Indian Army signs first-ever Capital Procurement Contract via GeM Portal

Exam-focused facts from the 1 April 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

Indian Army executed its first capital procurement contract through Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.
Contract covers supply of 93 Telescopic Handlers under Buy (Indian) category.
Contract signed with M/s JCB India Ltd at total cost of Rs 25.90 Cr.
Procurement aims to compress timelines while maintaining procedural integrity.
Move reinforces Government’s push towards Aatmanirbharta in defence and promotes Indian industry participation.
GeM portal was developed in five months based on recommendations of a Group of Secretaries.