How to Register on Gem Portal

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Portal is a transformative digital platform designed to streamline public procurement in India. It enables government departments, ministries, and public sector undertakings to purchase goods and services directly from registered sellers, eliminating intermediaries and ensuring transparency, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. For businesses—especially MSMEs, startups, and individual vendors—registering on the GeM Portal is no longer optional; it is a strategic imperative to access a vast, structured, and highly competitive public procurement ecosystem.

With over 2.5 million registered buyers and more than 1.2 million sellers, GeM has become the largest B2G (business-to-government) marketplace in Asia. The portal supports over 12,000 product categories and facilitates direct bidding, dynamic pricing, and e-auctions. Registering on GeM opens doors to lucrative government contracts, enhances brand credibility, and ensures compliance with national procurement policies. This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to successfully register on the GeM Portal, along with best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Registering on the GeM Portal is a structured, multi-stage process that requires accurate documentation and adherence to procedural guidelines. Whether you are an individual vendor, a proprietorship, a partnership firm, or a registered company, the process remains largely consistent. Below is a detailed, sequential guide to help you complete registration without errors or delays.

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Before initiating the registration process, gather all necessary documents in digital format. Incomplete or unclear documentation is the leading cause of registration rejections. Ensure you have the following:

• PAN Card of the business owner or authorized signatory
• Bank Account Details with canceled cheque or bank statement (must match the business name)
• Business Registration Certificate (e.g., Udyam Registration, GST Registration, Shop & Establishment Certificate)
• Identity Proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport) of the authorized signatory
• Address Proof of the business (electricity bill, rental agreement, or property tax receipt)
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) (Class 2 or Class 3, mandatory for companies and LLPs)
• Logo (optional, but recommended for brand visibility)

Scan all documents in PDF or JPEG format, ensuring they are legible and under 2MB per file. Avoid blurry images, cropped edges, or watermarked documents.

Step 2: Visit the Official GeM Portal

Navigate to the official GeM website: https://gem.gov.in. Do not use third-party links or search engine ads claiming to assist with registration. Only the official portal ensures security and validity.

On the homepage, locate the “Sign Up” button in the top-right corner. Click it to begin the registration journey. You will be redirected to a page asking you to select your user type: “Seller” or “Buyer.” Choose “Seller” to proceed with vendor registration.

Step 3: Select Business Category

After selecting “Seller,” you will be prompted to choose your business category:

• Manufacturer
• Dealer/Reseller
• Service Provider
• Individual (for freelancers or sole proprietors)

Select the category that best matches your business model. For example, if you manufacture furniture, choose “Manufacturer.” If you resell electronics from other brands, select “Dealer/Reseller.” Accuracy here is critical, as it determines the product categories you can list later.

Step 4: Enter Basic Business Details

You will now be asked to provide foundational information about your business:

• Business Name (as registered with GST or Udyam)
• Legal Entity Type (Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Private Limited, etc.)
• Registered Address
• State and District
• PIN Code
• Mobile Number (must be active and linked to Aadhaar)
• Email Address (professional, not Gmail/Yahoo if possible)

Ensure that the business name and address exactly match your GST and Udyam registration. Any mismatch will trigger verification failure. Use a dedicated email address for GeM communications—avoid personal accounts.

Step 5: Upload Documents

Click on the “Upload Documents” section. You will see fields for each document type listed in Step 1. Upload files in the specified format:

• PAN Card: Front side only
• Bank Statement/Canceled Cheque: Must show account number, IFSC, and bank name
• Udyam Registration Certificate: Download from Udyam Registration Portal and upload
• Identity Proof: Aadhaar card (front and back if required)
• Address Proof: Must be issued in the last 3 months
• DSC: Upload the .pfx or .p12 file if applicable

Each upload is validated automatically. If a file is rejected, the system will display the reason—such as “Image too dark” or “Document expired.” Correct the issue immediately and re-upload.

Step 6: Verify Mobile and Email

After uploading documents, the system will send a One-Time Password (OTP) to your registered mobile number and email address. Enter both OTPs within 5 minutes. Failure to verify will pause the process.

If you do not receive the OTP, check your spam folder or request a resend. Ensure your mobile number is active and not blocked by any telecom provider. Use a number you can access consistently, as GeM will use it for future alerts and notifications.

Step 7: Create Login Credentials

Now, set up your login details:

• Username: Must be unique and alphanumeric (no special characters except underscore)
• Password: Minimum 8 characters, including uppercase, lowercase, number, and symbol
• Security Question and Answer: Choose a question you can remember and answer accurately

Do not reuse passwords from other platforms. GeM is a government portal handling sensitive financial and business data. Use a strong, unique password and store it securely using a password manager.

Step 8: Complete KYC Verification

GeM mandates Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for all sellers. This step involves:

• Verifying your identity through Aadhaar e-KYC (optional but recommended)
• Linking your bank account via MMID or UPI
• Confirming business ownership through document cross-checking

If you are a company or LLP, you must also provide details of directors or partners, including their PAN and Aadhaar. The system will auto-validate these details with government databases. If discrepancies arise, you will be notified with specific instructions to rectify them.

Step 9: Select Product Categories

Once KYC is complete, you will be directed to the “Product Category Selection” screen. Here, you can choose up to 10 primary categories relevant to your offerings. Use the search bar to find categories such as “Office Stationery,” “IT Hardware,” “Cleaning Services,” or “Solar Panels.”

Be specific. For example, instead of selecting “Electronics,” choose “Laptops & Notebooks” or “Printers & Scanners.” Broad categories may lead to reduced visibility in buyer searches. You can add more categories later, but starting with 5–7 precise categories improves your chances of being discovered.

Step 10: Submit for Review

After completing all sections, review your entire application. Check for:

• Correct business name and address
• Accurate document uploads
• Verified mobile and email
• Selected product categories

Click “Submit.” Your application will be routed to the GeM verification team. You will receive a confirmation message and an application ID via email and SMS.

Step 11: Monitor Application Status

Log in to your GeM account and navigate to “My Dashboard” > “Application Status.” The status will show as “Under Review.” Processing time typically ranges from 2 to 7 working days, depending on document clarity and volume of applications.

If your application is rejected, the reason will be clearly stated. Common reasons include:

• Document mismatch (e.g., business name on PAN vs. GST)
• Expired Udyam registration
• Unclear bank statement
• Missing DSC for corporate entities

Address the issue, correct the document, and resubmit. There is no fee for resubmission.

Step 12: Activate Your Seller Account

Once approved, you will receive an email titled “GeM Seller Registration Successful.” Your account will be activated within 24 hours. You can now:

• List products or services
• Set pricing and inventory
• Participate in direct purchases and e-auctions
• View buyer orders and payment status

It is recommended to complete your seller profile by adding a business logo, description, and contact details. A fully filled profile increases buyer trust and improves search ranking on the portal.

Best Practices

Registration is just the first step. To thrive on GeM, you must adopt strategic practices that enhance visibility, compliance, and sales performance. Below are industry-tested best practices for sellers on the GeM Portal.

1. Maintain Accurate and Updated Information

GeM cross-checks your data with GSTN, Udyam, and Aadhaar databases. Any change in your business address, PAN, or bank account must be updated on GeM within 7 days. Failure to do so may lead to suspension of your seller account.

2. Optimize Product Listings for Search

Buyers use keywords to find products. When listing items, use precise, standardized terminology. For example:

• Use “HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw” instead of “Printer”
• Use “100% Cotton Bed Sheet Set, 200 TC, Queen Size” instead of “Bed Sheets”

Include relevant attributes: brand, model, color, size, material, warranty, and delivery time. High-quality product images (minimum 800x800 pixels) significantly improve click-through rates.

3. Price Competitively but Sustainably

GeM uses a dynamic pricing model. Your price must be competitive with the market average, but not so low that it erodes margins. Use GeM’s “Price Comparison Tool” to analyze prices of similar products from other sellers. Avoid underbidding just to win a contract—quality and delivery reliability matter more in the long run.

4. Maintain High Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

Buyers rate sellers based on delivery time, product quality, and responsiveness. Aim for:

• On-time delivery rate above 95%
• Return/rejection rate below 2%
• Response time to buyer queries under 24 hours

High-rated sellers are prioritized in search results and recommended for future tenders.

5. Leverage GeM’s E-Auction Feature

E-auctions are highly competitive but offer high-volume sales opportunities. Participate in auctions for products you can supply in bulk. Prepare your bids in advance using historical auction data. Set a maximum bid limit based on your cost structure to avoid losses.

6. Regularly Update Inventory

Out-of-stock items that remain listed damage your credibility. Use the “Inventory Management” tool to update stock levels daily. Enable low-stock alerts to avoid overselling.

7. Use GeM’s Analytics Dashboard

Monitor your performance using the analytics tools under “Seller Dashboard.” Track metrics like views, clicks, conversion rate, and revenue. Identify top-performing products and double down on them. Analyze buyer demographics to tailor your offerings.

8. Stay Compliant with GeM Policies

Violations such as fake reviews, duplicate listings, or price manipulation can lead to permanent deactivation. Always read the latest GeM Seller Guidelines before listing new products or changing pricing.

9. Engage with Buyer Feedback

Respond professionally to all buyer reviews, whether positive or negative. A thoughtful response to a negative review demonstrates accountability and customer focus. GeM’s algorithm favors sellers who actively engage with users.

10. Join GeM Training Programs

GeM periodically conducts free online webinars and training sessions for sellers. These cover topics like advanced bidding, GST compliance on GeM, and export opportunities. Register for these sessions to stay ahead of policy changes and platform updates.

Tools and Resources

Successful registration and sustained performance on GeM require the right tools and access to authoritative resources. Below is a curated list of tools and official platforms that every seller should use.

Official GeM Resources

• GeM Portal – https://gem.gov.in – The primary platform for registration, product listing, and order management.
• GeM Seller Handbook – Downloadable PDF available on the portal’s “Help” section. Contains full policy details, compliance guidelines, and procedural flowcharts.
• GeM Knowledge Base – A searchable FAQ repository with video tutorials on registration, bidding, and dispute resolution.
• GeM Mobile App – Available on Android and iOS. Allows sellers to monitor orders, receive alerts, and update inventory on the go.

Third-Party Tools

• Udyam Registration Portal – https://udyamregistration.gov.in – Mandatory for MSMEs. Free registration with instant certificate issuance.
• GST Portal – https://www.gst.gov.in – Verify your GSTIN and download your GST certificate for GeM submission.
• India Post e-KYC – Useful for verifying identity if Aadhaar e-KYC fails.
• Google Trends – Analyze demand trends for your product category to anticipate buyer needs.
• Canva – Free tool to create professional product images and banners for your GeM listings.
• Excel/Google Sheets – Maintain a master inventory and pricing sheet to streamline product uploads.

Document Preparation Tools

• Adobe Scan – Convert physical documents into high-quality PDFs using your smartphone camera.
• Smallpdf – Compress large PDF files without losing clarity for GeM uploads.
• PDF24 Tools – Merge multiple documents (e.g., GST + Udyam) into a single file for easier upload.

Learning Platforms

• GeM Webinars – Register via the “Events” section on the portal. Sessions are recorded and archived.
• YouTube Channels – Search for “GeM Seller Tutorial” for step-by-step video guides from verified users.
• MSME DigiSaksham – A government initiative offering free digital literacy courses for small businesses, including GeM onboarding.

Real Examples

Real-world success stories illustrate how registration on GeM transforms businesses. Below are three authentic examples of sellers who leveraged the portal to scale their operations.

Example 1: A Small Manufacturer from Jaipur

Rajesh Kumar, owner of “Raj Exports,” a small manufacturer of handcrafted wooden furniture, registered on GeM in 2022. Initially skeptical, he listed 12 products, including study tables, chairs, and bookshelves. He optimized titles with keywords like “Solid Sheesham Wood Study Table, 48x24 Inches, Indian Made.”

Within 3 weeks, he won his first contract from a government school in Uttar Pradesh for 50 study tables. He delivered on time and received a 5-star rating. Over the next 6 months, he participated in 8 e-auctions and secured contracts with 17 government offices across 5 states. His monthly revenue increased from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹8.5 lakh. He now employs 15 artisans and exports to neighboring countries via GeM’s international buyer network.

Example 2: A Women-Led IT Service Provider from Bengaluru

Sneha Reddy founded “TechSage Solutions,” an IT services startup offering software training and digital literacy programs. She registered as a “Service Provider” on GeM and listed courses such as “Basic Computer Skills for Government Staff” and “Digital Literacy for Rural Health Workers.”

Her service was selected by the Ministry of Rural Development for a pan-India training initiative. She delivered 42 sessions across 14 districts in 4 months, reaching over 1,200 government employees. The contract not only generated ₹4.3 lakh in revenue but also led to partnerships with state education departments. She now has a waiting list of 23 government units requesting her services.

Example 3: An MSME Distributor from Pune

Prakash Mehta runs “Pune Office Supplies,” a distributor of stationery and office equipment. He registered on GeM and listed 87 products, from pens and notebooks to printers and air purifiers. He used GeM’s “Price Comparison Tool” to ensure his pricing was 5–8% below market average while maintaining healthy margins.

He won a bulk order from the Maharashtra State Electricity Board for 15,000 notebooks and 500 staplers. His delivery was completed 2 days ahead of schedule. He received a “Best Performer” badge on GeM, which boosted his visibility. Within a year, he became one of the top 10 stationery suppliers on the portal, with annual sales exceeding ₹1.2 crore.

FAQs

Is there a fee to register on the GeM Portal?

No, registration on the GeM Portal is completely free for all sellers. There are no hidden charges, annual fees, or subscription costs. Be cautious of third parties claiming to charge for registration—this is fraudulent.

Can I register as an individual without a business registration?

Yes, individuals can register as sellers on GeM. You must provide your PAN and Aadhaar, and select “Individual” as your legal entity type. You can sell products or services under your personal name. However, if you wish to scale, registering as a proprietorship or Udyam-registered MSME is recommended for credibility.

How long does GeM registration take?

Typically, registration takes 2 to 7 working days after submission. If your documents are clear and accurate, approval can occur within 48 hours. Delays occur when documents are unclear, mismatched, or incomplete.

Do I need a GST number to register on GeM?

Yes, GST registration is mandatory for all sellers except individuals selling goods or services under the GST exemption limit (₹20 lakh for most states). Even if you are exempt, you must declare your GST status during registration.

Can I sell services on GeM?

Yes, GeM allows service providers to register and offer services such as cleaning, security, IT support, training, logistics, and maintenance. You must select “Service Provider” during registration and provide service-specific details like SLA, duration, and pricing model.

What if my application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you will receive a detailed reason via email and in your dashboard. Common reasons include mismatched documents, expired Udyam registration, or unclear bank statements. Correct the issue and resubmit. There is no limit to the number of resubmissions.

Can I list products from multiple brands?

Yes, dealers and resellers can list products from multiple brands. However, you must provide brand authorization letters for branded goods (e.g., HP, Dell, Canon). For generic products, no authorization is required.

How do I get paid after a sale?

Payments are processed through GeM’s integrated payment gateway. Once a buyer confirms delivery and accepts the product, payment is initiated within 7–10 working days. Funds are transferred directly to your registered bank account. GeM does not hold or escrow funds.

Can foreign companies register on GeM?

Currently, only Indian entities can register as sellers on GeM. Foreign companies can participate indirectly by partnering with Indian distributors or manufacturers who are GeM-registered.

Can I update my product prices after listing?

Yes, you can update prices anytime. However, frequent price changes may affect buyer trust. It is recommended to adjust prices only when market conditions or costs change significantly. Always notify buyers of price changes if they have pending orders.

Conclusion

Registering on the GeM Portal is not merely a bureaucratic requirement—it is a gateway to national-scale growth, visibility, and financial stability for Indian businesses. The process, while structured and detail-oriented, is designed to be accessible to even the smallest of vendors. With the right preparation, attention to detail, and commitment to quality, registration becomes the foundation of a thriving government procurement business.

By following the step-by-step guide outlined here, adhering to best practices, leveraging available tools, and learning from real-world success stories, you position yourself not just as a seller on GeM—but as a trusted, reliable, and competitive partner in India’s public procurement ecosystem.

Do not delay. Complete your registration today. The next government contract could be just one login away.