How is STPI’s Expansion Driving IT Growth in India's Non-Metro Regions?
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Synopsis
India's IT industry is shifting focus from metro cities to non-metro regions, thanks to STPI’s expansion. This transformation is not only boosting software exports but also generating millions of jobs and fostering innovation in emerging tech sectors. Discover how these initiatives are reshaping the digital landscape across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- STPI's network consists of 68 centres, with a majority in non-metro cities.
- Software exports reached $224.4 billion in FY 2024-25, showcasing significant growth.
- Job creation in non-metro regions has reached nearly 3 lakh positions.
- Patent filings increased dramatically, indicating a strong focus on innovation.
- Government initiatives are fostering youth-led digital innovation in the tech sector.
New Delhi, Aug 6 (NationPress) India’s IT sector is undergoing a significant transformation as expansion occurs beyond major metro areas, fueled by the government-supported Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), as reported to Parliament on Wednesday.
In FY 2024-25, India's software exports reached $224.4 billion, an increase from $136 billion in 2019, while the total revenue from the IT industry amounted to $282.6 billion. This sector now employs 5.8 million individuals, a notable rise from 4.14 million in 2019, as stated by Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written response to the Lok Sabha.
The data shared by the minister highlights that the expanding influence of STPI in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities is driving software exports, fostering innovation, and generating employment.
The STPI network currently comprises 68 centres, with 60 located in non-metro cities such as Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Vijayawada, and Jajpur.
In the past five years, 9 new STPI centres and 15 Centres of Entrepreneurship (CoEs) have been established to support startups in emerging technology fields like AI, blockchain, agritech, and gaming, according to Vaishnaw.
These initiatives have resulted in the creation of 2.98 lakh jobs in non-metro areas through STPI-registered units, alongside an additional 9,800 jobs via startup incubation programs.
Under government schemes, a total of 1,121 startups have received assistance, with $39.86 crore disbursed to 590 startups.
The Next Generation Incubation Scheme (NGIS) and various digital innovation initiatives have bolstered India's standing in the global software product market.
Patent applications from Indian startups have surged from 4,331 in 2019 to nearly 90,000 in 2024, indicating a rising emphasis on intellectual property and product innovation.
Furthermore, the minister noted an increasing trend in youth-led digital innovation under initiatives such as GENESIS, TIDE 2.0, and SAMRIDH, which align with the National Policy on Software Products (NPSP) 2019.
With total software exports from STPI-registered units surpassing Rs 10.64 lakh crore, the government's push for decentralized IT growth is yielding substantial outcomes.
By promoting innovation in smaller towns, India is constructing a more inclusive and resilient digital economy, stated Vaishnaw.
Point of View
It is evident that the ongoing growth of the IT sector in India's non-metro regions is a significant step towards equitable development. The government's strategic push through STPI is fostering innovation, creating jobs, and enhancing the country's global standing in technology. Such efforts are essential for a balanced economic advancement, ensuring that tech opportunities are accessible to all.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the impact of STPI on India's IT sector?
STPI's expansion into non-metro cities is significantly boosting software exports, creating jobs, and fostering innovation in emerging technologies.
How many jobs have been created through STPI initiatives?
Approximately 2.98 lakh jobs have been created in non-metro areas through STPI-registered units, with additional jobs from incubation programs.
What are the key focus areas for startups supported by STPI?
STPI supports startups in various emerging tech fields, including AI, blockchain, agritech, and gaming.
