India’s startup ecosystem is booming. As of January 15, 2025, DPIIT has recognized over 1.59 lakh startups. India now has the third largest startup ecosystem in the world because of these startups, which are the foundation of the national economy and have generated 16.6 lakh jobs.
Startup growth since 2016
Post the launch of Startup India in 2016, India has seen exponential growth in startups. DPIIT data shows a massive increase in recognized startups from 500 in 2016 to 1,59,157 by January 2025. This is a maturing ecosystem and a government that is serious about innovation.
The employment impact is equally impressive, with startups creating 16.6 lakh jobs directly. Creating over 94,000 professional and commercial services jobs shows how startups make a difference across industries. This employment growth is due to startups addressing India’s labour market challenges and offering opportunities and hope to millions of people.
This employment growth shows the startup ecosystem is addressing India’s job market challenges. An interesting fact is that 73,151 startups have at least one woman director. Government data shows this is a significant milestone in empowering women in entrepreneurship.
National Startup Day
On 16th Jan 2025, India will be celebrating 9 years of Startup India which has been declared as National Startup Day. This day is to mark the country’s progress in creating an ecosystem for entrepreneurship.
Major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi NCR are still leading the way. But smaller cities are catching up fast and contributing to the country’s startup momentum. Startups in fintech, edtech, health tech and e-commerce have solved local problems and got global recognition.
Role of Startup Mahakumbh
The 4th edition of Startup Mahakumbh 2024 was a big event with 48,000 attendees, 1300 exhibitors and delegations from 14 countries. It was a reflection of the energy of Indian entrepreneurship. The 5th edition is scheduled for 7-8th March 2025 in New Delhi and will build upon this momentum.
BHASKAR: A game changer
Launched in September 2024, the Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) platform is to centralise and simplify interactions within the Indian startup ecosystem. It is in line with the Startup India mission to bring collaboration and accessibility to entrepreneurs.
It’s not just the metros which have the startup story of India. The Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are becoming hotbeds of innovation. With government support, Startup Mahakumbh and BHASKAR, India is all set to get stronger as a global startup hub.
As India celebrates entrepreneurship, it sets the stage for the future. By being inclusive, innovative and employment-generating the country is inspiring the world.
