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Para 1.10.3 - GeM Mandate | KartavyaDesk

Goods Manual

Original Rule Text

1.10.3 Government e-marketplace (GeM) GeM (Government e-Marketplace) is the ‘National Public Procurement Portal,’ serving as an end-to-end online marketplace for various entities. The Procurement of Goods and Services available on GeM (as per Rule 149 of GFR, 2017) is mandatory for Ministries/ Departments (including attached/ subordinate offices), CPSEs, autonomous bodies and local bodies. GeM facilitates the Procurement of common-use goods and services by such entities. The GeM portal aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and speed in public Procurement. Through this paperless, contactless, and cashless platform, registered government buyers can seamlessly procure goods and services from registered sellers. It is a significant step toward modernising and streamlining the procurement process in India.

What This Means

Para 1.10.3 of the Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2017, is all about the Government e-Marketplace, or GeM. Think of GeM as the government's own online shopping mall. This rule says that if you work for a government ministry, department (including offices under them), a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), an autonomous body, or even a local body, you *must* use GeM to buy common goods and services. This is based on Rule 149 of the General Financial Rules (GFR), 2017.

The main goal of GeM is to make government purchasing more efficient, transparent, and faster. It's designed to be a paperless, contactless, and cashless system. This means less paperwork, fewer in-person meetings, and easier payment methods. By using GeM, the government aims to modernize and simplify how it buys things, ensuring a fair and open process for everyone involved.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Key Points

  • •GeM is the 'National Public Procurement Portal' for government entities.
  • •Procurement of goods and services available on GeM is mandatory for specified government bodies.
  • •GeM aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and speed in public procurement.
  • •GeM is a paperless, contactless, and cashless platform.
  • •Rule 149 of GFR, 2017 mandates GeM usage.

Practical Example

The Ministry of Rural Development needs to purchase 100 new office chairs for its regional offices. According to Para 1.10.3, the procurement officer, Mr. Sharma, *must* first check if suitable chairs are available on the GeM portal. He cannot directly approach a local furniture vendor without first exploring GeM. He finds several vendors offering chairs that meet the ministry's specifications within their budget of ₹50,000.

Mr. Sharma compares the prices, reviews the vendor ratings, and selects a vendor offering high-quality chairs at a competitive price. He then places the order through the GeM portal, completing the entire procurement process online. This ensures transparency and compliance with government regulations, avoiding potential audit objections.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if the required goods/services are not available on GeM?▼
While GeM usage is mandatory for available goods and services, if a specific item isn't listed, you may follow other procurement procedures as per GFR, documenting the reason for not using GeM.
Is GeM mandatory for all types of government purchases?▼
GeM is mandatory for common-use goods and services as defined and available on the portal. For specialized or unique requirements not available on GeM, other procurement methods outlined in the GFR can be used.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with Para 1.10.3?▼
The Head of the Department (HOD) and the procurement officers are primarily responsible for ensuring compliance with this rule and all other relevant procurement guidelines.
Where can I find a list of goods and services available on GeM?▼
The GeM portal (gem.gov.in) provides a comprehensive catalog of all available goods and services. You can search and filter based on your specific requirements.
What are the benefits of using GeM for government procurement?▼
GeM offers several benefits, including increased transparency, reduced costs, faster procurement cycles, and access to a wider range of suppliers. It also promotes efficiency and accountability in government spending.

This explanation was generated with AI assistance for educational purposes. Always refer to the official gazette notification for authoritative text.

Test Your Knowledge

Question 1 of 3

According to Para 1.10.3 of the Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2017, which of the following is the primary purpose of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM)?

Related Rules

Para 9.4Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2024 - Para 9.4 - Chapter 9Para 9.5.5Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2024 - Para 9.5.5 - Chapter 9Para 1.8.2Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2024 - Para 1.8.2 - Chapter 1Para 2.2.2Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2024 - Para 2.2.2 - Chapter 2Para 2.2Manual for Procurement of Goods, 2024 - Para 2.2 - Chapter 2

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