National Startup Day: An Exclusive Conversation With DPIIT Jt. Sec.

As India celebrates National Startup Day, marking a decade since the transformative Startup India Mission began, the nation reflects on a remarkable journey of growth and innovation. This initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016, has not only empowered entrepreneurs but also placed India firmly on the global startup map.

Today, India boasts a vibrant ecosystem of over 1.5 lakh startups, securing its position as the third-largest startup hub globally. But how did this revolution unfold, and what lies ahead for Indian startups?

In an exclusive conversation with Sanjiv Singh, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, TICE uncovers the strategies, achievements, and bold visions shaping India's startup future. With the theme of this year’s celebrations focusing on fostering deeper collaboration between corporates and startups, the dialogue sheds light on policies, schemes, and aspirations driving India’s entrepreneurial dream.

Startup India Mission Over the Decade

Reflecting on the past decade, Sanjiv Singh shared, "When we started in 2016, there were only 350 officially recognized startups in India. Today, we’ve crossed over 1.5 lakh, thanks to sustained efforts under the Startup India Mission. From policy changes to funding schemes, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure startups flourish."

The journey began with a comprehensive Startup India Action Plan, which outlined 19 pillars designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage—from initial funding to scaling up. Singh emphasized that this structured approach, coupled with relentless execution, has transformed India into a startup powerhouse. “Our dream is not just to remain among the top three but to become the world’s most innovative startup ecosystem,” he added.

Importance of Corporate-Government Partnership

A key focus area of DPIIT’s strategy is fostering stronger corporate-startup partnerships. Singh highlighted how ecosystems like Silicon Valley thrive on corporate-led innovation.

“Corporates are crucial in driving innovation—by creating grand challenges, rewarding problem-solvers, and offering procurement opportunities. We’ve initiated collaborations with various ccoporates, and we aim to replicate this model across India,” he explained.

This collaborative push is set to accelerate, with DPIIT planning engagements with India’s top 100 corporates to foster an environment where startups thrive on industry mentorship and opportunities.

Read More: How Has Startup India Transformed the Nation’s Economy So Far?

Top Startup Policies

India’s government-backed startup initiatives have played a pivotal role in the ecosystem’s success. Among them, Shri Singh identified three key schemes that have significantly impacted startups:

1. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): Aimed at funding early-stage startups to address capital gaps.
2. Funds of Funds (FoF): The ₹10,000 crore government fund has mobilized commitments worth over ₹1 lakh crore.
3. Credit Guarantee Scheme: Designed to provide financial security, enabling startups to take calculated risks.

“These schemes have democratized access to capital and removed financial barriers for entrepreneurs across industries,” Singh elaborated.

Vision 2025: Innovation in Every District

Taking a long-term view, Shri Singh outlined a bold vision for India’s startup ecosystem.

“Prime Minister Modi has envisioned at least one startup in every district of India by 2025. This goal is ambitious but achievable, given the progress we’ve made,” he noted.

Central to this vision is BHASKAR (Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry), an AI-driven digital platform that will connect over one million startups, enabling them to collaborate, share resources, and access mentorship. “Our aim is to create a seamless network where startups find solutions and partners within the ecosystem itself,” Singh shared.

Additionally, a renewed focus on manufacturing startups is set to bolster India’s transition into a “product nation,” with corporates actively participating in this transformation.

Read More: DPIIT, ITC Partner to Boost India’s Startup Ecosystem

Startup Mahakumbh: The World’s Largest Startup Gathering

Looking ahead, the Startup Mahakumbh, set to be the largest global gathering of startups, will serve as a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations.

“This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a convergence of ideas, talent, and opportunities,” Singh said. With participants from over 50 countries, the event promises to elevate India’s stature in the global startup community.

Simplifying Regulations: A Startup-Friendly Environment

India’s regulatory framework for startups has seen significant improvements, with more than 55 reforms implemented to date. Singh encouraged startups to actively share their challenges, ensuring policies evolve to meet the ecosystem's dynamic needs.

“Startups are at the heart of India’s economic growth. Our commitment is to make business easier, remove bottlenecks, and create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs to thrive,” he asserted.

Read More: The Evolution of the Indian Startup Ecosystem: A Decade Startup India

ONDC: Democratizing E-Commerce

Speaking on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), Sanjiv highlighted its role in leveling the playing field for small businesses.

“ONDC enables startups to reach a broader audience, breaking the stranglehold of major e-commerce platforms. We are now developing a seller’s reference app to empower even more businesses,” he revealed.

Words of Encouragement for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Concluding the conversation, Sanjiv Singh offered inspiring advice for India’s budding entrepreneurs: “Work hard, keep working hard. Don’t feel bad if things don’t work out—it will eventually work. Have pride in your work and your country.”

Join Our Thriving Entrepreneurial Community

Twitter: @TiceNews | LinkedIn: TICE News | Instagram: @tice.news | Google: Leave a Review