On National Startup Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Startup India initiative as a transformative force, emphasizing the critical role young minds play in addressing real-world challenges through innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. Marking a decade since its launch on January 16, 2016, the Startup India initiative has propelled India to become the world's third-largest startup ecosystem.
PM Modi highlighted that startups are "engines of change" that are shaping the future of the economy and society. He expressed pride in the individuals who dared to dream big, challenged conventional norms, took risks, and created a transformative impact through their startups.
The Startup India initiative was launched to nurture innovation, promote entrepreneurship, and facilitate investment-driven growth, with the goal of transforming India into a nation of job creators rather than job seekers. Over the past decade, it has emerged as a cornerstone of India's economic and innovation architecture by strengthening institutional mechanisms, expanding access to capital and mentorship, and fostering an enabling environment for startups to grow and scale across sectors and geographies.
As of December 2025, India boasts over 2 lakh startups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). These startups have collectively generated over 21 lakh jobs, with approximately 50 new startups being recognized daily. A significant portion, nearly half, of these startups are now emerging from Tier II and Tier III cities, signaling a geographical democratization of entrepreneurship.
The government has played a crucial role in supporting this growth by implementing policies focused on easing bureaucratic hurdles and scaling innovative ideas. Initiatives like Startup India Investor Connect and Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) further promote collaboration and knowledge sharing within the ecosystem. The National Startup Awards recognize exceptional startups that are creating economic and social impact.
Several startups have made significant contributions to various sectors. For instance, NeoMotion, incubated at IIT Madras, developed innovative and socially inclusive wheelchairs. Ramuka Global Services Pvt. Ltd., recognized by DPIIT, created ECOFIX, a sustainable solution for pothole repair, in collaboration with CSIR-CRRI.
Technology-driven startups are also empowering youth by reshaping employment, fostering skill development, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing digital inclusion. These ventures create new job opportunities, equip the workforce with technological skills, and inspire young innovators to solve real-world problems.
Amazon is also playing a role in supporting Indian entrepreneurs through programs like Amazon Launchpad, Amazon Karigar, and Amazon Saheli. These initiatives provide startups and artisans with access to customers, resources, and support to grow their businesses.
Looking ahead, startups are expected to remain central to India's development trajectory, driving innovation-led economic growth and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The government continues to work with stakeholders to strengthen the startup ecosystem and create a conducive environment for startups to venture into new areas, including space and defense.
