SWAYATT Initiative – Objectives, Features & GeM Portal (Current Affairs 2026)

The SWAYATT Initiative (Startups, Women and Youth Advantage through e-Transactions) is a major government initiative aimed at increasing the participation of startups, women entrepreneurs and youth in government procurement.

This initiative operates through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), which serves as India’s national digital procurement portal. Through this platform, small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs can supply goods and services directly to government departments.

What is the SWAYATT Initiative?

The SWAYATT initiative promotes inclusive growth, entrepreneurship and digital procurement in India. It enables startups, women-led enterprises, youth entrepreneurs, micro and small enterprises (MSEs), and self-help groups to participate directly in government procurement systems.

Objectives of SWAYATT Initiative

Increase participation of startups and small businesses in government procurement.
Promote women entrepreneurship in India.
Encourage youth innovation and startup culture.
Strengthen the MSME sector.
Promote digital transactions and e-procurement.

Key Features of SWAYATT Initiative

Implemented through the GeM portal.
Encourages participation of women-led enterprises.
Supports startups and youth entrepreneurs.
Includes Self Help Groups (SHGs) and small sellers.
Promotes social inclusion in public procurement.

Challenges Addressed by SWAYATT

Access to Markets: Small enterprises can reach government buyers.
Access to Finance: Government contracts create stable revenue opportunities.
Access to Value Addition: Businesses improve services and product quality.

Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is an online procurement portal where government departments purchase goods and services from registered sellers.

India’s National Procurement Portal
Used by ministries, departments and PSUs
Provides transparent and efficient procurement
Supports MSMEs, startups and small suppliers

Development of GeM Portal

Developed by Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D)
Under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Supported by the National e-Governance Division (MeitY)

Importance of SWAYATT Initiative

Promotes entrepreneurship and innovation
Encourages women participation in business
Strengthens MSME sector
Improves transparency in government procurement
Supports Digital India and Startup India missions

MCQs for Competitive Exams

1. SWAYATT Initiative is related to:

A. Agriculture subsidies
B. Government procurement participation
C. Digital education
D. Tourism development

Answer: B

2. SWAYATT stands for:

A. Social Welfare for Youth and Women through Technology
B. Startup Women Advancement through Trade
C. Startups, Women and Youth Advantage through e-Transactions
D. Smart Women and Youth Action through Trade

Answer: C

3. SWAYATT Initiative is implemented through which platform?

A. Digital India Portal
B. Government e-Marketplace (GeM)
C. Startup India Portal
D. Make in India Portal

Answer: B

4. Which of the following groups benefits from SWAYATT?

A. Women entrepreneurs
B. Startups
C. Youth entrepreneurs
D. All of the above

Answer: D

5. GeM portal is mainly used for:

A. Government procurement of goods and services
B. Education services
C. Tourism booking
D. Banking operations

Answer: A

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