Forest deptt conducts hands-on training on use of Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

SRINAGAR: A one-day hands-on training programme on the effective utilization of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform was conducted today at the Sheikhbagh Forest Complex, Lal Chowk Srinagar. The training programme was attended by officers and officials of various forest sector departments including the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA), Wildlife Protection Department, Forest Territorial department, Social Forestry Department, and the Forest Protection Force.

The primary aim of the programme was to build institutional capacity for seamless, transparent, and accountable procurement processes through the GeM platform, which is now the mandated mode for all government procurement of goods and services. The training was formally inaugurated by Irfan Rasool Wani, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, who emphasized the importance of capacity building in GeM procedures.

In his inaugural remarks, he highlighted that proper operationalization of the GeM platform is essential for ensuring compliance with procurement norms, reducing audit irregularities, and streamlining government transactions. He appreciated the diverse participation from various forest wings and noted that such initiatives will go a long way in improving administrative efficiency.

The resource team from the GeM, led by Assistant Director, delivered a comprehensive and practical presentation on the functioning of the GeM portal. The session covered key modules, best practices, Do’s and Don’ts, and common errors in procurement that often lead to audit objections. Interactive demonstrations and real-time case studies enriched the understanding of the participants.

The training programme was organised by the Wildlife Wetland Division Kashmir, in collaboration with the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) and with technical coordination from the Nodal office of GeM at Civil Secretariat, Jammu.