India celebrates National Startup Day, Marks 10 years of startup India initiative

India celebrated National Startup Day today, marking a major milestone as the country completed a decade of the Startup India initiative, launched in 2016 to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to everyone associated with the startup ecosystem and highlighted the transformative role startups have played in India’s economic and social development . He said the day celebrates the courage, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit, especially of the youth, who have driven India’s rise as a global startup hub.

Describing startups as “engines of change”, the Prime Minister said they are shaping the future of the economy by addressing global challenges while creating employment and opportunities . He expressed pride in entrepreneurs who dared to dream big, challenged conventional norms, and created meaningful impact through innovation.

Shri Modi noted that government reforms over the past decade have created a conducive environment for startups to enter sectors once considered unthinkable, such as space and defence. Emphasising their role in building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting young innovators willing to take risks. He also acknowledged the contribution of mentors, incubators, investors, and academic institutions in nurturing innovation and advancing the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

Echoing these views, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal described Startup India as a pathbreaking initiative, noting that over two lakh startups have been recognised, generating more than 21 lakh jobs. He highlighted growing inclusivity, with increased participation from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, women, and young founders.

The government has introduced several schemes under Startup India , including the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, Fund of Funds for Startups, Credit Guarantee Scheme, Atal Innovation Mission, SAMRIDH, Stand-Up India, and MUDRA Yojana, facilitating funding access, easing compliance, and encouraging innovation across sectors.

Startup founders welcomed the progress, noting a shift towards sustainable growth and real-world problem solving, while also flagging challenges such as funding delays and limited access in smaller towns.

Entrepreneurs observed that while running a startup is far more demanding than a conventional 9-to-5 job, the growing startup culture is changing mindsets, breaking the notion that careers are limited to engineering or medicine, and opening diverse pathways in innovation and entrepreneurship.