10 lakh Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs)1.3 lakh artisans and weavers1.84 lakh women entrepreneurs, and 31,000 startups into its ecosystem. As stated by Shri Mihir Kumar, CEO of GeM, “From MSEs and startups to weavers and women-led enterprises, our journey goes beyond procurement—it’s about building an accessible, efficient, and equitable marketplace.”

The platform has reduced financial barriers, with 97% of transactions free from charges and fees slashed by 33% to 96%, capped at ₹3 lakh for orders above ₹10 crore. Sellers with turnovers below ₹1 crore benefit from a 60% reduction in caution money deposits, with exemptions for select groups.

Stakeholder GroupNumber Integrated
Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs)10 lakh
Artisans and Weavers1.3 lakh
Women Entrepreneurs1.84 lakh
Startups31,000

Innovative Initiatives

GeMAI: India’s First GenAI Chatbot

A highlight of the celebration was the launch of GeMAI, India’s first generative AI-powered chatbot in the public sector. Supporting 10 Indian languages with voice and text interactions, GeMAI enhances user support and exemplifies GeM’s commitment to inclusive digital governance. Additionally, GeM’s advanced analytics enable real-time fraud detection and risk mitigation, ensuring transparency.

Key Transactions and National Reach

Driving Strategic Procurement

GeM has facilitated significant transactions, including ₹5,000 crore for the Akash Missile System and ₹5,085 crore for vaccine procurement. The platform supports complex services like drone-as-a-service for AIIMS, GIS, and insurance for 1.3 crore lives. Adopted across all 36 States and Union Territories, GeM is mandatory in eight states, with Uttar Pradesh leading in usage. Successful IFMS integrations in states like Assam and Kerala pave the way for further rollouts.

Aligning with National Goals

Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat

GeM’s efforts align with India’s vision of self-reliance. By empowering small sellers and integrating diverse groups like self-help groups and FPOs, GeM fosters inclusive growth. Shri Mihir Kumar emphasized, “GeM will scale even greater heights and contribute meaningfully to making India truly Aatmanirbhar.”

Key Highlights

  • Celebrated on May 19, 2025, GeM’s 8th Incorporation Day highlighted its role in inclusive procurement.
  • Over 10 lakh MSEs1.84 lakh women entrepreneurs, and 1.3 lakh artisans integrated.
  • Launched GeMAI, India’s first GenAI chatbot in the public sector, supporting 10 Indian languages.
  • Facilitated ₹5,000 crore for Akash Missile System and ₹5,085 crore for vaccines.
  • Adopted in all 36 States/UTs, with mandatory use in eight states.
  • Reduced transaction fees by 33% to 96% and caution money by 60% for small sellers.