November 11, 2024
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman explained that government-backed networks provide access to banking, health, marketing, education, and payments
This model contrasts with many countries where private networks charge users for access to digital markets
Sitharaman highlighted the reach of India’s digital revolution, noting small businesses and NGOs now receive global orders
The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) further enables businesses to connect in a common, accessible platform
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said India’s approach to building its digital infrastructure with public funds has fostered small business growth. She emphasised that unlike many countries relying on private platforms, India’s government-backed digital network ensures broad access without user fees, benefiting even the smallest businesses.
The Finance Minister underscored the variety of sectors empowered by this public infrastructure, noting it supports functions from banking and health to marketing, payments, and education. “This infrastructure allows even micro-level users to access services without incurring charges,” she said, adding that India’s approach enables small businesses to reach markets beyond their localities, fostering growth and expanding opportunities.
Citing an example from her recent visit to Nagaland, Sitharaman shared how NGOs in the region now receive orders from the United States, showing how digital connectivity has bridged physical and economic distances. She also highlighted the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) initiative, which creates a unified digital commerce platform for businesses of all sizes, contributing to a thriving e-commerce ecosystem.
“Digital and financial inclusion are progressing so well that people no longer wait for someone to guide them; the system is accessible, user-friendly, and readily available on their phones,” Sitharaman added, expressing the need to update these technologies to maintain their relevance continually.
Source: Economic Times