'Womaniya' Initiative Successfully Enrolls 2.1 Lakh Women MSEs on GeM, Achieving 13.7 Lakh Orders
Synopsis
The 'Womaniya' initiative has propelled over 2.1 lakh women-led MSEs onto the Government e-Marketplace, generating 13.7 lakh orders. This program not only boosts economic participation but also empowers women entrepreneurs across various sectors.
Key Takeaways
Over 2.1 lakh women MSEs registered on GeM.
13.7 lakh orders placed through the initiative.
Contracts worth over Rs.
28,000 crore awarded to women MSEs.
5.6% of GeM's total orders were from women-led enterprises.
Focus on specific sectors such as handicrafts and home décor .
New Delhi, April 10 (NationPress) The 'Womaniya' initiative has achieved remarkable growth since its inception, with over 2.1 lakh women-led micro and small enterprises (MSEs) successfully registering on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) during FY26, resulting in 13.7 lakh orders, as reported by the government on Friday.
Women MSEs have been awarded contracts worth over Rs. 28,000 crore, reflecting a 27.60 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to an official announcement.
The beneficiaries of this program accounted for 5.6 percent of GeM’s total orders in FY26, surpassing the mandated 3 percent procurement target.
This initiative empowers women entrepreneurs and self-help groups (SHGs) to sell directly to government buyers via the GeM platform.
Its goal is to enhance the inclusion of women entrepreneurs in public procurement by offering a dedicated digital interface, easing access requirements, and establishing structured pathways for women entrepreneurs and SHGs to connect with government buyers.
The scheme encompasses specific categories such as handicrafts, handloom, jute, coir, home décor, and office furnishings for procurement.
At the local level, district administrations, enterprise support centers, and training institutions conduct onboarding drives, training sessions, and product catalog workshops to improve seller readiness.
This initiative on GeM transforms existing production capabilities into formal, sustainable enterprise participation.
According to the statement, "As more women gain visibility, enhance their skills, and connect with government buyers, Womaniya evolves into more than just a procurement initiative; it becomes a pathway to increased economic independence and broader representation, ensuring public procurement mirrors the capabilities and aspirations of women in society."
The digital onboarding process for women-led micro and small enterprises involves Udyam verification and essential documentation, while product listings adhere to standardized catalog templates with specified technical specifications to facilitate buyer evaluation.
All procurement processes, including bidding, order placement, acceptance, invoicing, and payments, are handled digitally, reducing reliance on intermediaries and promoting direct engagement between women-led enterprises and government buyers.
aar/na
Point of View
Reflecting a commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs while achieving significant procurement goals. This program not only supports economic growth but also fosters representation in public procurement.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Womaniya' initiative?
The 'Womaniya' initiative aims to empower women entrepreneurs by facilitating their participation in public procurement through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
How many women MSEs have registered under the initiative?
Over 2.1 lakh women micro and small enterprises (MSEs) have registered on the GeM platform as part of the initiative.
What is the total value of contracts awarded to women MSEs?
Women MSEs have been awarded contracts worth over Rs. 28,000 crore, marking a significant growth from the previous year.
What categories of products are included in the initiative?
The initiative covers categories such as handicrafts, handloom, jute, coir, home décor, and office furnishings.
How does the initiative benefit women entrepreneurs?
It provides a dedicated digital platform for selling to government buyers, simplifies access requirements, and enhances visibility and capacity for women entrepreneurs.
