The recent pronouncement of Government e Marketplace (GeM) as the winner of the Best Use of Digital Technology category at the CIPS Excellence in Procurement Awards 2021 sparks discussion. Apart from this accolade, GeM was also a finalist in two other categories – ‘Public Procurement Project of the Year’ and ‘Best Initiative to Build a Diverse Supply Base’. The awards and GeM’s commendable performance provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the significance, effectiveness, and operation of this digital platform.
The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Awards: An Overview
Also known as the CIPS Awards, this event gives a platform for procurement professionals to showcase their best work. Conducted under the patronage of The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), London, these awards are globally recognized. CIPS is a non-profit organization and professional body committed to promoting best practices in procurement and supply management. With a community spread across 150 countries, the CIPS Awards are a beacon of excellence in the procurement profession.
Understanding the Government e Marketplace
GeM stands as a comprehensive National Public Procurement Portal designed to facilitate the online procurement of common-use goods and services. It serves various government departments, organizations, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) on both the Central and State levels. For items available on GeM, its use is obligatory for procurement by Ministries and Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs).
To ensure value for money, GeM provides e-bidding and reverse e-auction tools. With more than three million products listed, the platform has conducted over Rs. 10 lakh crore worth of transactions since its inception.
Launch and Parent Organization of GeM
Launched in 2016, GeM aims to bring transparency and efficiency to government procurement. It operates under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Significance of the Government e Marketplace
GeM’s role in procurement goes beyond providing a digital platform. It brings transparency and cost-effectiveness to the otherwise complex procurement process. Additionally, it promotes India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Policy, encouraging self-reliance and facilitating the entry of small local sellers into public procurement.
Furthermore, GeM acts as an online marketplace that consolidates demand from multiple entities for similar products. Given its value proposition and significance, it’s not surprising how it bagged the Best Use of Digital Technology award at the CIPS Awards 2021.
Measuring the success and effectiveness of a digital platform like GeM is crucial for continuous improvement, and receiving awards such as the CIPS is a testament to its success and important role in procurement.
