INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNO V A T ION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)

ISSN No. 2454-6194 | DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS |V o lume X Issue X October 2025

Exploring Innovative Frontiers: Digital Public Infrastructure and

Multimodal Connectivity as Catalysts for MSME Supply Chain

Transformation in India

Tushar Dhiman¹& Pankaj Madan²

¹Research Scholar & Guest Faculty, Faculty of Management Studies, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be

University) Haridwar, Uttarakhand

²Professor, Faculty of Management Studies, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University) Haridwar,

Uttarakhand

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.10100000214

Received: 10 November 2025; Accepted: 20 November 2025; Published: 26 November 2025

ABSTRACT

India’s industrial transformation is being rapidly reshaped by the rise of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI),

which integrates platforms such as ONDC, OCEN, UPI, and Gati Shakti to create transparent, inclusive, and

technology-driven ecosystems. This paper critically examines how DPI strengthens supply chain dynamics for

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), particularly women and specially-abled entrepreneurs, by

addressing challenges of digital access, financing, and multimodal connectivity. The research highlights that

while India has made significant progress in building interoperable platforms, the adoption and integration of

these systems across fragmented MSME clusters remain uneven. By synthesizing insights from existing

literature and policy reports, the paper underscores the transformative potential of ONDC in democratizing e-

commerce, OCEN in improving credit access, and Gati Shakti in enhancing logistics efficiency. The findings

suggest that DPI does not function merely as a set of technological tools but as an institutional framework that

redefines market entry, competitiveness, and resilience. However, barriers such as limited digital literacy,

infrastructural gaps in rural areas, and concerns over data security continue to constrain full-scale adoption. The

study also emphasizes the need for capacity building, robust governance frameworks, and collaborative

approaches involving policymakers, private players, and grassroots stakeholders to ensure that MSMEs can

leverage DPI effectively. Ultimately, the paper positions DPI as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable industrial

growth in India, capable of bridging structural divides while fostering innovation and competitiveness. The

discussion aligns with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, underscoring how DPI-led supply chain

transformation can accelerate India’s transition into a global economic hub.

Keywords: Digital Public Infrastructure, MSMEs, Supply Chain Transformation, ONDC, Industrial Growth.

INTRODUCTION

India stands at an inflection point in its economic and technological trajectory: rapid digitalisation is converging

with ambitious infrastructure upgrades to create new opportunities for industrial transformation and inclusive

growth. Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) long recognized as the backbone of India’s

manufacturing, employment and export performance are central to this transition. Yet many MSMEs remain

constrained by fragmented logistics, limited market access, and uneven digital readiness. Emerging paradigms

such as Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and multimodal connectivity promise to address these constraints by

weaving an interoperable layer of digital services over increasingly integrated physical transport networks,

thereby enabling MSMEs to scale, diversify, and participate more fully in domestic and global value chains

(Khimani & Singhal, 2024; Raghavan, Jain, & Varma, 2019). Digital Public Infrastructure embodied by

foundational platforms, open protocols, and interoperable public goods for payments, identity, data exchange

and commerce has transformed the shape and speed of market participation in India (Raghavan et al., 2019; Mah

Sheena K M et al., 2022). Initiatives such as India Stack, Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and

related open-architecture efforts illustrate how public digital utilities can level the playing field for small sellers,

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reduce entry barriers, and create a more competitive digital marketplace (Mah Sheena K M et al., 2022; Vijay

Kumar & Harshitha, 2023). At the same time, digital tools from cloud-based enterprise resource planning to AI-

enabled demand forecasting and blockchain-based traceability are redefining supply chain visibility,

responsiveness and trust (Pratyush Kumar Singh, 2023; Acharya, Cisneros Saldana, & Markus, 2024). The

literature documents robust gains in MSME productivity and market reach when DPI and enterprise-level digital

capabilities are present, but it also highlights uneven adoption and capability gaps that limit the full promise of

digital public goods (Arthi Jone & Dhanalakshmi, 2024; Buteau, n.d.). Parallel to digital advances, India’s

physical logistics ecosystem is undergoing a shift toward multimodal connectivity the coordinated use of road,

rail, waterways and ports to optimize cost, time and environmental outcomes. Research on multimodal supply

chains underscores how technological and organizational innovations in intermodal transfer, freight aggregation,

and real-time data exchange can reduce transaction and transportation costs while improving reliability

(Tavasszy, 2018; Cai, Sharkawi, & Taasim, 2024). Such connectivity is particularly consequential for MSMEs,

which typically lack the bargaining power and scale enjoyed by large firms; access to optimized multimodal

corridors can significantly lower inventory and distribution costs and enable MSMEs to access new markets with

predictable lead times (Menon & Shah, 2020; Talluri & Ananthamurthy, 2022). Yet the literature also cautions

that physical integration alone is insufficient: multimodality must be paired with interoperable information flows

and governance frameworks to realize end-to-end efficiency gains (Hofman, 2015; Tavasszy, 2018).

The complementary relationship between DPI and multimodal connectivity is emerging as a critical research

frontier. Digital platforms can orchestrate multimodal logistics by providing standardized data protocols,

shipment tracking, marketplace integration and payment settlement effectively knitting together scattered

transport assets and commercial actors into coordinated digital supply networks (Acharya et al., 2024; Hofman,

2015). Studies show that such digital-physical integration reduces coordination friction, lowers transaction costs,

and supports supply chain diversification and resilience (Cai et al., 2024; Yin & Ran, 2022). For MSMEs,

integrated digital-physical systems mean not only lower operational costs but also improved creditworthiness

(through digital transaction trails), easier participation in formal procurement, and enhanced resilience to

disruptions outcomes that align directly with national objectives of equitable growth and the Vision of a Viksit

Bharat by 2047 (Simran Kaur, 2025; Bright, 2025).

Despite the promise, empirical and policy literatures identify several persistent barriers. First, infrastructural

heterogeneity across regions “digital deserts” versus “tech havens” creates uneven competitive landscapes for

MSMEs, with rural and smaller urban firms lagging in both connectivity and digital skills (Khimani & Singhal,

2024; Gawali, n.d.). Second, resource constraints (capital, managerial capabilities and digital literacy) impede

the adoption of sophisticated supply-chain technologies among micro and small enterprises (Khandelwal &

Priya, 2024; Pandey, 2024). Third, institutional fragmentation and lack of interoperable standards constrain the

formation of federated data pipelines necessary for seamless multimodal operations (Hofman, 2015; Raghavan

et al., 2019). Finally, technology adoption without parallel process redesign and capacity building often leads to

sub-optimal outcomes, as many organizations fail to reengineer their business processes to exploit new digital

tools (Zika, 2022; Choudhury et al., 2021). These gaps point to a systemic problem: piecemeal interventions

yield gains for some firms but do not create a broad-based, sustainable transformation of MSME supply chains.

The literature also highlights the strategic role of policy and public-private collaboration in accelerating inclusive

digitalisation. Government-led initiatives such as ONDC and the broader India Stack demonstrate the catalytic

potential of open public goods in stimulating private innovation and bringing small sellers into digital

marketplaces (Mah Sheena K M et al., 2022; Government initiatives and digital innovation studies). Scholars

argue for an integrated policy mix that combines infrastructure investment, incentives for digital adoption,

skilling programs, and regulatory frameworks that encourage interoperability and competition (Buteau; Mah

Sheena et al., 2023). Moreover, several studies emphasize that resilience and sustainability including green

supply chain practices should be embedded in the digitalisation agenda to ensure long-term competitiveness and

ecological stewardship (Zainurrafiqi & Gazali, 2024; Menon & Shah, 2020).

A clear gap in the existing body of work lies at the intersection of DPI, multimodal connectivity and MSME

supply chain performance at the regional level especially with respect to integrated frameworks that translate

national digital public goods into locally relevant logistics solutions. While many studies document the benefits

of digitalisation or of improved physical connectivity in isolation (Pratyush Kumar Singh, 2023; Tavasszy, 2018),

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fewer examine how DPI can be intentionally designed to enable multimodal corridor orchestration that directly

serves MSME clusters, including small manufacturers, Agri-processors and micro-retailers. Likewise, evidence

is limited on how federated data architectures, open commerce networks and interoperable payment/credit rails

can be coordinated with modal investments (e.g., rail freight modernization, inland waterways and last-mile road

upgrades) to produce measurable improvements in cost, lead time and market access for MSMEs (Hofman,

2015; Cai et al., 2024). This study addresses that gap by interrogating how Digital Public Infrastructure and

multimodal connectivity together can catalyse supply-chain transformation for MSMEs within the framework

of India’s Vision for Viksit Bharat 2047. The research asks: (1) What are the mechanisms through which DPI

lowers transaction and coordination costs across multimodal logistics chains for MSMEs? (2) How can public

digital goods and open protocols be aligned with regional multimodal investments to maximize MSME

participation in formal markets? (3) What institutional and capability interventions are necessary to ensure

equitable outcomes across diverse MSME clusters? Drawing on the literature on digital public goods, supply

chain digitization, multimodal logistics and MSME policy, this paper proposes an integrated conceptual

framework and empirically grounded recommendations for policymakers, platform designers and industry

stakeholders (Khimani & Singhal, 2024; Acharya et al., 2024; Tavasszy, 2018).

The dual thrust of this introduction is to situate MSME supply-chain challenges within the twin possibilities of

DPI and multimodal connectivity, and to argue that their deliberate integration rather than isolated deployment

is essential for driving inclusive industrial transformation. The sections that follow review the empirical and

conceptual literature in greater depth, develop an integrative analytical framework, and present policy and

practice recommendations for catalyzing MSME competitiveness in the digital-physical economy that India

aspires to build by 2047 (Simran Kaur, 2025; Bright, 2025).

LITERATURE REVIEW

The discourse on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), multimodal connectivity, and Micro, Small, and Medium

Enterprises (MSMEs) is rapidly expanding, reflecting India’s aspiration toward Vision Viksit Bharat 2047.

Scholars agree that MSMEs form the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to employment,

exports, and innovation. However, persistent barriers such as fragmented supply chains, high logistics costs, and

limited access to formal credit hinder their growth. The literature converges on the argument that DPI and

multimodal connectivity offer transformative pathways for resolving these challenges by improving efficiency,

inclusivity, and competitiveness. A growing body of research explores the role of DPI in reshaping MSME

operations. Khimani and Singhal (2024) highlight how robust digital platforms enhance inclusivity by bridging

gaps in access to finance, digital tools, and marketplaces. Their findings suggest that foundational digital

infrastructure such as India Stack and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) lower transaction costs and expand

participation for smaller firms. Similarly, Mah Sheena K. M. et al. (2022) examine the Open Network for Digital

Commerce (ONDC) and show that open protocols reduce entry barriers, enabling MSMEs to connect with

broader consumer markets. These studies collectively argue that DPI functions as a “public good,” leveling the

playing field for enterprises of varied scales. At the enterprise level, advanced digital technologies like

blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) are increasingly integrated into supply

chains. Singh (2023) emphasizes how blockchain enhances transparency and trust in supply chain transactions,

while AI and IoT improve demand forecasting and real-time tracking. Acharya, Cisneros Saldana, and Markus

(2024) develop “SuppliFlow,” a digital platform designed to orchestrate multimodal logistics, underscoring how

digital interventions enable coordinated, efficient, and sustainable supply chains. These findings resonate with

Arthi Jone and Dhanalakshmi (2024), who argue that digital adoption boosts MSME productivity and market

competitiveness, though adoption gaps persist.

The literature also acknowledges challenges related to uneven digital readiness. Buteau (n.d.) notes that while

digital technologies empower MSMEs, disparities in digital literacy and resource availability create uneven

benefits. Sumitra (2023) similarly emphasizes that without complementary policy support and capacity building,

MSMEs risk exclusion from digital ecosystems. Gawali (n.d.) stresses the importance of bridging the rural-urban

divide, warning that digital deserts could deepen inequities if left unaddressed. Together, these studies indicate

that while digital platforms are transformative, equitable adoption requires systemic support. Parallel to

digitalisation, research on multimodal connectivity highlights its crucial role in reducing India’s high logistics

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costs. Tavasszy (2018) and Menon and Shah (2020) demonstrate that multimodal transport corridors integrating

road, rail, waterways, and air transport reduce time, cost, and carbon footprint. Cai, Sharkawi, and Taasim (2024)

further explore how digital tools enhance multimodal efficiency through real-time tracking and route

optimization. These findings are particularly significant for MSMEs, which typically lack scale economies and

rely on predictable, affordable logistics to remain competitive. Talluri and Ananthamurthy (2022) confirm that

improved multimodal corridors empower MSMEs by ensuring reliable access to markets. Hofman (2015)

provides a conceptual foundation for integrated logistics systems, arguing that physical connectivity must be

paired with digital data interoperability for maximum gains. This insight echoes Yin and Ran (2022), who

emphasize that integrated digital-physical systems reduce coordination friction, enhance resilience, and support

diversified supply networks. The synergy between DPI and multimodal logistics thus emerges as a critical theme:

while digital platforms orchestrate flows of information, multimodal networks optimize flows of goods. A

number of studies bridge the gap between digitalisation and logistics. Acharya et al. (2024) propose that DPI-

enabled platforms can serve as orchestrators of multimodal logistics by ensuring standardized data exchange,

digital payments, and shipment visibility. Similarly, Hofman (2015) highlights the need for federated data

pipelines to coordinate multiple stakeholders across transport modes. These insights are corroborated by Cai et

al. (2024), who find that integrated systems not only improve efficiency but also enhance MSME

creditworthiness by providing digital transaction records useful for financial institutions. Simran Kaur (2025)

further argues that such integration aligns with the national vision of a resilient, inclusive, and competitive India

by 2047. The literature also identifies barriers to seamless integration. Khandelwal and Priya (2024) point to

capital constraints that prevent small firms from adopting advanced supply chain technologies. Pandey (2024)

highlights managerial and operational bottlenecks, noting that many MSMEs struggle to adapt business

processes to new digital environments. Zika (2022) and Choudhury et al. (2021) argue that technology adoption

without organizational restructuring produces suboptimal outcomes, as digitisation must be accompanied by

process redesign and workforce upskilling. Together, these findings suggest that infrastructural investments must

be complemented by capacity-building measures.

Policy interventions emerge as a recurring theme in the literature. Mah Sheena et al. (2022) stress the importance

of government-led initiatives such as ONDC, which catalyze private innovation while ensuring inclusivity.

Buteau (n.d.) and Mah Sheena et al. (2023) recommend integrated policy frameworks that combine infrastructure

investment with digital literacy programs and regulatory support for interoperability. Bright (2025) and Simran

Kaur (2025) reinforce this view by underscoring the role of DPI in advancing the goals of Vision Viksit Bharat

2047, particularly in fostering inclusive growth and global competitiveness. Another important dimension

concerns sustainability. Menon and Shah (2020) and Zainurrafiqi and Gazali (2024) emphasize that supply chain

reforms must also account for environmental impacts. Studies on green supply chains suggest that combining

digital optimization with multimodal transport reduces emissions and improves long-term sustainability. This

perspective expands the significance of DPI and multimodal integration beyond efficiency and competitiveness,

situating them within broader ecological and developmental goals. Despite the robust literature, gaps remain.

Few studies examine how DPI-enabled multimodal logistics specifically benefit MSME clusters in different

regions of India. Most existing research either focuses on national-level frameworks (e.g., ONDC, India Stack)

or examines logistics improvements in isolation. Hofman (2015) and Tavasszy (2018) provide conceptual

models, but empirical evidence on how federated digital systems interact with multimodal corridors to reduce

MSME logistics costs is limited. Similarly, the literature rarely addresses how digital transaction trails created

through DPI can directly influence MSME access to formal credit markets. These gaps suggest the need for

integrated, context-specific frameworks that align national digital platforms with regional connectivity

initiatives. Overall, the reviewed literature underscores three central insights. First, DPI is essential for

democratizing access to digital tools, markets, and finance, especially for MSMEs. Second, multimodal

connectivity offers structural solutions to India’s high logistics costs, improving competitiveness across

industries. Third, the integration of digital and physical infrastructures is key to unlocking transformative supply

chain efficiencies. However, persistent gaps in adoption, capacity, and policy coordination highlight the need for

holistic strategies that combine technological, institutional, and infrastructural interventions. This body of

scholarship provides the foundation for exploring how DPI and multimodal connectivity can jointly catalyse

MSME supply chain transformation. By integrating digital public goods with physical logistics infrastructure,

India has the potential to drive inclusive growth, enhance resilience, and realize its vision of becoming a

developed nation by 2047.

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Table 1: Literature Review Table

Sr. No. Author(s)

Year Focus

Key Findings

Relevance

1

Khimani &

Singhal

2024 Digital infrastructure Transition from “digital

Shows role of

& MSME

deserts” to “tech havens” infrastructure in

competitiveness

enhances innovation &

growth

MSME

competitiveness

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Mah Sheena K M, 2022 ONDC for

ONDC enables fair digital Highlights e-commerce

Aithal & Sharma

SMEs/MSMEs

commerce & inclusive

growth

democratization

Acharya, Cisneros 2023 Supply Chain as a

SuppliFlow improves

efficiency, reduces cost,

enhances visibility

Standardized

integration for MSMEs

& Markus

Service

Arthi Jone &

2024 Digital

Boosts productivity &

market reach

Policy push for digital

adoption

Dhanalakshmi

transformation &

MSME growth

(Anon.)

2023 Digital supply chain

in India

IoT, AI, blockchain

improve efficiency; infra

gaps remain

Shows digital

opportunities &

challenges

Sharon

2021 Roadmap for digital

MSMEs

End-to-end ecosystem

with finance, payments,

skills

Calls for govt.–user–

provider collaboration

Sumitra

2021 Digital

transformation

Essential for

competitiveness amidst

Practical strategies for

survival

survival for MSMEs crises

Gawali

2022 MSME constraints & Transformation improves Provides way forward

digital solutions

productivity &

competitiveness

9

Benkhider et al.

2024 Supply chain

transformation

Connectivity improves

resilience, transparency

Useful for resilient

MSMEs

10

11

12

Vijay Kumar &

Harshitha

2023 ONDC

implementation

Empowers MSMEs &

challenges monopolies

Important for small

retailers

Tiwari et al.

2024 Supply chain

digitisation

ERP, IoT, blockchain

enhance resilience & trust chain

Builds traceable supply

Zainurrafiqi &

Gazali

2024 Green & digital

supply chain

Positive impact on MSME Shows

performance

competitiveness–

resilience link

13

14

Harshitha

Cai et al.

2023 ONDC evaluation

Opportunities for

MSMEs, curbs

monopolies

Relevance for e-

commerce adoption

2024 Digitalization &

diversification

Lowers transaction costs

& improves resilience

Key to supply security

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15

16

Choudhury et al.

Yu et al.

2021 Critical success

factors in digital SC

12 CSFs identified, TISM Framework for SC

model

efficiency

2024 Digital

transformation &

innovation

Improves collaborative

innovation & market

performance

Explains innovation

pathways

17

Yin & Ran

2022 Supply chain

resilience

Diversification +

digitalization improve

resilience

fsQCA method insights

Anticipates global DPI

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

Hofman

Bright

Datta

2015 Global data pipelines Need interoperability for

logistics

2025 Digital MSMEs

Ecosystem essential for

growth

Reinforces digital

policy goals

2024 Digital tech for

resilience

Govt + users support

ecosystem

Shows resilience-

building role

Khandelwal &

Priya

2024 MSME digital

challenges

Growth prospects, but

tech knowhow gaps

Policy + skilling need

Hemdev

2024 SCM in India

Innovations drive

competitiveness

India’s path to global

hub

Vandita &

Srivastava

2023 Digitalization in

MSMEs

Covid-19 accelerated

adoption

Explains survival

digitalization

Kaur

2025 Commerce role in

Viksit Bharat

MSMEs + digital infra

vital

Strategic roadmap

Menon & Shah

Kasim

2020 Digital SC for SMEs Adoption crucial for

survival

Warns against lack of

awareness

2023 Digital-based

transformation

Improves efficiency &

literacy matters

Role of digital literacy

27

28

Timur

2023 Digital SC challenges SMEs lag despite benefits Covid highlighted need

Tavasszy

2018 Innovation in

multimodal SC

Tech improves efficiency Important for

& sustainability

multimodality

29

30

31

32

33

Mudda et al.

2017 Agriculture SC

digitization

IT empowers small

farmers

Agriculture supply

chain

Mah Sheena K M 2023 Govt schemes &

et al.

ONDC, OCEN, NDEA

boost productivity

Govt role in MSME

uplift

MSMEs

Khatri et al.

2023 Covid impact on

MSMEs

Accelerated digitalization Pandemic-driven

adoption

(Anon.)

2022 Blockchain in

MSMEs SC

Streamlines SC, improves Tech adoption gap

efficiency

Pandey et al.

2024 Need for SME

digitalization

Improves efficiency &

quality

Highlights adoption

barriers

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34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

45

46

47

48

Jha

2021 Industry 4.0 in SMEs Evidence of adoption

challenges

Industrial readiness

Bhattacharya et al. 2022 Enablers of

Seven enablers, top

disruption mitigation management crucial

MSME resilience

factors

Talluri &

Ananthamurthy

2022 SC digitalization in

Positive influence on

performance

Empirical MSME mfg

study

mfg

Majumdar et al.

Melekhova

Wang

2020 E-commerce &

ASEAN

Digital connectivity links Regional integration

SMEs

2019 Digital SC models

Flexibility & reliability

via ML & blockchain

Classification model

2024 SC digitization &

business

Impacts digital

transformation success

Case analysis

Raghavan et al.

Shaikh

2019 India Stack

Smartphone penetration + Foundation of DPI

DPI

2024 Digital SC &

economy

Enhances efficiency &

reduces costs

Business development

Pandey

2024 MSMEs & GVCs

Challenges & policy recs

Global supply chain

integration

Khan & Uddin

2023 Managerial

digitalization

Skills crucial for MSME

performance

Human capital in

digital adoption

Khmelnitskaya & 2020 Digital SC network

Sizov

SC efficiency via tested

systems

Transformation

examples

Thatai

2016 Digital India

initiative

9 pillars for

transformation

Foundational national

mission

Zika

2022 SC procurement

Improves visibility &

transparency

Lessons on digital

failure

Singh

2023 AI & ML in SC

Enhance forecasting &

decision-making

Next-gen SCM

Tripathi & Gupta 2021 India readiness for

Industry 4.0

Readiness score 0.44,

govt role

Readiness assessment

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The present study adopts a qualitative and exploratory research design, relying primarily on a comprehensive

review of secondary sources. The methodology is structured to systematically analyse existing scholarship,

identify knowledge gaps, and derive research objectives that align with the overarching aim of understanding

the role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and multimodal connectivity in transforming MSME supply chains

for Vision Viksit Bharat 2047. The first step involved the identification and collection of relevant academic

literature. Nearly fifty research papers were reviewed, representing diverse sources from peer-reviewed journals,

conference proceedings, institutional reports, and policy documents. These papers were accessed through

established databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate, ensuring both breadth

and credibility in the selection of literature. The time frame of the sources spanned from foundational works on

multimodal logistics and supply chain management to more recent studies on digital public goods, digitalisation,

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and MSME competitiveness, providing both historical and contemporary perspectives. The second step entailed

content analysis of the reviewed literature. Each paper was examined for its study objectives, theoretical

underpinnings, research design, and key findings. Special attention was paid to works addressing MSMEs, DPI,

digitalisation of supply chains, and multimodal logistics in the Indian and global contexts. A structured literature

review table was created, capturing citation details, study focus, and key contributions. This systematic

organisation facilitated comparative analysis and highlighted recurring themes, contradictions, and

underexplored areas. The third step involved synthesising insights from the reviewed literature to identify gaps.

The analysis revealed that while extensive studies exist on DPI and multimodal connectivity separately, few

explore their combined potential in addressing MSME supply chain challenges. Furthermore, empirical work

linking DPI-enabled logistics with MSME credit access, regional cluster competitiveness, and sustainability

remains limited. These insights formed the basis of the research gap outlined in this study.

Finally, the research objectives were developed by translating the identified gaps into focused questions and

directions for inquiry. The objectives serve as guiding pillars for further empirical or conceptual research and

are designed to contribute both to academic discourse and policy formulation. This study employs a literature-

based methodology that integrates systematic review, content analysis, and thematic synthesis. By critically

engaging with approximately fifty research papers across multiple databases, the methodology ensures rigor,

comprehensiveness, and relevance in framing the research gap and objectives. This approach provides a robust

foundation for subsequent exploration of how DPI and multimodal connectivity can jointly catalyse MSME

supply chain transformation in India.

Research Gap

The reviewed literature provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of Digital Public

Infrastructure (DPI) and multimodal connectivity for supply chain management, especially in the context of

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). While extensive studies explore the individual impacts of

digitalisation and logistics integration, a significant research gap emerges at their intersection, particularly in

relation to MSME supply chains in India. First, the literature is fragmented in its treatment of DPI and

multimodal connectivity. Studies on DPI largely focus on digital public goods such as India Stack, Unified

Payments Interface (UPI), and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), highlighting their roles in

democratizing market access, reducing transaction costs, and fostering inclusivity. Parallel research on

multimodal connectivity emphasizes the importance of integrating road, rail, waterways, and ports to improve

logistics efficiency and reduce costs. However, very few studies examine how these two domains converge to

generate integrated supply chain benefits. This disconnect represents a critical gap, as MSMEs are most likely

to gain from systems where digital and physical infrastructures are designed to complement one another. Second,

much of the existing scholarship remains conceptual or descriptive, with limited empirical evidence on how

DPI-enabled multimodal connectivity impacts MSME operations at the cluster or regional level. For instance,

while Acharya et al. (2024) propose digital platforms such as SuppliFlow for logistics orchestration, empirical

validation of such frameworks in real-world MSME contexts remains sparse. Similarly, studies by Hofman

(2015) and Tavasszy (2018) present conceptual models for integrated logistics systems but do not address how

these can be operationalized within the Indian MSME ecosystem. This lack of grounded empirical work restricts

our understanding of context-specific challenges and opportunities. Third, the literature underexplores the role

of DPI in addressing financial constraints faced by MSMEs. Several studies point to the importance of digital

transaction records in improving creditworthiness, but empirical analyses linking DPI-enabled supply chain

visibility to formal credit access are largely absent. This omission is significant because access to affordable

finance remains one of the most pressing challenges for MSMEs, and DPI could serve as a bridge by creating

transparent digital trails that lenders can rely on. Fourth, there is limited exploration of capacity-building and

institutional readiness for adopting integrated digital-physical systems. Scholars such as Zika (2022) and

Choudhury et al. (2021) stress that technology adoption without process redesign leads to suboptimal outcomes.

Yet the literature offers little guidance on how MSMEs particularly micro and rural enterprises can overcome

digital literacy gaps, managerial constraints, and infrastructural limitations when engaging with DPI and

multimodal networks. This gap points to the need for research that not only considers technological design but

also addresses institutional mechanisms, skilling programs, and governance frameworks necessary for successful

adoption.

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Finally, sustainability considerations are underrepresented in the integrated discussion of DPI and multimodal

connectivity. While individual studies highlight green supply chains and multimodal transport’s role in reducing

emissions, very few examine how digital platforms can be harnessed to monitor, manage, and optimize

sustainable practices across supply chains. This represents an opportunity to link MSME competitiveness with

broader environmental and developmental goals, aligning supply chain transformation with India’s sustainability

commitments. The literature establishes the foundational importance of DPI and multimodal connectivity for

MSME growth but leaves critical questions unanswered: How can DPI be deliberately designed to orchestrate

multimodal supply chains for MSMEs? What mechanisms ensure that these integrations translate into

measurable improvements in cost efficiency, credit access, and market expansion? How can policy frameworks

and institutional support systems be structured to enable equitable adoption across diverse clusters? And how

can sustainability be embedded into this integration? Addressing these gaps is essential for developing an

evidence-based framework that aligns with India’s vision of a digitally empowered and logistically efficient

Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Research Objectives

RO1: To examine how Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) lowers transaction and coordination costs across

multimodal supply chains for MSMEs in India.

RO2: To investigate how the integration of DPI with multimodal connectivity can enhance MSME access to

markets, finance, and formal supply chain networks.

RO3: To analyze the institutional, infrastructural, and capacity-building challenges that hinder MSMEs from

fully adopting integrated digital-physical supply chain systems.

RO4: To propose a conceptual framework that aligns DPI and multimodal connectivity with the policy vision

of Viksit Bharat 2047, focusing on efficiency, inclusivity, and sustainability.

India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): A Revolution in Inclusion:

India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) represents one of the most ambitious and transformative public digital

initiatives in the world. At its core, DPI is designed as a set of secure, interoperable, and open-standard digital

systems that enable equitable access to essential services at scale. Unlike proprietary digital ecosystems that

often exclude vulnerable groups, India’s DPI is framed as a societal-level public good, ensuring that every citizen

regardless of geography, income, or social status can participate in the digital economy.

The Foundation of DPI

The foundation of India’s DPI lies in its open, secure, and interoperable architecture. By adhering to open

standards, it ensures that multiple stakeholders from government agencies to private enterprises can build upon

the same base without creating fragmented or siloed systems. This design principle is critical for inclusion, as it

prevents monopolization and ensures that citizens can access services through diverse channels. DPI is not just

a technological framework but also a governance innovation that balances scale, accessibility, and security.

Core Components of DPI

The success of India’s DPI can be traced to its three core components, which function synergistically to empower

citizens:

 Aadhaar: With over 1.4 billion unique digital identities, Aadhaar serves as the foundation for identity

verification and service delivery. It has enabled millions to access welfare benefits, open bank accounts,

and authenticate themselves in the digital economy. Aadhaar reduces duplication, curbs fraud, and

ensures that benefits reach the intended recipients efficiently.

 Unified Payments Interface (UPI): UPI has revolutionized India’s financial ecosystem by allowing

seamless, real-time, and low-cost digital payments. It is interoperable across banks, fintech platforms,

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and merchants, ensuring that even small businesses and individuals can engage in digital transactions.

For MSMEs and rural populations, UPI has been a lifeline, enabling financial inclusion and expanding

access to markets.

 Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA): DEPA provides individuals with control

over their personal data while enabling them to use it productively. By empowering citizens to share

verified data with consent, DEPA supports access to credit, insurance, and other critical services. This

framework balances innovation with privacy and security, addressing global concerns about data misuse.

Transformative Impact of DPI

The impact of DPI has been profound. Financial inclusion in India has surged from around 17 percent to over

80 percent in less than a decade, driven largely by the synergy of Aadhaar-enabled authentication, Jan Dhan

Yojana bank accounts, and UPI-based transactions. Subsidy leakages, once a chronic issue in welfare

distribution, have been significantly reduced saving the government an estimated $25 billion annually. These

savings not only improve fiscal efficiency but also ensure that resources are redirected toward development

priorities. Beyond numbers, DPI has democratized access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and

e-commerce. By lowering transaction costs, enhancing transparency, and creating digital trails, it has also

expanded credit access for small businesses and individuals who were previously excluded from the formal

financial system. The ability of DPI to scale equitably makes it a model for other developing countries seeking

to combine digital innovation with inclusion.

India’s Digital Public Infrastructure is more than a technological framework; it is a societal innovation that

bridges the digital divide and fosters inclusion at scale. By integrating identity, payments, and data

empowerment, DPI has transformed the way citizens access services and participate in the economy. Its success

demonstrates that digital systems, when designed as public goods, can drive both economic efficiency and social

equity. As India advances toward Vision Viksit Bharat 2047, DPI will remain a cornerstone of inclusive growth

and a benchmark for global digital governance.

Credit Enablement Network (OCEN): Democratizing MSME Credit Access:

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a pivotal role in India’s economy by contributing

significantly to employment, manufacturing, and exports. However, one of the greatest barriers faced by MSMEs

has been access to affordable and timely credit. Traditional financial institutions often view these enterprises as

high-risk due to the lack of collateral, limited formal records, and irregular cash flows. As a result, MSMEs have

long been trapped in a cycle of credit exclusion, relying on informal lending channels that impose high interest

rates and constrain growth. To address this systemic challenge, the Credit Enablement Network (OCEN) has

emerged as a groundbreaking digital framework aimed at democratizing credit access for MSMEs.

Digital Footprint Analysis

At the heart of OCEN lies the use of digital transaction data to create accurate and reliable credit profiles for

MSMEs. Instead of relying solely on collateral or traditional financial statements, OCEN leverages the digital

footprints generated by businesses through payments, invoices, and other transactions. By aggregating and

analyzing this data, lenders can build a clearer picture of an MSME’s financial health and operational viability.

This approach helps overcome the asymmetry of information that has historically disadvantaged small

enterprises in formal lending.

Streamlined Application Process

Another key feature of OCEN is its ability to simplify the loan application process. MSMEs traditionally face

significant paperwork, complex procedures, and repeated compliance requirements when approaching banks for

credit. OCEN eliminates much of this friction by standardizing the application process and reducing dependency

on collateral. By connecting borrowers, lenders, and digital platforms through a common protocol, it ensures

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that loan applications can be processed quickly and transparently. This not only reduces transaction costs but

also improves trust between lenders and MSMEs.

Expanded Credit Availability

OCEN enables financial institutions to design tailored financing solutions that reflect the actual performance of

MSMEs. Since creditworthiness is assessed through real-time business data rather than static financial records,

lenders can extend credit even to those firms previously excluded from formal banking systems. This expands

the availability of credit and makes it more inclusive, particularly for micro and rural enterprises that form the

majority of India’s MSME sector. By diversifying risk assessment methods, OCEN also encourages more lenders

to participate in the MSME financing ecosystem.

Growth and Job Creation

The ultimate impact of OCEN is visible in its potential to foster growth and job creation. Access to affordable

credit allows MSMEs to invest in technology, scale up operations, and expand into new markets. This in turn

creates sustainable employment opportunities and drives regional economic development. By linking digital

public infrastructure with credit access, OCEN also strengthens financial inclusion and aligns with India’s long-

term development goals under Vision Viksit Bharat 2047.

The Credit Enablement Network represents a paradigm shift in how credit is assessed, delivered, and consumed

in the MSME sector. By leveraging digital footprints, streamlining processes, expanding credit availability, and

fueling growth, OCEN has the potential to democratize finance for millions of enterprises. It transforms credit

from being an obstacle into a growth enabler, thereby ensuring that MSMEs the backbone of India’s economy

are equipped to thrive in the digital era.

DISCUSSION

The emergence of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) marks a defining moment in India’s journey toward

industrial transformation. Unlike isolated technology interventions, DPI operates as a system of interoperable

platforms that reconfigure how businesses, markets, and governments interact. This section discusses the

findings in relation to the four research objectives, highlighting both opportunities and constraints in

strengthening supply chain dynamics for India’s MSME clusters.

To analyze the role of DPI in strengthening MSME supply chains in India

Digital Public Infrastructure has become the backbone of inclusive industrial growth by providing MSMEs with

platforms that reduce entry barriers, lower transaction costs, and increase visibility in national and global

markets. For example, ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) democratizes e-commerce by creating an

open and interoperable network where small retailers can list their products alongside large corporations. This

directly challenges the dominance of monopolistic platforms while giving MSMEs fairer access to customers.

Similarly, OCEN (Open Credit Enablement Network) redefines credit access by enabling cash-flow–based

lending rather than asset-based financing, a structural shift that benefits undercapitalized entrepreneurs. The

adoption of these platforms has already shown positive results in MSME clusters engaged in textiles, handicrafts,

and food processing, where supply chains are typically fragmented. ONDC allows these producers to bypass

intermediaries, leading to better margins and greater transparency. Additionally, DPI-driven logistics initiatives,

such as PM Gati Shakti, improve multimodal connectivity, enabling MSMEs to integrate more seamlessly with

domestic and export markets. Thus, DPI not only strengthens operational efficiency but also enhances resilience

by making supply chains more adaptive to disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

To evaluate the potential of DPI in promoting inclusivity for women and specially-abled entrepreneurs

A distinctive strength of DPI lies in its inclusive design philosophy. By embedding accessibility and

interoperability, DPI platforms provide opportunities for marginalized groups traditionally excluded from

industrial growth. Women entrepreneurs, who face systemic barriers such as limited mobility, lack of collateral,

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and time constraints, benefit from ONDC-enabled digital storefronts that reduce dependency on physical

marketplaces. Similarly, OCEN-backed microcredit mechanisms give women-led businesses and specially-abled

entrepreneurs access to working capital without lengthy bureaucratic procedures. Evidence suggests that women-

led MSMEs adopting digital tools demonstrate higher revenue growth and greater resilience to market shocks.

For specially-abled entrepreneurs, DPI platforms that integrate assistive technologies (voice commands,

simplified interfaces, and vernacular support) remove critical barriers to participation. These advances directly

contribute to social equity, ensuring that industrial transformation does not remain limited to resource-rich actors

but instead empowers groups historically left behind. However, inclusivity is not automatic. Persistent gender

gaps in digital literacy, unequal access to devices, and cultural biases restrict participation. Similarly, while DPI

frameworks are technically inclusive, their successful implementation requires capacity-building programs that

train entrepreneurs to navigate digital systems confidently. Without such interventions, there is a risk of

reinforcing rather than dismantling inequalities.

To examine challenges in the adoption and implementation of DPI in MSME supply chains

Despite the promise of DPI, its adoption across India’s diverse MSME clusters faces substantial challenges. The

first and most visible challenge is the digital divide. Rural and semi-urban clusters, where many MSMEs operate,

still suffer from patchy internet connectivity, low bandwidth, and limited access to affordable devices. This

restricts their ability to fully leverage platforms like ONDC or logistics tools embedded in Gati Shakti. The

second challenge lies in digital literacy and trust. Many MSME owners remain hesitant to engage with digital

platforms due to limited technical knowledge and concerns over data security, privacy, and fraud. For instance,

while ONDC promises transparency, small entrepreneurs may still distrust algorithm-driven visibility or fear

being overshadowed by larger, tech-savvy competitors. Third, institutional and regulatory readiness remains

uneven. While policy frameworks such as the Data Protection Act and DPI guidelines exist, their enforcement

is still evolving. MSMEs worry about compliance costs, cyber threats, and the complexity of aligning their

operations with multiple digital frameworks simultaneously. Finally, financing adoption poses hurdles. Although

OCEN enables cash-flow–based lending, many MSMEs are reluctant to borrow due to prior experiences with

debt traps or hidden costs. Without strong financial literacy programs, credit access risks becoming underutilized.

These challenges underscore that DPI’s transformative potential can only be realized through multi-stakeholder

collaboration involving government, private players, technology providers, and grassroots organizations.

To suggest strategies for leveraging DPI to ensure resilient and competitive MSME ecosystems

To move from promise to practice, India must focus on strategies that bridge gaps in infrastructure, literacy, and

governance. First, capacity-building initiatives tailored to MSME clusters are essential. Training programs

should focus on digital literacy, cybersecurity awareness, and the practical use of platforms like ONDC and

OCEN. Partnerships with local trade associations and NGOs can amplify reach and contextualize training.

Second, targeted infrastructure investments are required in rural and semi-urban areas to ensure equitable access

to high-speed internet and affordable devices. Public–private partnerships can accelerate the rollout of

connectivity solutions, enabling MSMEs in remote areas to participate fully in DPI ecosystems. Third, fostering

trust and adoption requires transparent governance mechanisms. Clear regulations on data protection,

algorithmic fairness, and grievance redressal will increase confidence among small entrepreneurs. Moreover,

platforms must adopt human-centric design, offering vernacular language support, simple navigation, and

features tailored for women and differently-abled users. Finally, the integration of sustainability principles within

DPI is critical. By embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks into supply chain

platforms, India can ensure that digital transformation does not come at the expense of long-term ecological and

social well-being. MSMEs adopting green practices can be incentivized through preferential lending on OCEN

or visibility boosts on ONDC, aligning competitiveness with sustainability.

DPI is not just a technological framework but a socio-economic transformation tool. Its impact is evident across

supply chain efficiency, inclusivity, and resilience. Yet, successful adoption requires addressing structural

challenges that impede equitable access. By aligning policy, infrastructure, and stakeholder participation, DPI

can become the cornerstone of India’s industrial transition, driving both competitiveness and social equity in

line with the aspirations of Viksit Bharat 2047.

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CONCLUSION

India’s industrial transformation is at a critical juncture where technology, policy, and entrepreneurship

converge. This study set out to explore how Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) through platforms like ONDC,

OCEN, and PM Gati Shakti can strengthen supply chain dynamics for MSMEs, with particular attention to

women and specially-abled entrepreneurs. The findings confirm that DPI is more than a technological

innovation; it is an institutional framework that redefines access, efficiency, and inclusivity within India’s supply

chains. First, the research highlights DPI’s ability to democratize markets and finance. ONDC enables small

firms to compete with established players by creating open, interoperable e-commerce networks. Similarly,

OCEN’s shift to cash-flow–based lending empowers undercapitalized MSMEs to secure credit without the

traditional barriers of collateral or credit history. These structural changes not only level the playing field but

also increase resilience by reducing dependency on intermediaries and informal lenders. Second, inclusivity

emerges as both a strength and a challenge. Women and specially-abled entrepreneurs benefit from the

accessibility of digital storefronts, simplified credit systems, and supportive logistics infrastructure. However,

without targeted capacity building, the risk of digital exclusion persists. Bridging gendered digital divides,

designing assistive interfaces, and offering vernacular support remain critical tasks for policymakers and

platform developers alike. Third, adoption challenges underscore the complex reality of implementation.

Infrastructure deficits, low digital literacy, and concerns over trust and data privacy limit the speed and scale of

DPI penetration, particularly in rural and semi-urban MSME clusters. Unless these barriers are systematically

addressed, DPI risks reinforcing existing inequalities instead of dismantling them.

Finally, the study identifies actionable strategies for strengthening MSME ecosystems: investments in rural

connectivity, localized training programs, transparent governance frameworks, and sustainability-linked

incentives. These measures will not only encourage adoption but also ensure that digital transformation aligns

with India’s broader development goals, including Viksit Bharat 2047. Digital Public Infrastructure has the

potential to act as a catalyst for inclusive, resilient, and globally competitive supply chains. Its success, however,

will depend on balancing technological advancement with equitable access and robust governance. For

MSMEs—the backbone of India’s economy DPI offers a pathway to growth, innovation, and integration into

global value chains. For policymakers and stakeholders, it provides a blueprint to ensure that industrial

transformation is both competitive and inclusive. By embedding inclusivity, trust, and sustainability at the heart

of digital platforms, India can harness DPI not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a foundation for long-term

socio-economic transformation.

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