GeM Portal – In India, online marketplaces are gaining popularity for buying and selling various goods and services. One significant platform is the Government e-Marketplace, commonly known as the GeM Portal, which facilitates transactions between buyers and sellers in a regulated environment.
Through the GeM Portal, different governmental departments and organizations can engage in the trade of goods and services efficiently. This article will provide an in-depth look at the GeM Portal, its functionalities, and a step-by-step guide on how to register and use the platform for buying and selling services and products.
About GeM Portal
The full form of GeM is “Government e-Marketplace.” It serves as a focused, transparent online marketplace designed for the exchange of goods and services among various entities in the public sector. This platform not only promotes buyer-seller interactions but also aims to eliminate corruption while enhancing transparency and efficiency in government procurement.
The GeM Portal allows all levels of government agencies, including federal, state, and local bodies, to procure a wide array of products and services while maintaining transparency and integrity in transactions. Essentially, it acts as a marketplace where both buyers and sellers can list their goods for competitive bidding or direct purchasing. Registration on the portal is mandatory to engage in transactions.
Objectives of the GeM Portal
The GeM Portal has several key objectives, the most significant of which include:
- Reducing corruption and ensuring greater transparency in government procurement processes.
- Mandating that all government ministries and departments conduct their purchasing activities through the GeM Portal.
Benefits of Using the GeM Portal
The GeM Portal offers numerous benefits for both buyers and sellers.
Advantages for Buyers:
- The GeM Portal ensures transparency, making it easy for buyers to understand pricing and product options.
- Buyers have access to various listings covering all types of goods and services.
- Purchasing up to Rs. 25,000 can be done directly without the need for complex processes.
- Eleven banks provide GeM Pool Accounts for financial transactions.
- For purchases exceeding Rs. 25,000 and up to Rs. 5,00,000, the L1 purchase method applies.
- The Proprietary Article Certificate allows buyers to procure specific products as per their requirements.
- Price trends and comparisons across different sellers help buyers make informed decisions.
- Immediate notifications keep buyers updated once they place orders.
- A robust integrated payment system simplifies transactions.
- User-friendly interface with easy navigation aids buyers in searching for products.
- An automated grievance system ensures that buyer complaints are addressed efficiently.
- Buyers can select delivery timelines ranging between 10 to 21 days.
- Products can be delivered within a duration of 180 days.
- Purchase Mode allows for seller selection based on PIN codes.
- Conditions for procurement can be added to the ATC library.
- Buyers have a chance to make additional deductions when processing bills.
- During technical evaluations, buyers can determine the eligibility of MSE sellers for priority purchases.
- Buyers can withdraw from contracts up to 15 days post-delivery even if an invoice has been sent.
Advantages for Sellers:
- Registration on the GeM Portal is completely free of charge for sellers.
- Sellers can access the national public procurement market effortlessly.
- Specific provisions exist forMSMEs and startups to facilitate their entry into the marketplace.
- Being an online platform, the GeM Portal minimizes paperwork and follows a contactless approach to transactions.
- Sellers can generate multiple invoices for each order.
- Non-winning bidders receive notifications explaining the reasons for non-selection.
- A centralized dashboard helps sellers track orders and payments easily.
- Business Cockpit has been enhanced with advanced parameters and widgets based on industry feedback.
- For bids, vendors from Northeastern states and J&K are exempt from ITR requirements.
- Pricing can be adjusted based on market dynamics.
- Direct interaction with government agencies enhances seller visibility and opportunities.
Documents Needed for GeM Portal Registration
To register on the GeM Portal, applicants need to provide the following documents:
- A valid identity proof such as an Aadhar card.
- A PAN card is mandatory for registration.
- Bank account details are required to utilize the services on the GeM Portal.
- A GST certificate is essential for business transactions.
- Company Information Number (CIN) for businesses.
- Registered office address proof.
- Details of the factory or warehouse.
- MSME registration certificate is required for specific sellers.
Registration Process for Sellers on the GeM Portal
Sellers looking to register must follow these steps:
- Visit the official GeM Portal website.
- Select the signup option available on the homepage.
- Choose whether you are a buyer or a seller, and proceed to the next page.
- Read the terms and conditions; a document will appear. Agree by ticking the box to proceed.
- Fill in your business type (company, firm, etc.) and provide your organization’s name before clicking ‘Next.’
- Enter your personal details, selecting either PAN or Aadhar for registration.
- Verify details and submit your application. The verification might involve an email confirmation.
- Once verified, you will successfully be registered, and an account will be created.
- Log in by visiting the homepage, enter your credentials, and continue setting up your profile, including company details and bank information.
- Sellers must link their bank accounts to the GeM Portal and deposit caution money before they can list products or services.
- Engagement in bidding and receiving orders becomes possible once registration is complete.
Registration Process for Buyers on the GeM Portal
Buyers wishing to register should follow this procedure:
- Visit the official GeM Portal website.
- Locate the signup option and select the buyer option.
- Accept the terms and conditions after reading them.
- Provide your Aadhar number and linked mobile number; an OTP will be sent for verification.
- Complete the account registration form including username, password, and email, then click “Create Account.”
- Email verification may be required afterward.
- Log in using your credentials by clicking on the login button on the homepage.
- Primary users can add secondary users by selecting “Add user” from the top right corner of the homepage.
How to Log in to the GeM Portal?
- Go to gem.gov.in.
- Click on the GEM Login button on the homepage.
- Enter your GEM User ID and the captcha code.
- After submitting, enter your personal identification number.
- Your dashboard will load, displaying all your listed products.
- You can access the GEM login procedure through this guide.
Forgot Password on GeM Portal
- If you forget your password, visit the official website promptly.
- Click the login button on the homepage.
- Select the “Forgot your password?” option.
- Enter your user ID and captcha code, then click submit.
- A password reset link will be sent to your registered email address.
- Follow the provided link to change your password securely.