ONDC QR Code Will Help Small Businesses In Establishing Digital Presence: Thampy Koshy
ONDC introduces interoperable QR code, enabling sellers to connect with customers via apps like magicpin and Paytm.
The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has unveiled its innovative interoperable QR code, a tool that is expected to boost the ecommerce landscape and help small sellers across India. This initiative aims to break down digital barriers, allowing every seller, from local artisans to neighbourhood shopkeepers, to reach customers easily.
Thampy Koshy, Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ONDC introduced the QR code at the event, calling it a "transformative moment in Indian commerce." He highlighted how the interoperable QR code eliminates the challenges small businesses face in establishing a digital presence, enabling them to connect with customers just like large e-commerce giants.
"This isn't just a new feature; it's a catalyst for economic growth and digital inclusion," Koshy stated. “Millions of businesses will come online, creating new opportunities and driving India’s digital economy forward.”
Currently in its alpha phase, the QR code allows sellers to generate a unique code that customers can scan using an ONDC-registered buyer app, such as Magicpin and Paytm. This will soon expand across the entire network after initial testing. Sellers can display their QR codes on storefronts, products, marketing materials, or social media, instantly linking to their online store through the preferred buyer app.
Recently, the government announced an initiative to onboard five lakh micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to the ONDC, aiming to empower these enterprises. This aligns with ONDC’s mission to democratise digital commerce in India.
Before the introduction of ONDC’s interoperable QR code, sellers either stayed offline due to high demand generation costs or paid hefty revenue shares to platforms. The new QR code allows sellers to drive their growth affordably.
The alpha phase represents a significant shift in Indian business practices, emphasising more than just technology—it’s about transforming lives and levelling the playing field for every seller in the country.
Earlier, the government-led ONDC forged a collaboration with the online gaming platform WinZO, aiming to democratise digital commerce access and promote fair market practices. In June, MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi launched a new Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM) scheme with a budget of Rs 277.35 crore for three years (2024-27). The scheme aims to enhance ecommerce access for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) through ONDC.
The challenges faced by MSEs in accessing ecommerce, such as limited digital access, financial constraints, and lack of confidence in operating via digital platforms, will be addressed by the TEAM scheme.
