Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 16 marked ten years of the Startup India initiative, calling it a movement that has reshaped India’s innovation and economic landscape by enabling young entrepreneurs to convert ideas into scalable enterprises and become job creators.
From policy launch to a nationwide movement
Launched in January 2016, Startup India aimed to build a robust ecosystem for entrepreneurship by cutting regulatory red tape, improving access to capital and encouraging risk-taking among founders. What began as a government programme has, the Prime Minister said, evolved into a broad-based movement driven by aspiration, innovation and confidence in Indian talent.
At the time of launch there were a few hundred startups recognised nationally; today India has more than two lakh officially registered startups spanning technology, healthcare, agriculture, education, clean energy and manufacturing. This expansion, supported by sustained policy measures and ecosystem-building efforts, has helped position India among the world’s leading startup hubs.
Unicorn growth and employment impact
A visible indicator of the programme’s success has been the rise in unicorns. From a handful a decade ago, India now hosts over a hundred unicorns that have gained international recognition for scale and innovation.
Beyond valuations, the startup ecosystem has contributed materially to jobs and livelihoods. Estimates indicate the sector has generated more than 20 lakh direct jobs, helping drive youth employment and local economic activity. The Prime Minister highlighted that startups are increasingly solving practical problems while building sustainable businesses.
Geographic spread and inclusive participation
Modi noted that the startup revolution is no longer confined to Bengaluru, Mumbai or other large metros. Thousands of companies are emerging from Tier‑2 and Tier‑3 cities, signalling deeper geographic penetration of entrepreneurial activity.
Women entrepreneurs, rural innovators and first‑generation founders have become more prominent participants, reflecting a widening base of inclusion that the government cites as a key achievement of the past decade.
Focus areas for the next phase
The Prime Minister urged startups to orient towards emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, deep tech, space technology, biotechnology and sustainable solutions that address global challenges. He also stressed manufacturing, product development and global competitiveness, urging Indian firms to build world‑class products rooted in domestic needs.
The government reiterated its commitment to support entrepreneurs through policy reforms, funding mechanisms and innovation platforms as the ecosystem matures towards higher quality growth and technological leadership.
Outlook for the coming decade
As Startup India enters its second decade, attention is expected to shift from rapid expansion to deepening technological capabilities and scaling globally. The ten‑year milestone, the Prime Minister said, reflects India’s entrepreneurial vigour and growing confidence on the world stage, positioning startups to play a central role in the country’s economic trajectory.
