Introduced in 2019 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the initiative simplifies the process for women entrepreneurs to enter formal markets. It offers a dedicated interface where sellers can register and list products, enabling ministries and public sector units to procure goods directly from them.
The Government e Marketplace, launched in 2016, serves as a nationwide digital procurement system for government organisations. It allows end to end online transactions, ensuring efficiency and reducing reliance on intermediaries.
Womaniya focuses on sectors where women have strong participation, including handicrafts, handloom, jute, coir and home decor. Products are organised into structured categories, making it easier for buyers to discover and source from women led enterprises.
Self help groups play an important role in this initiative, especially in rural areas. These groups bring women together for savings and income activities, contributing to financial inclusion on a large scale.
The platform also offers features such as standardised product listings, digital onboarding and time bound payment systems, which are crucial for small businesses. Training programmes and outreach activities further help women entrepreneurs build capacity and effectively use the platform.
The initiative has shown strong growth in recent years. During the financial year 2025 to 2026, over 2.1 lakh women enterprises registered on the platform, generating more than 13 lakh orders. Contracts worth over ₹28,000 crore were awarded, surpassing the government’s procurement targets for women led businesses.
By connecting women entrepreneurs directly with government demand, the initiative is strengthening their role in the formal economy and supporting inclusive growth.
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