Govt e-Marketplace launches 170 new seed categories to enhance access for farmers

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has launched 170 new seed categories on its portal to improve access to quality agricultural and horticultural seeds. This initiative, developed before the upcoming cropping season, includes nearly 8,000 seed varieties available for procurement by Central and State Public Sector Units (PSUs) and other governing bodies for distribution nationwide.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, these categories were created following consultations with stakeholders such as state seed corporations and research institutions. They provide a comprehensive framework for seed procurement, aligning with the current rules and regulations set by the Government of India and incorporating essential parameters to streamline the procurement process for authorities.

Introducing these new categories is part of GeM’s broader strategy to encourage category-based procurement through the portal. This approach aims to enhance efficiency, reduce the time involved in tendering processes, foster transparency and accountability in government procurement, and promote greater seller participation nationwide.

Roli Khare, Deputy CEO of GeM, stated, “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.”