DigiReady Certification Portal
Context:
Recently, Quality Council of India and Open Network for Digital Commerce launched DigiReady Certification Portal to empower MSMEs and small retailers.
Relevance:
GS-02 (Governance)
DigiReady Certification Portal :
- Quality Council of India (QCI), in collaboration with ONDC, aims to assess and certify the digital readiness of MSME entities.
- 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.
- The DRC portal is designed to facilitate a streamlined seller journey ensuring that MSMEs and small retailers can integrate seamlessly into existing digitized workflows.
- 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.
Quality Council of India :
- Quality Council of India came into existence in 1997.
- It was formed by a collaboration between DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry and the Indian industry.
- It operates as a non-profit organization under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.
- The Council is composed of 38 members representing government, industry, and consumers equally.
- The Chairman of QCI is appointed by the Prime Minister based on industry recommendations.
- QCI oversees various accreditation boards such as NABCB and NABL, ensuring quality standards across industries.
Facts for Prelims:
- According to World Bank, formal SMEs contribute up to 60% of total employment and up to 40% of national income (GDP) in emerging economies.
- Udyami Mitra Portal: It is launched by SIDBI to improve accessibility of credit and handholding services to
- Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme: A credit linked subsidy program under Ministry of MSME.
- A Scheme for Promoting Innovation, Rural Industry & Entrepreneurship (ASPIRE): Creates new jobs & reduce unemployment, promotes entrepreneurship culture, facilitates innovative business solution etc.
- National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme (NMCP): to develop global competitiveness among Indian MSMEs by improving their processes, designs, technology and market access.
- Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS): It is operational for upgradation of technology for MSMEs.
