GeM initiatives for procurement of goods & services by Government Deptts. in view of COVID-19

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Government e-Marketplace (GeM), a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has taken a number of initiatives in the fight against COVID-19 Pandemic. GeM, which operates a dynamic, self-sustaining and user friendly portal for procurement of goods and services by Government offices, has taken steps to enable quick, efficient, transparent, and cost-effective purchases in this hour of need.

Procurement on GeM has been authorised by General Financial Rules by making necessary changes in government rules. At present, more than 7,400 products in about 150 product categories and hiring of transport service are available on GeM portal. GeM is a completely paperless, cashless, and system driven e-market place that enables procurement of common use goods and services with minimal human interface, according to a PIB release. A dedicated page for COVID 19 related categories has been created on GeM: https://gem.gov.in/covid19

Following categories have been created for medical supplies in addition to the 32 existing ones and are live on GeM: Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Sample Collection Kit; Reusable vinyl/rubber gloves (cleaning); Eye protection (visor/goggles); Disposable thermometers; Single-use towels; UV tubelight for sterilisation; Surgical Isolation Face Shield; and Medical waste incinerator.The World Bank increased procurement threshold at GeM for COVID 19 Response Project  from $ 1 Lakh to $ 1 Million.