Recently, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has commemorated six years of the SWAYATT initiative.

• About SWAYATT Initiative: Launched in 2019, with objective to invigorate participation of startups, women entrepreneurs, Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), and youth, especially those from backward sections, in public procurement.

o Key Features: Facilitates training and on boarding of last-mile sellers → Develops women entrepreneurship → Encourages participation of small-scale businesses in government procurement.

o Recent Developments: GeM signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO), representing over 9,500 women entrepreneurs.

o Impact: Women entrepreneurs constitute 8% of the total seller base on GeM.

• About Government e-Marketplace (GeM): An online market platform established in 2016 for government procurement of goods and services.

o Objective: Serves as the National Procurement Portal of India for ministries, departments, and PSUs.

o Development: Created by the Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (Ministry of Commerce & Industry) with technical support from the National e-Governance Division (MeitY).