Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has revolutionized public procurement in India, offering a transparent and efficient digital platform for suppliers and service providers to work with government departments. One of the core features of GeM is the GeM Tender process, where registered sellers can participate in competitive bidding to win contracts.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about GeM Tenders in 2025 - including the types of tenders, eligibility, bid submission process, documentation, pricing strategies, and expert tips to improve your success rate.
What are GeM Tenders?
GeM Tenders refer to bidding opportunities published on the Government e-Marketplace by central and state government departments, PSUs, autonomous bodies, and other public entities. Unlike direct purchases, tenders are used when the procurement value is high or when a competitive bid is preferred.
There are two primary forms of procurement on GeM:
- Direct Purchase/BOQ Orders
- GeM Bids (Tenders) – Bids & Reverse Auctions
Tenders on GeM are typically issued in the form of:
- Bids (Bid No.)
- Bid cum Reverse Auctions (RA)
- Custom Bid Requests
- BOQ-based Tenders
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Who Can Participate in GeM Tenders?
To participate in GeM Tenders, a business must be a registered seller or service provider on the GeM portal. Here’s what you need:
Eligibility Criteria:
- A valid GeM Seller ID
- Registered business entity (Proprietorship, Partnership, Pvt Ltd, etc.)
- PAN and GST registration (as applicable)
- Required product or service listed in your GeM catalog
- Compliance with technical specifications and quality certifications (if required)
- Active bank account with proper KYC
Types of GeM Tenders
GeM has structured its tendering process into several formats, depending on the nature of procurement:
1. Standard Bids
These are straightforward tender notices with product/service specifications. Suppliers submit their offers before the bid deadline.
2. Custom Bids
These tenders allow buyers to upload custom technical and financial requirements beyond standard catalog items.
3. BOQ-based Bids
BOQ (Bill of Quantities) tenders allow multiple items or quantities to be bundled together for bidding.
4. Reverse Auctions
After initial bids, shortlisted sellers participate in a live auction to lower the price in real-time.
GeM Tender Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: GeM Seller Registration
Register your business on https://gem.gov.in as a seller with all required documentation and service/product listings.
Step 2: Monitor Active Tenders
Once registered, you can:
- Access “Bids” section under your dashboard.
- Set up filters by location, department, category, value, etc.
- Use keywords to search GeM Tenders relevant to your offerings.
Step 3: Study the Bid Document
Each tender comes with a Bid Document PDF. It includes:
- Technical specifications
- Delivery timelines
- Qualification criteria
- Payment terms
- Evaluation methodology
Step 4: Prepare Documents
Typically required documents include:
- Technical brochures/specs
- Company profile
- Experience certificates
- PAN, GST, and MSME certificates
- Performance security (if applicable)
Step 5: Submit Bid Online
You need to submit:
- Technical Offer: Compliance sheet, experience, certifications.
- Financial Offer: Quoted price per item/unit (excluding taxes).
Step 6: Evaluation and Reverse Auction
If technical evaluation is successful:
- You may enter the Reverse Auction phase
- Compete in a live bidding session to quote the lowest price
Step 7: Order Issuance
Winning bidder receives:
- GeM Contract
- Email intimation
- GeM dashboard update with order details
How to Find GeM Tenders Relevant to You
Here are some effective strategies:
- Use the Bid Search feature on GeM dashboard
- Filter by product/service categories (HSN/SAC codes)
- Subscribe to bid alerts via GeM or third-party platforms
- Use keyword-based search: e.g., "Computer AMC", "office furniture", "printing services", etc.
Benefits of Participating in GeM Tenders
- Equal Opportunity: MSMEs, startups, and large firms compete equally
- Transparency: Real-time bidding and reverse auctions
- Timely Payments: Government-backed order processing
- Zero Middlemen: Direct access to buyers
- Wide Visibility: Access to buyers across 7000+ government organizations
Top Categories for GeM Tenders in 2025
Some of the most active categories on GeM for tenders are:
- Office Furniture
- Computers and Peripherals
- Printing and Stationery Services
- Civil and Electrical Maintenance
- Security and Manpower Services
- Laboratory Equipment
- Medical Supplies
- Transportation and Logistics
Tips to Win GeM Tenders
- Complete Your Profile: Ensure all KYC documents, service details, and product specs are updated.
- Offer Competitive Pricing: Evaluate market rates and reduce margins where feasible.
- Use DPIIT/MSME Benefits: Get exemptions for EMD, turnover, and past experience if eligible.
- Follow Technical Specs: Non-compliance leads to disqualification.
- Prepare for Reverse Auction: Have a clear minimum quote threshold to remain profitable.
- Stay Active: Regularly monitor new tenders to avoid missing opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incorrect or expired documents
- Overquoting prices without market analysis
- Ignoring clarification notices from buyers
- Missing submission deadlines
- Neglecting reverse auction participation
How Startups Can Benefit from GeM Tenders
If you're a DPIIT-recognized startup, GeM offers:
- Startup Runway: Special listing feature for startups
- Relaxed eligibility criteria in some tenders
Ensure your Startup Certificate is linked to GeM for full benefits.
FAQs on GeM Tenders
Q1. Is it free to bid on GeM tenders? Yes, bidding is free. However, GeM charges a transaction fee on successful orders.
Q2. Can I bid without MSME registration? Yes, but MSME holders often get exemption from EMD and turnover conditions.
Q3. How to track bid status? Log in to GeM, go to your dashboard > Bidz then select participated in bid filter.
Q4. Can I withdraw a bid? You can modify or withdraw your bid before the closing date.
Conclusion
The GeM Tender ecosystem in 2025 is full of opportunities for businesses looking to grow through government contracts. With its digital-first approach, minimal barriers, and transparent bidding process, GeM enables fair competition and access to thousands of procurement needs across India.
If you're a seller looking to expand your business into government procurement, GeM Tenders are your gateway to sustained growth and credibility.