<h1>Government boosts GeM access for startups, women, and marginalized groups with new features and fee reductions under public procurement rules</h1> The government has enhanced access to the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) for micro and small enterprises, startups, women entrepreneurs, and marginalized groups by introducing features such as marketplace filters to identify products from these categories, reduced vendor assessment fees, and exemption from caution money for OEMs. It has established forward market linkages through dedicated GeM outlet stores and integrated API with the Udyam MSME database for streamlined seller registration. Strategic partnerships with industry and nonprofit organizations have been formed, alongside active participation in trade events to boost seller engagement. The platform also supports compliance with public procurement policies favoring SC/ST entrepreneurs. A study conducted by IIT Delhi found that GeM promotes economic growth by reducing procurement costs, fosters inclusivity aligned with Make in India objectives, and significantly improves market access for marginalized entrepreneurs, facilitating ease of doing business.