
Welcome to
ONLiNE UPSC
The Government e-Marketplace, commonly known as GeM, is a revolutionary platform that streamlines the procurement of common-use goods and services. Established in January 2016, GeM was born out of recommendations by two Groups of Secretaries, aiming to modernize procurement practices within the government and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
GeM is a paperless, cashless, and system-driven e-marketplace that significantly minimizes human interaction during the procurement process. This innovative platform was developed with the technical expertise of the National e-Governance Division under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The primary objectives of GeM include enhancing transparency, reducing procurement timelines, and ensuring fair competition among vendors.
Over the years, GeM has proven beneficial for both buyers and sellers. Sellers on the platform have gained access to a steady stream of regular buyers and bulk orders, along with improved security measures. On the other hand, buyers have experienced reduced procurement timelines, increased transparency, and the assurance of a competitive procurement environment.
One of the notable impacts of GeM has been the significant savings achieved in procurement costs for various government agencies. By eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic procedures, the platform has fostered a more efficient procurement process.
GeM ensures quality assurance through a well-defined process for vendor and product onboarding. This rigorous process helps maintain high standards and accountability within the platform. With billions of transactions facilitated through GeM, it has become an essential tool in government procurement.
The continuous efforts of GeM include engaging with stakeholders to address challenges and enhance the platform's functionality. By focusing on user feedback and technological advancements, GeM aims to further improve its services, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of government procurement.
Q1. What is the primary purpose of the GeM platform?
Answer: The GeM platform aims to modernize government procurement by facilitating a paperless, cashless, and efficient e-marketplace for goods and services.
Q2. How does GeM enhance transparency in procurement?
Answer: GeM enhances transparency by providing real-time access to procurement information, allowing buyers to compare vendors and ensuring fair competition.
Q3. What benefits do sellers gain from using GeM?
Answer: Sellers benefit from regular buyer access, bulk order opportunities, and improved security features, making the procurement process more profitable for them.
Q4. How does GeM contribute to cost savings for government agencies?
Answer: By streamlining procurement processes and reducing bureaucratic delays, GeM enables government agencies to achieve significant cost savings in their purchases.
Q5. What role does vendor onboarding play in GeM's effectiveness?
Answer: Vendor onboarding ensures quality assurance and accountability, maintaining high standards for products and services available on the GeM platform.
Question 1: When was the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) established?
A) January 2015
B) January 2016
C) January 2017
D) January 2018
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which division provided technical support for GeM's development?
A) Ministry of Commerce
B) National e-Governance Division
C) Ministry of Finance
D) Ministry of Home Affairs
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is a significant benefit of GeM for buyers?
A) Increased bureaucracy
B) Reduced procurement timelines
C) Higher costs
D) Limited vendor options
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How does GeM ensure quality in its offerings?
A) By random selection
B) Through a defined vendor onboarding process
C) By allowing any vendor
D) Through manual checks
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is one of the main goals of GeM?
A) Increase cash transactions
B) Reduce human interaction
C) Promote private sector sales
D) Eliminate competition
Correct Answer: B
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