GeM and UN Women sign MoU to Boost Participation of Women Entrepreneurs in Public Procurement

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UN Women to enhance the participation of women entrepreneurs in public procurement. This collaboration is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 2 and 3, as it relates to gender equality and economic development. Last Updated: 2025-11-24

Key Facts About GeM and UN Women's MoU

• GeM signed an MoU with UN Women to boost women entrepreneurs' participation in public procurement.
• The initiative aims to enhance gender-responsive procurement.
• Focus on increasing sourcing from women-led businesses.
• Part of GeM’s Womaniya initiative.
• MoU signed by Smt. Kanta Singh and Shri Ajit B. Chavan.
• Emphasis on empowering women entrepreneurs through public procurement.
• GeM is a national public procurement portal for government entities.
• Women entrepreneurs can sell products directly to government buyers.
• GeM has established categories for various products including handicrafts and organic foods.
• UN Women will design training materials and share best practices.
• Support for MSME Udyam registration and mobilization of women trainers.
• GeM will conduct training programs and sensitize government buyers.
• Workshops and vernacular training materials will be developed by GeM.
• Collaboration aims to strengthen market linkages and promote gender equality.
• Signing ceremony attended by various officials and trade associations.
• Supports Sustainable Development Goal 5 for gender equality.

India's Commitment to Gender Equality in Economic Participation

This MoU is a significant step towards achieving gender equality in economic participation, aligning with India's broader strategic goals. By empowering women entrepreneurs, India aims to enhance its economic growth and social development. The initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal 5, focusing on gender equality, and positions India as a leader in gender-responsive procurement on the international stage.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Womaniya Initiative: Aims to promote women entrepreneurs on the GeM platform.
• MSME Udyam Registration: Facilitates the registration of micro, small, and medium enterprises.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice - Gender equality and women's empowerment.
• GS Paper 3: Economic Development - Public procurement and MSMEs.
• Prelims: Questions on GeM, UN Women, and gender-responsive procurement.
• Mains: Analytical themes on gender equality in economic participation and public procurement policies.
• Essay Paper: Topics on gender equality and economic empowerment.

FAQ Section

• What is the GeM and UN Women's MoU?
  The MoU between GeM and UN Women aims to enhance the participation of women entrepreneurs in public procurement, promoting gender-responsive procurement through the Womaniya initiative.
• Why is this MoU important?
  This collaboration is crucial for empowering women entrepreneurs, aligning with India's goals for gender equality and economic growth, and supporting Sustainable Development Goal 5.
• What are the key features of this initiative?
  Key features include training programs, support for MSME registration, development of best practices, and sensitization of government buyers to promote gender equality in procurement.