The Chhattisgarh government has decided to revert to the Central Government’s e-Market (GeM) portal for procurement of goods and services. This decision overturns the previous government's practice of using the state government’s e-portal, implemented during the Congress-led administration.
In 2016, under the BJP government led by Raman Singh, all state departments were instructed to use the GeM portal for procurement, following its launch by the Central government.
However, in 2019, after the Congress came to power and Bhupesh Baghel became Chief Minister, the state government introduced its own e-portal, E-Marketing Network of Chhattisgarh (e-ManeC), and ceased using the GeM portal.
Recently, the Vishnu Deo Sai Cabinet decided to amend the Chhattisgarh Government Store Purchase Rules, 2002 (revised in 2022), to mandate that all state departments procure materials, goods, and services from the GeM portal following the established procedures. Any additional procurement requirements will require the Finance Department's consent.
Move aims to ensure a transparent procurement process: Govt
A state government spokesperson explained that the previous administration's prohibition of purchases from the GeM portal led to procurement challenges, compromised quality, and increased corruption allegations. The spokesperson emphasized that this move aims to ensure a transparent procurement process, marking a step towards good governance.
Existing rate contracts to be cancelled
The state Cabinet also decided to cancel existing rate contracts by the end of the month to prevent corruption. Officials said that the rate contract system restricted competitive bidding, resulting in monopolies for contracted firms. Many of these suppliers were not manufacturers but middlemen sourcing items from other vendors.
Local suppliers express concerns
uring the operation of the eManeC portal, 44,245 orders valued at approximately Rs 3442.074 crore were processed. The forest department placed the highest number of orders, followed by the education, and panchayat and rural development departments. However, some suppliers involved in the rate contract system expressed concerns that shifting to the GeM portal would disadvantage local manufacturers.
Officials reassured that the GeM portal includes clauses to protect local manufacturers and suppliers' interests, addressing concerns about potential neglect of local businesses.
No comments:
Post a Comment