Exemption in GeM Vendor Assessment - Process, Fee & Guidelines

GeM stands for Government e-Marketplace, which is an Indian online platform for procurement of goods and services for government organizations.

The vendor exemption on GeM refers to a system of exemptions and waivers that allows certain categories of vendors to be exempt from certain registration and compliance requirements on the GeM platform.

These exemptions are typically given to small businesses, start-ups, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as a way to encourage their participation on the platform and to promote inclusive procurement by the government.

The exemptions may include things such as waiving the security deposit required for registration, or allowing vendors to sell certain goods or services without obtaining certain certifications.

The exact exemptions and waivers that are available can vary depending on the policies and regulations of the government agency using the GeM platform. In general, the aim is to make it as easy as possible for small businesses and MSMEs to participate in government procurement and to level the playing field with larger vendors.

Certain sellers are exempt from the vendor assessment test based on specific product categories or guidelines. Below is a list of sellers exempt from assessment:

• High Turnover Sellers: Annual turnover of Rs. 500 Cr or more in any of the last three years.
• Public Sector Units (PSUs): Central or state PSUs are automatically exempt.
• Non-Standard Products: Sellers of artwork, handicrafts, or other non-standard items.
• Government-Linked Societies: Registered societies, trusts, or bodies with government representation.
• KVIC, WDO, Coir Board, TRIFED: Sellers from these organizations.
• OEMs with BIS License: Valid for 3 years; must notify GeM of cancellations.
• OEMs with UCC: Exemption valid for the duration of the Unique Certification Code.
• CPSEs & Government Authorities: Sellers recommended for exemption by CPSEs or government departments.
• Other Sellers: Any other sellers approved by the CEO of GeM.

If you falls under the exemption category then you can follow these steps to apply for Vendor assessment exemption.

Step-1: Login to your GeM account on the portal with your username and password.

Go to "my account" tab and then click on "My ACTION".

Step-2: Now Click on "CREATE EXEMPTION REQUEST" and select the format for vendor assessment exemption which is applicable as per nature of your category and then proceed.

Step-3: Upload all the necessary documents and certificate to make an assessment exemption request and then proceed further.

Once the uploading of required documents in complete note down your GeM vendor assessment exemption request ID for tracking.

• Fully Online Assessment Process : The GeM Vendor Assessment process is completely online, ensuring a seamless experience for sellers.
• Assessment Validity : The validity of the Vendor Assessment is 3 years from the date of completion.
• Early Assessment Option : Sellers have the flexibility to appear for the Vendor Assessment before the due date of validity.
• Non-Refundable Vendor Assessment Fee : The Vendor Assessment fee must be paid directly to RITES, and it is non-refundable.
• Contact by RITES : After completing the Vendor Assessment application, RITES will contact applicants within 15 working days.
• Mandatory Vendor Validation : Vendor validation is mandatory for all seller.