How has India reached 1.76 lakh registered startups and 118 unicorns?
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Synopsis
India's startup ecosystem is booming, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing 1.76 lakh registered startups and 118 unicorns. This surge not only showcases youth entrepreneurship but also highlights the government's supportive initiatives over the last 11 years. Discover how these developments are shaping the future of innovation and job creation in the country.
Key Takeaways
- 1.76 lakh registered startups in India.
- 118 unicorns valued at $1 billion and above.
- Over 1.6 crore youth trained under PMKVY.
- Expansion of Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups.
- Government initiatives supporting youth entrepreneurship.
New Delhi, June 6 (NationPress) The tally of registered startups has soared to 1.76 lakh over the past 11 years, alongside 118 unicorns (startups valued at $1 billion and above), which has significantly propelled youth entrepreneurship, stated Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday.
In a post shared on the social media platform X, the Finance Minister emphasized that "youth in India are establishing startups and generating employment opportunities."
This is "a testament to the initiatives undertaken for the youth in the past 11 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," she added.
In a separate X post, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, highlighted that within the last 11 years, seven new IITs, eight new IIMs, and 16 new AIIMS have been established.
"Over 1.6 crore youth have been trained under PMKVY (Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana), resulting in more than 17.6 lakh direct jobs created from 1.6 lakh startups. Close to 30,000 vocational education institutions have been set up, enrolling over 30 lakh students," the minister mentioned.
In the past 11 years, "more than 52.5 crore collateral-free Mudra loans have been distributed to small enterprises, with loans exceeding Rs 33 crore totaling over Rs 1 lakh crore. The PM Internship Scheme facilitated internship opportunities for 1 crore youth in the top 500 companies. Approximately 490 new universities have been founded to enhance higher education accessibility across the nation," Puri stated.
Recently, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, announced the expansion of the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), which has raised the guarantee cover limit per borrower from Rs 10 crore to Rs 20 crore.
The government also noted that the guarantee cover has been increased to 85 percent for loan defaults up to Rs 10 crore and 75 percent for amounts exceeding that.
Aligned with PM Modi's vision for evolving India into an innovation-centric self-sufficient economy, these expansions are designed to meet the financial demands of innovation-focused startups. The improved scheme aims to lessen the perceived risks associated with lending to startups within established financial institutions, thus enabling a greater financial influx and providing startups with the runway needed for research, development, and pioneering innovations.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the pivotal role the Indian government has played in fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem. The rise in registered startups and unicorns reflects a commitment to youth empowerment and innovation. This growth not only generates employment but also positions India as a significant player in the global economy. The sustained focus on education and financial support is crucial for maintaining this momentum.
NationPress
24/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current number of registered startups in India?
India currently has 1.76 lakh registered startups.
How many unicorns are there in India?
India has 118 unicorns, which are startups valued at over $1 billion.
What initiatives support youth entrepreneurship in India?
The government has launched various initiatives like PMKVY and the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups to support youth entrepreneurship.
What is the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups?
The CGSS provides financial guarantees to startups, increasing the ceiling on guarantee cover per borrower to Rs 20 crore.
How many jobs have been created from startups?
Over 17.6 lakh direct jobs have been created through 1.6 lakh startups.
