<h1>ONDC creates open digital commerce protocol enabling cross-platform seller discovery and reducing platform dependency costs</h1> The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is transforming India's e-commerce landscape by creating an open protocol that enables interoperability between platforms rather than operating as a traditional marketplace. This decentralized network allows sellers onboarded through any ONDC-compliant application to be discoverable across all buyer applications, reducing customer acquisition costs and platform dependency. Key initiatives include the launch of 'Sahayak' WhatsApp bot in five languages expanding to 22, with 50% of TEAM scheme beneficiaries being women-led enterprises. Government partnerships through SIDBI and NABARD support Self Help Groups, while eSaras platform offers 800+ handicraft products. The network promotes competition, reduces transaction fees, and enables hyperlocal market access. Various ministries and state governments are driving adoption to empower small businesses, artisans, and suppliers through financial assistance, training programs, and multilingual support systems across India's digital commerce ecosystem.