The Indian food delivery market has long been dominated by two major players, Swiggy and Zomato, both of which offer a range of deals and discounts to attract customers. However, a new platform called the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), developed by the Indian government, has emerged as a serious competitor to these established players. Here’s everything you need to know about ONDC, and how you can use it to order food and other essentials.
What is ONDC?
Launched in September 2022, ONDC is a platform that enables restaurants to sell food directly to consumers, without the need for intermediaries. In addition to food delivery, the platform also facilitates the sale and delivery of groceries, home decor, cleaning essentials, and more. ONDC has several partners, including Paytm, Meesho, Mystore, Craftsvilla, and others.
Is ONDC Cheaper Than Swiggy and Zomato?
While both Swiggy and Zomato offer discounts and free deliveries to customers, ONDC offers even lower prices for many food items. For instance, four burgers and four fries cost Rs. 639 on ONDC, compared to Rs. 768 and Rs. 702 on Swiggy and Zomato, respectively. In April 2023, ONDC announced a promotion that offered free delivery and a Rs. 50 discount to users who entered the code ONDC50 at checkout. Although ONDC’s partner restaurants are currently limited, the platform’s affordability and growing popularity make it a worthwhile alternative to consider.
How to Use ONDC?
If you are a Paytm user, accessing ONDC is a breeze. Simply open the Paytm app on your device and search for ONDC. You’ll be presented with a variety of options, including food stores and grocery delivery. To order food from a restaurant, head to the ONDC Food section and select the restaurant from which you wish to order. It should be noted that not all restaurants are currently offering food through ONDC, but this is likely to change as the platform grows in popularity.
In conclusion, ONDC is a promising new platform that is set to disrupt the Indian food delivery market. Its direct-to-consumer model allows for lower prices and greater flexibility for both restaurants and consumers. By using ONDC through Paytm, customers can access a variety of restaurants and essential goods, and potentially save money in the process. As more restaurants and partners join ONDC, it is likely to become an increasingly viable alternative to Swiggy and Zomato.
