How To Use ONDC, The Food Delivery App Going Viral For Cheaper Rates Than Swiggy And Zomato?

In a world that is constantly redefining its food consumption behavior, online food delivery apps like Swiggy and Zomato have proved to be game-changers. But with the rapidly expanding space, the Indian government too, wants a slice of the cake with its own platform, Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). 

Started around September 2022, ONDC’s recent rise to fame has been due to the platform reportedly surpassing 10,000 daily order(s) mark. Interestingly, several users who used ONDC also took screenshots, comparing the prices with Swiggy and Zomato, which turned out to be cheaper in several reported cases.

Since the government-backed ONDC is gaining popularity in the Swiggy, Zomato world, let’s take a look and understand what exactly it is. 

What Is ONDC?

Powered by the Government of India, ONDC is an initiative that allows restaurants to sell their goods and services (food in this case) directly to consumers. However, the restaurants are just one aspect of it. As per PIB, it is an initiative aimed at promoting open networks for all aspects of exchange of goods and services (even restaurants) over digital or electronic networks. 

As several private players enter the e-Commerce space, ONDC becomes a government-backed initiative that aims to make e-Commerce more accessible and affordable for users. The open specifications and open network protocols have been conceptualised in such a way that make it independent of any specific platform(s). 

Is ONDC Better Than Swiggy, Zomato?

Both business and customer dynamics of ONDC are reportedly competing effectively with Swiggy and Zomato in the context of online food delivery business. As reported by users, for ordering food online, ONDC is proving to be cheaper when compared with Swiggy and Zomato. For instance, an order that costs around Rs 150 on ONDC, may range around Rs 200-215 on the other two platforms. (Please note that the costs are only indicative and have been taken only for explanation purposes. The actual costs may vary, depending on a host of factors.)

While we don’t know if ONDC can take on Swiggy and Zomato, it surely is gaining popularity in a price-sensitive market like India. 

How And Where To Use ONDC?

To use ONDC, one needs to access the UPI platform Paytm. For this, one needs to simply type ONDC in the search bar and then choose the purpose of using ONDC in order to complete the action they have initiated. 

For those wondering how to order food via ONDC, please note that for starters, one will have to type ONDC Food on Paytm. Now, one can easily check out the cuisine one wishes to order, choose the restaurant and place the order. It must also be noted that since ONDC is relatively new, many restaurants are still not available on it. However, the scope is expansive.