ONDC Launches Interoperable QR Code

Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has launched interoperable QR code to empower every seller, from local artisans to neighborhood shopkeepers.

ONDC’s interoperable QR code, which is currently in its alpha phase, allows sellers to generate a unique QR code that customers can scan using an ONDC-registered buyer app, starting with magicpin and Paytm, and soon expanding across the entire network after initial testing.

“ONDC’s interoperable QR code breaks down the barriers that have held small businesses back. Now, every seller has the power to reach customers digitally, just like the ecommerce giants. It’s a massive leap towards an open, inclusive, and democratised digital marketplace,” said T Koshy, MD and CEO of ONDC.

Sellers can display their QR codes anywhere—on storefronts, products, marketing materials, or social media—allowing them to connect with customers both offline and online. Consumers can simply scan the code with any QR scanner app or ONDC Buyer Apps, such as Paytm and magicpin, to be linked directly to the seller’s online store through their preferred buyer app.

“This isn’t just a new feature; it’s a catalyst for economic growth and digital inclusion. Millions of businesses will come online, creating new opportunities and driving India’s digital economy forward,” Koshy added.

Launched in 2021, ONDC is an initiative by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. It aims to promote open networks for the exchange of goods and services over digital or electronic networks. ONDC is a Digital Public Infrastructure based on a network model, rather than an app or platform.

ONDC is an open-source platform designed to democratise ecommerce in India and bring small businesses online. As a private non-profit initiative supported by DPIIT, ONDC strives to make ecommerce more accessible across the country. Companies such as Delhivery, Paytm, PhonePe, Uber, IDFC Bank, Kotak, Shiprocket, Dunzo, and Tata Neu have integrated their services with ONDC.

Recently, the government informed the Parliament that the ONDC now has more than 5.7 Lakh sellers and service providers on the platform.

In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State (MoS) for Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada said that ONDC has 71 seller applications, 22 buyer applications, and 16 logistics service providers and there are a total of over 5.7 Lakh sellers and service providers on the network.