9-Year of Startup India: Building the World’s 3rd Largest Startup Ecosystem

On January 16, 2025, India celebrates 9-year of Startup India, a transformative initiative launched in 2016 to foster entrepreneurship and innovation. Designated as National Startup Day, this milestone highlights India’s remarkable journey towards becoming the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem.

Growth of the Startup Ecosystem

As of January 15, 2025, India proudly hosts over 1.59 lakh DPIIT-recognised startups, a monumental rise from just 500 in 2016. This ecosystem thrives on innovation, with over 100 unicorns shaping industries and contributing to global progress. Major hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR lead the way, while smaller cities increasingly bolster entrepreneurial growth.

Startups in sectors like fintech, edtech, health tech, and e-commerce have addressed local challenges and achieved global recognition. Companies such as Zomato, Nykaa, and Ola exemplify this transformation, driving job creation and economic progress.

Key Milestones of Startup India

The Startup India initiative has achieved significant milestones over the past nine years:

• DPIIT-recognised startups grew from 500 in 2016 to 1,59,157 in 2025.
• Women-led startups rose, with 73,151 having at least one woman director as of October 31, 2024.
• Recognised startups created over 16.6 lakh direct jobs between 2016 and October 2024, contributing significantly to employment.

Industry Contributions to Job Creation

Startups have been pivotal in creating jobs across various sectors:

• IT Services: 2.04 lakh jobs.
• Healthcare & Lifesciences: 1.47 lakh jobs.
• Professional & Commercial Services: 94,000 jobs.

These contributions underline the importance of startups in driving economic growth and enhancing employment opportunities.

BHASKAR: Transforming the Startup Ecosystem

In September 2024, DPIIT introduced the Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) to centralise and enhance ecosystem interactions. Key features include:

• Seamless Networking: Connecting startups with investors, mentors, and stakeholders.
• Centralised Resources: Quick access to tools and knowledge for growth.
• Personalised BHASKAR IDs: Streamlined interactions for stakeholders.
• Global Outreach: Enabling international collaborations.
• Regional Empowerment: Supporting startups in non-metro regions.

Startup Mahakumbh: Showcasing India’s Entrepreneurial Spirit

The Startup Mahakumbh serves as a flagship event to celebrate entrepreneurial innovation.

• The 2024 edition drew 48,000 attendees, 1,300 exhibitors, and delegations from 14 countries.
• The 5th edition, scheduled for March 7-8, 2025, in New Delhi, promises to bring together startups, unicorns, soonicorns, investors, and industry leaders, fostering collaboration and growth.

Conclusion: India’s Innovation Milestone

Nine years of Startup India signify a transformative journey that has solidified India’s position as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. With over 1.59 lakh startups and robust contributions to employment, innovation, and inclusivity, India’s entrepreneurial journey continues to inspire. Initiatives like BHASKAR and events like Startup Mahakumbh underscore the programme’s impact on driving economic growth and fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem.

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