The Quality Council of India (QCI) and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) announced the launch of the DigiReady Certification (DRC) portal, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said on Thursday.

By leveraging this online self-assessment tool, MSMEs can evaluate their preparedness to seamlessly onboard as sellers on the ONDC platform, thereby expanding their digital capabilities and business potential, it added.

Speaking on the launch, Jaxay Shah, Chairperson, QCI, stated that “DigiReady Certification initiative is in line with our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s call to sensitize villages and promote digital transactions. It also resonates with the objectives of the recently launched FIRST (Forum for Internet Retailers, Sellers, and Traders).”

“The launch of the DRC portal marks a pivotal moment in our mission to empower MSMEs and make e-commerce more inclusive and accessible,” he added.

DRC portal is meticulously designed to facilitate a streamlined seller journey, ensuring that MSMEs and small retailers can integrate seamlessly into existing digitized workflows, the Commerce Ministry highlighted.

The certification process evaluates various aspects of digital readiness, including the presence of necessary documentation for online operations, proficiency in using software and technology, integration with existing digitized workflows, and efficient management of orders and catalogue offerings.

T Koshy, MD & CEO, ONDC remarked, “The DigiReady certification (DRC) can be a transformative leap for MSMEs, equipping them with the digital capabilities needed to navigate the evolving ecommerce business landscape.

“DRC accelerates the integration of MSMEs into the Network while also amplifying their potential to thrive in the digital economy. It’s a testament to our commitment to foster digital inclusion to enable a more robust and empowered future for everyone,” he said.

According to the information shared on the DRC portal, on scoring correctly on all vital questions, participants will be awarded an e-certificate recognising their entity as DigiReady to onboard one of the network seller partners.

Entities attempting any questions incorrectly would be directed to a hand-holding tool so that they upskill themselves on the relevant module for correctly attempting the questions.

Once entities become DigiReady and grant their consent, Seller Applications will reach out to them to facilitate onboarding onto their respective applications.

This initiative presents additional business prospects for sellers, allowing them to become integral to the digital ecosystem.