Chhattisgarh has received the GeM Sustainable Procurement Award for its efforts to strengthen transparent, technology-driven government procurement through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
The award was presented during GeM’s 10th Foundation Day celebrations in New Delhi, recognising the state’s growing adoption of the digital procurement platform and its efforts to improve efficiency and transparency in public purchasing.
GeM Procurement Crosses ₹3,935 Crore
Chhattisgarh’s procurement through GeM more than doubled during FY 2025-26, reaching ₹3,935 crore.
According to the state government, procurement through the platform increased by 113% compared with the previous financial year, with government departments, corporations and local bodies increasingly using GeM for their purchases.
The platform has enabled departments to use digital price discovery, competitive bidding and an auditable transaction process.
Piyush Goyal Presents the Award
The award was conferred under the Premier Awards in the State Government Felicitation category for Chhattisgarh’s sustained efforts towards increasing GeM adoption and procurement.
The ceremony was held under the theme “GeM 10: A Decade of Exponential Possibilities” in the presence of Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and senior government representatives.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the officers and employees associated with the achievement, saying the recognition reflects the state’s focus on transparency, accountability and efficient utilisation of public funds.
GeM Bidding Helps Save ₹130 Crore
The state government said competitive bidding through GeM resulted in ₹130 crore in savings during FY 2025-26.
Over the last three financial years, Chhattisgarh has recorded cumulative savings of ₹235 crore through competitive bidding on the platform.
According to the government, open bidding, standardised specifications and digital records have helped departments compare prices and select suppliers through a more structured process.
The state is also reviewing procurement procedures and tender specifications to encourage wider competition while maintaining quality standards.
MSE Procurement Reaches ₹1,800 Crore
The increased use of GeM has also expanded opportunities for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).
Procurement from MSEs increased by 61% to ₹1,800 crore in FY 2025-26, surpassing the mandated 25% procurement target.
The digital marketplace allows smaller businesses to participate directly in government demand, giving them access to a wider customer base without relying heavily on intermediaries.
Women Entrepreneurs and Startups See Growth
Chhattisgarh also recorded strong growth in procurement from women entrepreneurs, SC/ST-owned enterprises and startups during the financial year.
Procurement from:
- Women entrepreneurs increased by 97%
- SC/ST entrepreneurs increased by 108%
- Startups increased by 178%
The rise indicates growing participation by emerging businesses in government procurement through the digital platform.
Rajat Kumar Highlights GeM’s Role
Rajat Kumar, Secretary, Department of Commerce and Industries, said GeM has created a direct channel for businesses across the state to access government demand.
He highlighted the platform’s role in providing a common marketplace where supplier capabilities and competitiveness can influence procurement opportunities.
Focus on Technology-Led Governance
The state government said the award is part of its wider effort to use technology to simplify administrative processes, strengthen accountability and improve the utilisation of public resources.
Chhattisgarh plans to further expand GeM adoption across government departments and institutions while encouraging greater participation from MSMEs, startups, women entrepreneurs and local businesses.
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The state believes that higher digital procurement, greater savings and broader participation of emerging enterprises can help make public procurement more transparent while creating additional economic opportunities.