One nation one subscription: an illusion or a reality?

Purpose The objective of the study is to highlight the new concept, i.e. One nation one subscription (ONOS), proposed by the Government of India (GOI). Under the proposal, the GOI will negotiate with the publishers at national level for all the electronic resources to provide access to its citizens. This study aims to make aware the library and information science professionals about the needs and advantages of the new concepts. Another purpose of this study is to highlight the steps needed for the successful implementation of the concept. Design/methodology/approach Literature on the “One nation and one subscription” concept, recently introduced by the GOI, has been studied to know the concept’s pros and cons. The authors identified the needs and advantages of the idea. They consulted SCOPUS to know the total and open access research publications contribution from India. They also identified the challenges and steps to convert the concept from illusion to reality. Consulted the latest correspondence of GOI to highlight the actions taken by it to implement the first phase. Findings The ONOS concept is challenging and aims to make all the e-resources required by Indian citizens accessible under a nationwide license. It is an extension of libraries’ consortia-level negotiation to a national level. The idea is helpful to those who cannot afford the subscription to these e-resources due to the lack of funds, especially in remote areas. The view will also help improve the quantity and quality of research publications from India. However, there are challenges. The GOI and other players must work together to address these challenges and ensure that the concept of ONOS becomes a reality. Originality/value The study is an original one and checked through Turnitin which shows 1% similarity.