Startup India is an ambitious initiative launched by the Government of India on 16th January 2016 to create a thriving ecosystem for nurturing startups and promoting entrepreneurship in the country. With a focus on economic growth, job creation, and women empowerment, this initiative has garnered significant momentum, with numerous schemes and measures designed to support and uplift startups, particularly those led by women. Let’s explore the various facets of Startup India and how it’s paving the way for a dynamic and sustainable entrepreneurial landscape.
Recognizing and Nurturing Startups
- Entities recognized as startups by DPIIT as per G.S.R. notification 127 (E) dated 19th February 2019.
- Over 86,000 startups recognized in more than 660 districts across India, with at least one woman director in over 46% of them.
Measures for Women Entrepreneurs
- 10% fund reservation for women-led startups in the Fund of Funds for Startups Scheme.
- Virtual Incubation Program for Women Entrepreneurs to support tech startups with pro-bono acceleration.
- Dedicated webpage on the Startup India portal for policy measures for women entrepreneurs.
Capacity Building and Awareness
- Awareness and Capacity Building Workshops for women entrepreneurs.
- WING program for capacity development of existing and aspiring women entrepreneurs.
- Government-led programs and social media campaigns to create awareness about schemes supporting women entrepreneurs.
Startup India Initiatives: Gender-Neutral Measures
Action Plan for Startup India: A comprehensive plan to create a vibrant startup ecosystem.
Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) Scheme: Providing funding support to startups at various stages.
Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS): Ensuring credit guarantees for DPIIT-recognized startups.
Regulatory Reforms: Simplifying regulatory processes and reducing compliance burden.
Ease of Procurement: Relaxing conditions for startups in public procurement on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
Intellectual Property Protection: Fast-tracked patent examination and reduced fees for startups.
Self-Certification under Labour and Environmental Laws: Allowing startups to self-certify compliance for a specified period.
Income Tax Exemption: Three years of income tax exemption for recognized startups.
International Market Access: Establishing bridges with over 15 countries to connect Indian startups globally.
Faster Exit for Startups: Expedited wind-up process for startups.
Startup India Initiatives: The Way Ahead
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): Providing financial assistance to startups at the early stages.
National Startup Awards (NSA): Recognizing outstanding startups and ecosystem enablers.
States’ Startup Ranking Framework (SRF): Encouraging competitiveness among states for a flourishing startup ecosystem.
Startup Champions on Doordarshan: A platform to showcase award-winning and nationally recognized startups.
Startup India Innovation Week: Celebrating entrepreneurship and promoting innovation through national events.
Conclusion
Startup India has emerged as a game-changer for the Indian startup ecosystem, fostering innovation, empowering women entrepreneurs, and propelling economic growth. With its diverse range of schemes and initiatives, the government is actively creating an enabling environment for startups to flourish and contribute significantly to the nation’s progress. As we move forward, Startup India’s focus on gender-neutral measures and women empowerment will continue to drive India’s startup culture towards greater heights
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