New Features on GeM Portal That Benefit Small Sellers

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is a digital platform started by the Government of India to make public procurement easy, transparent, and fair. It allows government departments, ministries, and public sector units to purchase goods and services from registered sellers, including startups, MSMEs, and large companies. Since its launch in 2016, GeM has grown into one of the biggest e-commerce platforms for government buyers and sellers.

For small sellers, especially those who run micro, small, or medium enterprises (MSMEs), GeM Portal is a golden opportunity. It gives them access to a wide market, reduces paperwork, and ensures timely payments. In recent years, GeM has introduced several new features and updates that specifically aim to support small sellers and make their experience smooth, efficient, and profitable.

This article will explain these new features in detail, how they benefit small sellers, and what steps sellers should take to make the most of the platform.

What is GeM?

Before diving into the new features, let’s understand what GeM is.

GeM (Government e-Marketplace) is an online platform where government buyers can procure goods and services directly from registered sellers. It replaces the old, complicated tendering process with a more transparent and faster system.

Key Features of GeM:

• Easy registration for sellers and buyers
  
  

• Transparent pricing and bidding
  
  

• Access to a huge market of government departments
  
  

• Online payments and tracking
  
  

• Rating and feedback system

Why GeM is Important for Small Sellers

For small business owners, manufacturers, artisans, and service providers, GeM provides a unique platform to:

• Get direct access to government buyers
  
  

• Compete with larger businesses on equal footing
  
  

• Receive payments in a timely manner
  
  

• Reduce marketing and distribution costs
  
  

• Gain credibility by being listed as a government-approved seller

Overview of New Features on GeM That Help Small Sellers

Let’s look at the most important new features introduced by GeM in recent years that are specially designed to support small and emerging sellers:

1. GeM SAHAY (Loan Facility)
   
   

2. Startup Runway
   
   

3. GeM Outlet Stores for Local Products
   
   

4. Multiple Service Offerings
   
   

5. Dynamic Pricing and Quantity
   
   

6. OEM Panel and Brand Listing Ease
   
   

7. Enhanced User Dashboard
   
   

8. Improved Seller Rating System
   
   

9. GeM Grievance Redressal System
   
   

10. Support for Women and Tribal Entrepreneurs
    
    

11. District as a Service (DaaS)
    
    

12. Automatic Bill Generation and Online Payments
    
    

13. Customized Catalog Management
    
    

14. Ease of Registration for Unregistered Businesses

1. GeM SAHAY – Instant Working Capital Loans

One of the biggest problems small sellers face is the lack of money or working capital. To help solve this issue, GeM launched the GeM SAHAY feature.

What it offers:

• Small sellers can get instant loans based on their order history on GeM.
  
  

• No need to visit a bank or submit many documents.
  
  

• Loans are disbursed digitally within minutes using fintech technology.

Benefits:

• Helps maintain cash flow
  
  

• Enables timely delivery of goods
  
  

• Encourages sellers to take more orders

2. Startup Runway – Support for New Businesses

GeM introduced the Startup Runway program to help new and innovative businesses participate in government procurement.

What it offers:

• Special support for DPIIT-registered startups
  
  

• Exemption from average turnover and experience requirements
  
  

• Flexibility in bidding

Benefits:

• Encourages innovation
  
  

• Gives visibility to new companies
  
  

• Reduces entry barriers

3. GeM Outlet Stores for Local Products

To support the “Vocal for Local” mission, GeM launched the Outlet Stores feature.

What it offers:

• Display space for local sellers' products on the portal
  
  

• Dedicated sections for handicrafts, tribal goods, khadi, and organic products

Benefits:

• Better visibility for rural and traditional products
  
  

• Promotes local artisans and craftspeople
  
  

• Boosts regional sales

4. Multiple Service Offerings

Earlier, a seller could list only one service per listing. Now, GeM allows bundled service offerings.

What it offers:

• Sellers can list multiple related services under one listing (e.g., computer repair + AMC)
  
  

• Custom pricing for bundled services

Benefits:

• Increases the seller’s revenue potential
  
  

• Makes it easier for buyers to choose value-added services
  
  

• Saves time for both parties

5. Dynamic Pricing and Quantity

This feature allows sellers to adjust prices and stock in real time, depending on market trends and availability.

What it offers:

• Price updates based on input costs
  
  

• Easy inventory updates

Benefits:

• Reduces the risk of loss due to price fluctuations
  
  

• Allows sellers to stay competitive
  
  

• Prevents order cancellation due to stockouts

6. OEM Panel and Brand Listing Ease

GeM has improved the process for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and brand owners.

What it offers:

• Easy brand approval
  
  

• Special OEM panel to control product listing
  
  

• Faster verification

Benefits:

• Prevents duplicate or fake listings
  
  

• Builds brand credibility