**GeM (Government e-Marketplace) Portal: Key Changes in 2026 (up to June 2026)**

 **GeM (Government e-Marketplace) Portal: Key Changes in 2026 (up to June 2026)** regarding products, services, manpower, and L1-related processes.

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GeM is India's national procurement platform for government buyers. In 2026, it has seen ongoing updates for transparency, MSME support, digital features, expanded categories, and refined bidding rules. Procurement volume continues to grow significantly (already crossing high figures in FY26). Changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, focusing on compliance, new green/tech categories, and streamlining.

### 1. Products: New Categories, Listing & Procurement Rules

- **New/Expanded Categories (2026)**: Significant additions to support government priorities like sustainability and tech:

  - EV (Electric Vehicles) products, charging equipment, batteries, and related maintenance.

  - Solar energy products (panels, inverters, installation).

  - Green building materials and eco-friendly/recycled products (with procurement preferences).

  - Digital health devices, telemedicine tools.

  - Cybersecurity-related hardware/software.

  - Drones and related equipment for various uses.

- **Direct Purchase Limits**: Reduced/updated to **₹25,000** per transaction (buyers can order directly from catalogues without bidding). For higher values (typically ₹25k–₹5L or up to ₹10L in some contexts), **L1 comparison** is required. Accurate listings (titles, specs, images, pricing, delivery) are crucial for winning direct/L1 orders.

- **Quality & Compliance**: Stricter enforcement of BIS/IS certifications, FSSAI, etc. Non-compliant listings risk removal. OEM authorization letters must be detailed and valid.

- **Technical Features**: New seller dashboard tools for bulk catalogue updates, performance analytics (win rates, etc.), real-time tracking, and compliance alerts. Mobile app improvements for order management.

- **Other**: Enhanced integration with PFMS for faster payments (target ~30 days). More emphasis on vendor assessment and ratings.

### 2. Services: Expansions and Specific Updates

- **New/Emerging Service Categories**: Similar push toward modern needs:

  - Cybersecurity (VAPT, audits).

  - AI/ML and data analytics services.

  - Drone services.

  - Digital health and telemedicine.

  - EV/solar maintenance.

  - Revenue-based or outcome-based services in various domains.

- **Trending Services** (as visible on portal): Manpower outsourcing (minimum wage/fixed remuneration), security manpower (Version 2.0), cleaning/sanitation, vehicle/cab hiring, printing, repair/overhauling, catering, goods transport, warehousing, etc. Custom bids remain key for specialized needs.

- **Procurement Methods**: Direct for low value; L1, BOQ, Reverse Auction (RA mandatory above certain thresholds like ₹10L in many cases), and Custom Bids. Rate Contracts (RC) promoted for recurring needs.

- **Buyer Tools**: New **Buyer Assistant Role** (introduced ~Feb 2026) to help with Direct Purchase, L1, bid drafting, and evaluation.

### 3. Manpower Services

Manpower outsourcing (skilled/unskilled, minimum wage, fixed remuneration) and security services remain major categories on GeM, with dedicated versions (e.g., Security Manpower Service Version 2.0).

- **Changes/Notes in 2026**:

  - Standard bidding via L1 or custom bids. Tenders often specify requirements like ITI qualifications, experience, and allow for adjustments (e.g., agencies must add/reduce manpower as needed).

  - Compliance with labor laws, minimum wages, and DGR empanelment (for security) emphasized.

  - Outcome-based or fixed-remuneration options available.

  - No major structural overhaul specific to manpower, but benefits from overall platform updates (e.g., better tracking, MSME preferences, faster payments). Many government entities (ministries, institutes) continue issuing GeM bids for watch & ward, outsourcing, etc.

Sellers in this category need strong compliance (licenses, EPF/ESIC, etc.) and competitive pricing to win L1.

### 4. L1 Comparison & Related Processes

**L1 (Lowest Bidder)** remains central for most competitive procurements.

- **L1 Matching for MSMEs**: Still active and clarified/expanded in some categories. Registered MSMEs (Udyam) can match the lowest non-MSME bid for preference. Udyam registration is now **effectively mandatory** for these benefits, EMD waivers, etc. Name matching and validity are strictly checked.

- **L1 Purchase Process**: For values above direct limit (e.g., >₹50k up to ₹10L in many cases), buyers compare at least 3 sellers/OEMs. System helps identify L1 based on price + specs. Sellers can prepare/share comparison links.

- **New/Updated Features**:

  - **Price Negotiation with L1**: Buyers can negotiate with the lowest bidder (products & services) with Competent Authority approval, per GFR/CVC guidelines. Online negotiation tool available.

  - **Multiple L1 Handling**: "Run L1 Selection" feature randomly picks one if ties; auto re-run if no response within 72 hours.

  - Reverse Auction thresholds raised in some cases; more use of BOQ/RA for larger bids.

  - Enhanced L1 comparison tools and dashboards.

- **Direct vs L1 vs Bid**: Direct (low value, no bid); L1 comparison (mid-value); Full bids/RA for high value.

**Udyam/MSME Benefits**: Key for L1 preference, EMD waiver. Caution money slabs revised (exemptions for MSMEs).

### Other Notable Platform-Wide Changes (2026)

- **Registration**: Stronger Aadhaar OTP linkage, revised caution money (₹5k–₹25k based on turnover; MSME exemptions).

- **Payments & Fulfillment**: Better PFMS integration, automated penalties for delays (e.g., 0.5%/week), stricter timelines.

- **GeM 2.0 Mentions**: Ongoing enhancements for features, transparency, and MSE participation (e.g., summits, onboarding drives).

- **Global Tender Enquiry (GTE)**: Expanded access for research/scientific institutions (up to ₹200 Cr in some cases), with some non-GeM options for specialized items.

- **Overall**: More buyer training, focus on startups/MSEs/women entrepreneurs, and data transparency.

**Advice**: Always check the official GeM portal (gem.gov.in) for the latest notifications, as policies evolve. For sellers, maintain updated Udyam, certifications, competitive pricing, and good ratings. Consult official sources or authorized facilitators for compliance.

This covers the major documented changes up to mid-2026 based on available updates. 

Specific tenders may have additional nuances.