Government e-Marketplace (GeM), the renowned public procurement platform of the Government of India, has embarked on a significant initiative to organize buyer-seller workshops across all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh. Commencing from today and continuing until August 31st, 2023, these workshops aim to educate and assist MSME sellers in understanding the intricacies of the platform and resolve any queries they may have.
GeM’s decision to conduct workshops in every district of Uttar Pradesh underscores its commitment to disseminating information about the potential of the public procurement platform to sellers in the most remote corners of the state. The workshops are meticulously designed to provide hands-on guidance, enabling sellers to navigate the registration process, comply with regulations, and effectively engage in online selling. GeM experts will be present to offer their expertise, ensuring that the workshops go beyond mere theoretical sessions.
Recognizing the importance of networking and collaboration, the workshops will also provide ample opportunities for businesses to connect with potential buyers and other participants. GeM understands that fostering connections within the marketplace can lead to new business prospects and partnerships, creating a thriving ecosystem for MSMEs.
The Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) mandates that every Central ministry, department, and Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) achieve an annual target of 25% procurement from micro and small enterprises. This policy further emphasizes a sub-target of 4% and 3% (within the 25%) for MSEs owned by SC/ST entrepreneurs and women, respectively. GeM plays a pivotal role in enabling the fulfillment of these procurement goals, acting as a catalyst for inclusive growth.
Launched in August 2016, GeM has emerged as the go-to e-commerce marketplace for the government, empowering MSMEs to directly sell their products and services to government departments and public sector enterprises. With a vast repository of 32 lakh products and 2.53 lakh services available for procurement, GeM has facilitated an impressive 1.54 crore orders worth Rs 4.30 lakh crore.
The government’s unwavering commitment to supporting MSMEs is evident in its procurement spending. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the government surpassed its target by allocating Rs 60,432 crore for procurement from MSEs under the Public Procurement Policy. This exceeded the set target of Rs 42,705 crore by an impressive 42%. The data shared by Anupriya Patel, Minister of State in the Commerce Ministry, showcases the substantial growth in MSME sales, from Rs 422.02 crore in FY17 to an impressive Rs 38,570 crore in FY21.
The GeM workshops in Uttar Pradesh hold immense promise for MSMEs, presenting them with an opportunity to gain comprehensive knowledge of the platform and unlock its vast potential. GeM’s commitment to empowering businesses, fostering growth in the MSME sector, and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the state shines through these workshops.
In conclusion, GeM’s buyer-seller workshops are a commendable step towards empowering MSMEs in Uttar Pradesh. By equipping these businesses with the necessary tools, knowledge, and networking opportunities, GeM is propelling the growth of the MSME sector and paving the way for a brighter future for entrepreneurs across the state.
