India’s entrepreneurial revolution hits a landmark milestone as Startup India completes 10 years, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to connect directly with the vibrant community driving it forward. Scheduled as a high-profile virtual and in-person session, the event promises candid exchanges on growth trajectories and opportunities ahead.
From humble beginnings, Startup India has scripted an extraordinary journey. It has nurtured over 1.2 lakh DPIIT-recognized startups, spawned 117 unicorns, and generated direct and indirect employment for crores. The program’s multifaceted approach—spanning seed funding, mentorship, and ease-of-doing-business reforms—has positioned India as a global startup powerhouse, trailing only the US and China.
During the interaction, PM Modi will delve into sector-specific insights, celebrate trailblazers, and explore scaling strategies. Participants include founders of marquee startups, venture capitalists, and ecosystem enablers. Topics on the agenda range from boosting deep-tech ventures to enhancing women-led entrepreneurship and sustainable innovations.
This anniversary coincides with robust government backing, including the ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds via SIDBI and relaxed compliance norms. India’s startup funding peaked at $24 billion in 2021, reflecting investor confidence. Yet, challenges like late-stage capital and global competition persist, which the PM’s session aims to tackle head-on.
Looking ahead, the dialogue signals bolder ambitions: aiming for 1 lakh startups annually and a trillion-dollar digital economy contribution. As Modi champions ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ this event embodies inclusive growth, inspiring the next generation of risk-takers to shape India’s future.
