New Delhi: To streamline access to quality agricultural and horticultural seeds, the Government e Marketplace (GeM) has introduced 170 revamped seed categories on its portal. This initiative, launched ahead of the upcoming cropping season, includes nearly 8,000 seed varieties that Central and State Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and other governing bodies can procure for distribution across the country.
The updated seed categories were developed in consultation with key stakeholders, including state seed corporations and research institutions, to create a comprehensive framework for seed procurement. The categories incorporate the existing rules and regulations of the Government of India and necessary parameters, simplifying the process for procurement authorities.
This rollout is part of GeM’s broader strategy to promote category-based procurement on its platform. By focusing on specific categories, GeM aims to enhance the efficiency of the procurement process, minimize the time spent on tendering, and boost transparency and accountability. The initiative is also designed to encourage wider participation from sellers across the country, ensuring a broader marketplace for quality seeds.
“We invite sellers to leverage these new seed categories and list their offerings to participate freely in government tenders. We also encourage seed corporations and state bodies to utilize these new categories for cost-effective procurement of quality seeds,” said Roli Khare, Deputy CEO of GeM.