ONDC Wins Gold for Emerging Tech in e-Governance

The government-supported Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) won the gold award for using emerging technologies in e-governance. Aiming to foster open e-commerce, it helps small retailers grow and diminishes the stronghold of industry giants. Over 6 lakh sellers are now part of ONDC, processing 12 million orders monthly across various sectors.

The government-backed Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) received the gold award for the application of emerging technologies on Tuesday. The initiative, spearheaded by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), seeks to create an open platform for all facets of e-commerce, providing an avenue for small retailers to broaden their business reach and reduce the influence of large industry players.

Currently, the network supports over 12 million orders per month, spanning categories from fashion and electronics to ride-hailing and metro ticketing services. More than 6 lakh sellers across India are now integrated into the ONDC.

In Mumbai, Sanjiv, Joint Secretary in the DPIIT, and other department officials accepted the gold award under the category 'Application of Emerging Technologies for Providing Citizen-Centric Services' during the National Awards for e-Governance (NAeG). The awards, organised by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), are among the most prestigious recognitions in digital governance in India.

The commerce ministry highlighted that the aim of the award is to honor and foster excellence in e-Governance initiatives while encouraging innovation in successful e-Governance solutions. ONDC continues to empower a wide spectrum of sellers, from small businesses and artisans to women entrepreneurs, farmers, and street vendors, enabling them to compete more effectively and reach a broader audience.

(With inputs from agencies.)