Yojana Magazine April 2023 - 3 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


50 April 2023
ntrepreneurship and innovation are 
essential drivers of economic growth 
and development. India, like many 
other countries, has recognised the 
importance of promoting entrepreneurship and 
innovation, and has taken several initiatives in 
this direction. one such initiative is the Startup 
India programme launched in the year 2016. 
The objective of this initiative is to promote 
entrepreneurship and create job opportunities for 
the youth of India. The initiative focuses on creating 
a favourable environment for the growth of startups 
in the country, including providing funding, tax 
benefits, and other incentives. The initiative aims 
to create a robust ecosystem for startups, including 
incubators, accelerators, and funding agencies. 
The Startup India initiative has three main 
components: simplification and handholding, 
funding support and incentives, and industry-
academia partnership and incubation. Under the 
simplification and handholding component, the 
government has simplified the process of starting 
a business in India by reducing the time and cost 
required to start a business. The government has 
E
Startup India is aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and promoting 
innovation among Indian youth. It was launched in January 2016 
with the objective of creating a conducive ecosystem for the growth 
of startups and promoting sustainable economic development. This 
initiative is a structural reform that has been adopted in the state policy 
of India, and it has the potential to create a significant impact on the 
Indian economy and benefit the marginalised communities of India. 
also launched an online portal for startups, which 
provides information and guidance on various 
aspects of starting and running a business. The 
funding support and incentives component 
provides various incentives for startups, including 
tax benefits, patent registration, and funding 
support. The industry-academia partnership and 
incubation component focuses on creating a 
network of incubators and accelerators across the 
country, which can provide mentoring, networking, 
and funding support to startups.
impact on the indian economy
The Startup India initiative has had a significant 
impact on the Indian economy, particularly in terms 
of job creation and economic growth. According to 
a report by the national Association of Software 
and Services Companies (nASSCoM), the Indian 
startup ecosystem is expected to create over 
500,000 new jobs by 2025. The initiative has also 
attracted significant foreign investment, with the 
total funding raised by Indian startups increasing 
from $3.9 billion in 2014 to $14.5 billion in 2019. 
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of innovation and entrepreneurship in India. 
reBant Juyal the author is faculty, Assam University, Silchar. email: rb.juyal27@gmail.com
StartupS 
reaching the laSt mile 
Page 2


50 April 2023
ntrepreneurship and innovation are 
essential drivers of economic growth 
and development. India, like many 
other countries, has recognised the 
importance of promoting entrepreneurship and 
innovation, and has taken several initiatives in 
this direction. one such initiative is the Startup 
India programme launched in the year 2016. 
The objective of this initiative is to promote 
entrepreneurship and create job opportunities for 
the youth of India. The initiative focuses on creating 
a favourable environment for the growth of startups 
in the country, including providing funding, tax 
benefits, and other incentives. The initiative aims 
to create a robust ecosystem for startups, including 
incubators, accelerators, and funding agencies. 
The Startup India initiative has three main 
components: simplification and handholding, 
funding support and incentives, and industry-
academia partnership and incubation. Under the 
simplification and handholding component, the 
government has simplified the process of starting 
a business in India by reducing the time and cost 
required to start a business. The government has 
E
Startup India is aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and promoting 
innovation among Indian youth. It was launched in January 2016 
with the objective of creating a conducive ecosystem for the growth 
of startups and promoting sustainable economic development. This 
initiative is a structural reform that has been adopted in the state policy 
of India, and it has the potential to create a significant impact on the 
Indian economy and benefit the marginalised communities of India. 
also launched an online portal for startups, which 
provides information and guidance on various 
aspects of starting and running a business. The 
funding support and incentives component 
provides various incentives for startups, including 
tax benefits, patent registration, and funding 
support. The industry-academia partnership and 
incubation component focuses on creating a 
network of incubators and accelerators across the 
country, which can provide mentoring, networking, 
and funding support to startups.
impact on the indian economy
The Startup India initiative has had a significant 
impact on the Indian economy, particularly in terms 
of job creation and economic growth. According to 
a report by the national Association of Software 
and Services Companies (nASSCoM), the Indian 
startup ecosystem is expected to create over 
500,000 new jobs by 2025. The initiative has also 
attracted significant foreign investment, with the 
total funding raised by Indian startups increasing 
from $3.9 billion in 2014 to $14.5 billion in 2019. 
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of innovation and entrepreneurship in India. 
reBant Juyal the author is faculty, Assam University, Silchar. email: rb.juyal27@gmail.com
StartupS 
reaching the laSt mile 
51 April 2023
According to the Global Innovation Index, India’s 
rank in innovation has improved from 81
st
 in 2015 
to 48
th
 in 2021. The initiative has also encouraged 
the growth of startups in various sectors, including 
technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
c hallenges and Limitations
Despite the significant impact of the Startup 
India initiative, it faces several challenges and 
limitations. one of the main challenges is the lack 
of access to funding for startups, particularly for 
early-stage startups. Although the government 
has launched various funding schemes, accessing 
funding is still a challenge for many startups. 
Another challenge is the lack of skilled manpower 
in the startup ecosystem. Many startups struggle 
to find skilled employees with relevant expertise 
and experience. Another limitation of the Startup 
India initiative is its focus on technology startups. 
Although technology startups have attracted 
significant funding and attention, other sectors, 
such as healthcare, agriculture, and education still 
have untapped potential. 
The Startup India initiative has been successful in 
promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the 
country. According to a report by nASSCoM, India 
is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world, 
with over 50,000 startups operating in the country. 
The initiative has led to the creation of over 4.2 
lakh jobs in the startup sector, and Indian startups 
have attracted significant foreign investment. 
The Indian startup ecosystem is characterised by 
a young and vibrant workforce, with a significant 
focus on technology and digitalisation. India’s large 
population and growing middle class provide a vast 
market for startups, and the increasing adoption 
of technology and digitalisation is creating 
opportunities for startups in areas such as fintech, 
e-commerce, and healthcare. The Government’s 
focus on promoting innovation through initiatives 
such as the Atal Innovation Mission and the Smart 
Cities Mission is also creating opportunities for 
startups.
The Startup India initiative aims to create a 
conducive ecosystem for the growth of startups by 
providing them with access to funding, mentorship, 
and other support services. The initiative provides 
startups with access to funding through various 
schemes such as the Fund of Funds for Startups, 
Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Startups, and 
the Atal Innovation Mission. The initiative also offers 
tax incentives such as tax holidays and exemptions 
for startups.
However, the initiative also faces several legal 
challenges. The regulatory framework for startups 
in India is complex and often cumbersome, 
making it difficult for startups to comply with the 
regulations. There is also a lack of clarity on the 
definition of a startup, which creates confusion 
and ambiguity in the regulatory framework. 
Additionally, there is a need to strengthen the 
legal framework for intellectual property rights to 
protect the innovations of startups.
The startup ecosystems of the USA, Japan, and 
India share several similarities and differences. The 
USA has a well-established and mature startup 
ecosystem, with a significant focus on technology 
and innovation. The country has a large and 
diversified pool of venture capital funds and 
angel investors, providing startups with access 
to funding. Japan, on the other hand, has a more 
traditional business environment, with a focus 
on large corporations. However, the country has 
taken several initiatives in recent years to promote 
entrepreneurship and innovation. The Japanese 
government has launched several programs such 
as the Japan Revitalization Strategy and the Japan 
Innovation network to foster the growth of startups.
Compared to the USA and Japan, the Indian 
startup ecosystem is relatively young and still 
evolving. However, the country has made significant 
progress in recent years, with the launch of the 
Startup India initiative and other initiatives aimed 
Page 3


50 April 2023
ntrepreneurship and innovation are 
essential drivers of economic growth 
and development. India, like many 
other countries, has recognised the 
importance of promoting entrepreneurship and 
innovation, and has taken several initiatives in 
this direction. one such initiative is the Startup 
India programme launched in the year 2016. 
The objective of this initiative is to promote 
entrepreneurship and create job opportunities for 
the youth of India. The initiative focuses on creating 
a favourable environment for the growth of startups 
in the country, including providing funding, tax 
benefits, and other incentives. The initiative aims 
to create a robust ecosystem for startups, including 
incubators, accelerators, and funding agencies. 
The Startup India initiative has three main 
components: simplification and handholding, 
funding support and incentives, and industry-
academia partnership and incubation. Under the 
simplification and handholding component, the 
government has simplified the process of starting 
a business in India by reducing the time and cost 
required to start a business. The government has 
E
Startup India is aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and promoting 
innovation among Indian youth. It was launched in January 2016 
with the objective of creating a conducive ecosystem for the growth 
of startups and promoting sustainable economic development. This 
initiative is a structural reform that has been adopted in the state policy 
of India, and it has the potential to create a significant impact on the 
Indian economy and benefit the marginalised communities of India. 
also launched an online portal for startups, which 
provides information and guidance on various 
aspects of starting and running a business. The 
funding support and incentives component 
provides various incentives for startups, including 
tax benefits, patent registration, and funding 
support. The industry-academia partnership and 
incubation component focuses on creating a 
network of incubators and accelerators across the 
country, which can provide mentoring, networking, 
and funding support to startups.
impact on the indian economy
The Startup India initiative has had a significant 
impact on the Indian economy, particularly in terms 
of job creation and economic growth. According to 
a report by the national Association of Software 
and Services Companies (nASSCoM), the Indian 
startup ecosystem is expected to create over 
500,000 new jobs by 2025. The initiative has also 
attracted significant foreign investment, with the 
total funding raised by Indian startups increasing 
from $3.9 billion in 2014 to $14.5 billion in 2019. 
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of innovation and entrepreneurship in India. 
reBant Juyal the author is faculty, Assam University, Silchar. email: rb.juyal27@gmail.com
StartupS 
reaching the laSt mile 
51 April 2023
According to the Global Innovation Index, India’s 
rank in innovation has improved from 81
st
 in 2015 
to 48
th
 in 2021. The initiative has also encouraged 
the growth of startups in various sectors, including 
technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
c hallenges and Limitations
Despite the significant impact of the Startup 
India initiative, it faces several challenges and 
limitations. one of the main challenges is the lack 
of access to funding for startups, particularly for 
early-stage startups. Although the government 
has launched various funding schemes, accessing 
funding is still a challenge for many startups. 
Another challenge is the lack of skilled manpower 
in the startup ecosystem. Many startups struggle 
to find skilled employees with relevant expertise 
and experience. Another limitation of the Startup 
India initiative is its focus on technology startups. 
Although technology startups have attracted 
significant funding and attention, other sectors, 
such as healthcare, agriculture, and education still 
have untapped potential. 
The Startup India initiative has been successful in 
promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the 
country. According to a report by nASSCoM, India 
is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world, 
with over 50,000 startups operating in the country. 
The initiative has led to the creation of over 4.2 
lakh jobs in the startup sector, and Indian startups 
have attracted significant foreign investment. 
The Indian startup ecosystem is characterised by 
a young and vibrant workforce, with a significant 
focus on technology and digitalisation. India’s large 
population and growing middle class provide a vast 
market for startups, and the increasing adoption 
of technology and digitalisation is creating 
opportunities for startups in areas such as fintech, 
e-commerce, and healthcare. The Government’s 
focus on promoting innovation through initiatives 
such as the Atal Innovation Mission and the Smart 
Cities Mission is also creating opportunities for 
startups.
The Startup India initiative aims to create a 
conducive ecosystem for the growth of startups by 
providing them with access to funding, mentorship, 
and other support services. The initiative provides 
startups with access to funding through various 
schemes such as the Fund of Funds for Startups, 
Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Startups, and 
the Atal Innovation Mission. The initiative also offers 
tax incentives such as tax holidays and exemptions 
for startups.
However, the initiative also faces several legal 
challenges. The regulatory framework for startups 
in India is complex and often cumbersome, 
making it difficult for startups to comply with the 
regulations. There is also a lack of clarity on the 
definition of a startup, which creates confusion 
and ambiguity in the regulatory framework. 
Additionally, there is a need to strengthen the 
legal framework for intellectual property rights to 
protect the innovations of startups.
The startup ecosystems of the USA, Japan, and 
India share several similarities and differences. The 
USA has a well-established and mature startup 
ecosystem, with a significant focus on technology 
and innovation. The country has a large and 
diversified pool of venture capital funds and 
angel investors, providing startups with access 
to funding. Japan, on the other hand, has a more 
traditional business environment, with a focus 
on large corporations. However, the country has 
taken several initiatives in recent years to promote 
entrepreneurship and innovation. The Japanese 
government has launched several programs such 
as the Japan Revitalization Strategy and the Japan 
Innovation network to foster the growth of startups.
Compared to the USA and Japan, the Indian 
startup ecosystem is relatively young and still 
evolving. However, the country has made significant 
progress in recent years, with the launch of the 
Startup India initiative and other initiatives aimed 
52 April 2023
at promoting entrepreneurship and innovation. 
The Indian startup ecosystem is characterised by a 
focus on technology and digitalization, with a large 
and growing market for startups.
The Startup India initiative has provided various 
incentives and support to entrepreneurs, including 
those from marginalised communities. This had a 
positive impact on the development of marginalised 
communities in India. The initiative has provided 
opportunities for marginalised communities to 
participate in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and 
has helped in the creation of job opportunities. 
For instance, the Stand-Up India scheme provides 
loans to women and SC/ST entrepreneurs to start 
new ventures. Similarly, the national Handicapped 
Finance and Development Corporation provides 
financial assistance to people with disabilities to 
start their businesses. These schemes have helped 
marginalised communities overcome the financial 
barriers to entrepreneurship.
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of startups in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, 
and education, which have the potential to benefit 
marginalised communities. Start-ups in the 
agriculture sector can provide market access and 
technology support to small and marginal farmers, 
while startups in the healthcare sector can provide 
affordable healthcare services to underserved 
communities. Similarly, startups in the education 
sector can provide access to quality education 
to children from marginalised communities. 
Moreover, the initiative has provided a platform 
for the empowerment of women and the inclusion 
of marginalised communities in the mainstream 
economy. According to a report by the Ministry of 
Commerce and Industry, the number of women-
led startups in India has increased by 50% since 
the launch of the initiative. Similarly, the initiative 
has helped in the inclusion of SC/ST entrepreneurs 
in the mainstream economy, who were previously 
excluded due to discrimination and lack of access 
to resources.
Furthermore, the initiative has provided a 
boost to the Indian economy and has contributed 
to economic growth. According to a report by 
nASSCoM, the Indian startup ecosystem is expected 
to create 12-15 million direct jobs by 2025. The 
growth of startups in sectors such as e-commerce, 
fintech, and health-tech has also attracted 
significant foreign investment, contributing to the 
growth of the Indian economy
Despite these efforts, the impact of the Startup 
India initiative on the development of marginalised 
communities in India has been limited. The 
majority of startups in India are concentrated in 
urban areas and are led by people from privileged 
backgrounds. According to a report by oxfam 
India, only 17% of startups in India are founded by 
women, and less than 1% are founded by people 
with disabilities. Similarly, startups in sectors such 
as healthcare and education are mostly focused 
on urban areas and serve the needs of the affluent 
population. Moreover, the initiative has not 
adequately addressed the structural challenges 
faced by marginalised communities in India, such 
as social discrimination, lack of access to education 
and training, and limited access to finance. 
These challenges limit the ability of marginalised 
communities to participate in the entrepreneurial 
ecosystem and benefit from the initiative.
c onclusion
The Startup India initiative has been successful 
in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in 
the country. The initiative has created a conducive 
ecosystem for the growth of startups by providing 
them with access to funding, mentorship, and 
other support services. However, the initiative also 
faces several legal challenges, such as the complex 
regulatory framework and the lack of clarity on 
The Indian startup 
ecosystem is characterised 
by a young and vibrant 
workforce, with a significant 
focus on technology 
and digitalisation. The 
Government's focus on 
promoting innovation 
through initiatives such 
as the Atal Innovation 
Mission and the Smart Cities 
Mission is also creating 
opportunities for startups.
Page 4


50 April 2023
ntrepreneurship and innovation are 
essential drivers of economic growth 
and development. India, like many 
other countries, has recognised the 
importance of promoting entrepreneurship and 
innovation, and has taken several initiatives in 
this direction. one such initiative is the Startup 
India programme launched in the year 2016. 
The objective of this initiative is to promote 
entrepreneurship and create job opportunities for 
the youth of India. The initiative focuses on creating 
a favourable environment for the growth of startups 
in the country, including providing funding, tax 
benefits, and other incentives. The initiative aims 
to create a robust ecosystem for startups, including 
incubators, accelerators, and funding agencies. 
The Startup India initiative has three main 
components: simplification and handholding, 
funding support and incentives, and industry-
academia partnership and incubation. Under the 
simplification and handholding component, the 
government has simplified the process of starting 
a business in India by reducing the time and cost 
required to start a business. The government has 
E
Startup India is aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and promoting 
innovation among Indian youth. It was launched in January 2016 
with the objective of creating a conducive ecosystem for the growth 
of startups and promoting sustainable economic development. This 
initiative is a structural reform that has been adopted in the state policy 
of India, and it has the potential to create a significant impact on the 
Indian economy and benefit the marginalised communities of India. 
also launched an online portal for startups, which 
provides information and guidance on various 
aspects of starting and running a business. The 
funding support and incentives component 
provides various incentives for startups, including 
tax benefits, patent registration, and funding 
support. The industry-academia partnership and 
incubation component focuses on creating a 
network of incubators and accelerators across the 
country, which can provide mentoring, networking, 
and funding support to startups.
impact on the indian economy
The Startup India initiative has had a significant 
impact on the Indian economy, particularly in terms 
of job creation and economic growth. According to 
a report by the national Association of Software 
and Services Companies (nASSCoM), the Indian 
startup ecosystem is expected to create over 
500,000 new jobs by 2025. The initiative has also 
attracted significant foreign investment, with the 
total funding raised by Indian startups increasing 
from $3.9 billion in 2014 to $14.5 billion in 2019. 
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of innovation and entrepreneurship in India. 
reBant Juyal the author is faculty, Assam University, Silchar. email: rb.juyal27@gmail.com
StartupS 
reaching the laSt mile 
51 April 2023
According to the Global Innovation Index, India’s 
rank in innovation has improved from 81
st
 in 2015 
to 48
th
 in 2021. The initiative has also encouraged 
the growth of startups in various sectors, including 
technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
c hallenges and Limitations
Despite the significant impact of the Startup 
India initiative, it faces several challenges and 
limitations. one of the main challenges is the lack 
of access to funding for startups, particularly for 
early-stage startups. Although the government 
has launched various funding schemes, accessing 
funding is still a challenge for many startups. 
Another challenge is the lack of skilled manpower 
in the startup ecosystem. Many startups struggle 
to find skilled employees with relevant expertise 
and experience. Another limitation of the Startup 
India initiative is its focus on technology startups. 
Although technology startups have attracted 
significant funding and attention, other sectors, 
such as healthcare, agriculture, and education still 
have untapped potential. 
The Startup India initiative has been successful in 
promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the 
country. According to a report by nASSCoM, India 
is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world, 
with over 50,000 startups operating in the country. 
The initiative has led to the creation of over 4.2 
lakh jobs in the startup sector, and Indian startups 
have attracted significant foreign investment. 
The Indian startup ecosystem is characterised by 
a young and vibrant workforce, with a significant 
focus on technology and digitalisation. India’s large 
population and growing middle class provide a vast 
market for startups, and the increasing adoption 
of technology and digitalisation is creating 
opportunities for startups in areas such as fintech, 
e-commerce, and healthcare. The Government’s 
focus on promoting innovation through initiatives 
such as the Atal Innovation Mission and the Smart 
Cities Mission is also creating opportunities for 
startups.
The Startup India initiative aims to create a 
conducive ecosystem for the growth of startups by 
providing them with access to funding, mentorship, 
and other support services. The initiative provides 
startups with access to funding through various 
schemes such as the Fund of Funds for Startups, 
Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Startups, and 
the Atal Innovation Mission. The initiative also offers 
tax incentives such as tax holidays and exemptions 
for startups.
However, the initiative also faces several legal 
challenges. The regulatory framework for startups 
in India is complex and often cumbersome, 
making it difficult for startups to comply with the 
regulations. There is also a lack of clarity on the 
definition of a startup, which creates confusion 
and ambiguity in the regulatory framework. 
Additionally, there is a need to strengthen the 
legal framework for intellectual property rights to 
protect the innovations of startups.
The startup ecosystems of the USA, Japan, and 
India share several similarities and differences. The 
USA has a well-established and mature startup 
ecosystem, with a significant focus on technology 
and innovation. The country has a large and 
diversified pool of venture capital funds and 
angel investors, providing startups with access 
to funding. Japan, on the other hand, has a more 
traditional business environment, with a focus 
on large corporations. However, the country has 
taken several initiatives in recent years to promote 
entrepreneurship and innovation. The Japanese 
government has launched several programs such 
as the Japan Revitalization Strategy and the Japan 
Innovation network to foster the growth of startups.
Compared to the USA and Japan, the Indian 
startup ecosystem is relatively young and still 
evolving. However, the country has made significant 
progress in recent years, with the launch of the 
Startup India initiative and other initiatives aimed 
52 April 2023
at promoting entrepreneurship and innovation. 
The Indian startup ecosystem is characterised by a 
focus on technology and digitalization, with a large 
and growing market for startups.
The Startup India initiative has provided various 
incentives and support to entrepreneurs, including 
those from marginalised communities. This had a 
positive impact on the development of marginalised 
communities in India. The initiative has provided 
opportunities for marginalised communities to 
participate in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and 
has helped in the creation of job opportunities. 
For instance, the Stand-Up India scheme provides 
loans to women and SC/ST entrepreneurs to start 
new ventures. Similarly, the national Handicapped 
Finance and Development Corporation provides 
financial assistance to people with disabilities to 
start their businesses. These schemes have helped 
marginalised communities overcome the financial 
barriers to entrepreneurship.
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of startups in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, 
and education, which have the potential to benefit 
marginalised communities. Start-ups in the 
agriculture sector can provide market access and 
technology support to small and marginal farmers, 
while startups in the healthcare sector can provide 
affordable healthcare services to underserved 
communities. Similarly, startups in the education 
sector can provide access to quality education 
to children from marginalised communities. 
Moreover, the initiative has provided a platform 
for the empowerment of women and the inclusion 
of marginalised communities in the mainstream 
economy. According to a report by the Ministry of 
Commerce and Industry, the number of women-
led startups in India has increased by 50% since 
the launch of the initiative. Similarly, the initiative 
has helped in the inclusion of SC/ST entrepreneurs 
in the mainstream economy, who were previously 
excluded due to discrimination and lack of access 
to resources.
Furthermore, the initiative has provided a 
boost to the Indian economy and has contributed 
to economic growth. According to a report by 
nASSCoM, the Indian startup ecosystem is expected 
to create 12-15 million direct jobs by 2025. The 
growth of startups in sectors such as e-commerce, 
fintech, and health-tech has also attracted 
significant foreign investment, contributing to the 
growth of the Indian economy
Despite these efforts, the impact of the Startup 
India initiative on the development of marginalised 
communities in India has been limited. The 
majority of startups in India are concentrated in 
urban areas and are led by people from privileged 
backgrounds. According to a report by oxfam 
India, only 17% of startups in India are founded by 
women, and less than 1% are founded by people 
with disabilities. Similarly, startups in sectors such 
as healthcare and education are mostly focused 
on urban areas and serve the needs of the affluent 
population. Moreover, the initiative has not 
adequately addressed the structural challenges 
faced by marginalised communities in India, such 
as social discrimination, lack of access to education 
and training, and limited access to finance. 
These challenges limit the ability of marginalised 
communities to participate in the entrepreneurial 
ecosystem and benefit from the initiative.
c onclusion
The Startup India initiative has been successful 
in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in 
the country. The initiative has created a conducive 
ecosystem for the growth of startups by providing 
them with access to funding, mentorship, and 
other support services. However, the initiative also 
faces several legal challenges, such as the complex 
regulatory framework and the lack of clarity on 
The Indian startup 
ecosystem is characterised 
by a young and vibrant 
workforce, with a significant 
focus on technology 
and digitalisation. The 
Government's focus on 
promoting innovation 
through initiatives such 
as the Atal Innovation 
Mission and the Smart Cities 
Mission is also creating 
opportunities for startups.
53 April 2023
the definition of a startup. Further, the initiative 
has encouraged the growth of startups in sectors 
such as agriculture, healthcare, and education, 
which have the potential to benefit marginalised 
communities. However, the impact of the initiative 
on the development of marginalised communities 
in India has been limited. The majority of startups 
in India are concentrated in urban areas and are led 
by people from privileged backgrounds. Moreover, 
the initiative has not adequately addressed the 
structural challenges faced by marginalised 
communities in India. Therefore, there is a need for 
a more targeted and comprehensive approach to 
promoting entrepreneurship among marginalised 
communities in India. This approach should address 
the structural challenges and provide adequate 
support and incentives to promote the growth of 
startups in marginalised communities.
Additionally, the Indian startup ecosystem has 
similarities and differences with that of the USA and 
Japan. While the USA has a mature and diversified 
startup ecosystem, Japan has a more traditional 
business environment but has taken initiatives to 
promote entrepreneurship and innovation. India, on 
the other hand, has a relatively young and evolving 
startup ecosystem but has made significant progress 
in recent years with the launch of the Startup India 
initiative. The initiative has provided startups with 
access to funding, mentorship, and other support 
services, and has created a conducive environment 
for entrepreneurship and innovation. ?
references
1. Government of India. (2016). Start-Up India Action Plan. 
Retrieved from https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/
dam/investindia/startupindia/pdfs/Startup_India_
Action_Plan.pdf
2. oxfam India. (2018). Mind the Gap: The State of Employment 
in India. Retrieved from https://www.oxfamindia.org/sites/
default/files/2018-03/Mind-the-Gap.pdf
3. national Handicapped Finance and Development 
Corporation. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.
nhfdc.nic.in/about-us
4. Stand-Up India. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://
www.standupmitra.in/aboutus.aspx
5. Singh, H. (2018). Entrepreneurship and Start-Ups in India: 
Challenges and opportunities. Journal of Innovation 
Economics & Management, 27(1), 41-54. doi: 10.3917/jie.
pr1.0027
6. Gupta, R. (2020). Start-up Ecosystem in India: Status, 
Challenges and Way Forward. Journal of Innovation 
Economics & Management, 35(1), 11-25. doi: 10.3917/jie.
pr1.0035
7. Government of India. (2016). Start Up India: Action Plan. 
Retrieved from https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/
sih/en/action_plan.html
8. oxfam India. (2019). India Inequality Report 2018: 
Widening Gaps. Retrieved from https://www.oxfamindia.
org/sites/default/files/2019-08/oxfam-Inequality-
Report-2018.pdf
9. Chatterjee, A. (2018). Start-Up India: A Comprehensive 
Analysis. Journal of Business Management & Social 
Sciences Research, 7(3), 1-8.
10. The Economic Times. (2021). Stand Up India Scheme: 
Eligibility, Benefits, Interest Rate, and How to Apply. 
Retrieved from https://economictimes.indiatimes.
com/small-biz/sme-sector/stand-up-india-scheme/
articleshow/78416343.cms
11. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. (2021). 
national Handicapped Finance and Development 
Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.nhfdc.nic.in/
frmSchemeDetails.aspx?type=1
12. Mishra, S. K., & Sinha, A. (2018). Start-up India: A Boon or 
Bane for India’s Marginalised Communities? Journal of 
Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging Economies, 
4(1), 68-76.
13. The Hindu. (2019). Start-up India: Why Women 
Entrepreneurs Are not Making the Cut. Retrieved from 
https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/startup-
india-why-women-entrepreneurs-are-not-making-the-
cut/article28329050.ece
14. Gupta, V., & Jain, R. K. (2017). Social Entrepreneurship 
and Inclusive Growth in India: The Role of Government 
and Policies. Journal of Social Entrepreneurship, 8(2), 
177-194.
Page 5


50 April 2023
ntrepreneurship and innovation are 
essential drivers of economic growth 
and development. India, like many 
other countries, has recognised the 
importance of promoting entrepreneurship and 
innovation, and has taken several initiatives in 
this direction. one such initiative is the Startup 
India programme launched in the year 2016. 
The objective of this initiative is to promote 
entrepreneurship and create job opportunities for 
the youth of India. The initiative focuses on creating 
a favourable environment for the growth of startups 
in the country, including providing funding, tax 
benefits, and other incentives. The initiative aims 
to create a robust ecosystem for startups, including 
incubators, accelerators, and funding agencies. 
The Startup India initiative has three main 
components: simplification and handholding, 
funding support and incentives, and industry-
academia partnership and incubation. Under the 
simplification and handholding component, the 
government has simplified the process of starting 
a business in India by reducing the time and cost 
required to start a business. The government has 
E
Startup India is aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and promoting 
innovation among Indian youth. It was launched in January 2016 
with the objective of creating a conducive ecosystem for the growth 
of startups and promoting sustainable economic development. This 
initiative is a structural reform that has been adopted in the state policy 
of India, and it has the potential to create a significant impact on the 
Indian economy and benefit the marginalised communities of India. 
also launched an online portal for startups, which 
provides information and guidance on various 
aspects of starting and running a business. The 
funding support and incentives component 
provides various incentives for startups, including 
tax benefits, patent registration, and funding 
support. The industry-academia partnership and 
incubation component focuses on creating a 
network of incubators and accelerators across the 
country, which can provide mentoring, networking, 
and funding support to startups.
impact on the indian economy
The Startup India initiative has had a significant 
impact on the Indian economy, particularly in terms 
of job creation and economic growth. According to 
a report by the national Association of Software 
and Services Companies (nASSCoM), the Indian 
startup ecosystem is expected to create over 
500,000 new jobs by 2025. The initiative has also 
attracted significant foreign investment, with the 
total funding raised by Indian startups increasing 
from $3.9 billion in 2014 to $14.5 billion in 2019. 
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of innovation and entrepreneurship in India. 
reBant Juyal the author is faculty, Assam University, Silchar. email: rb.juyal27@gmail.com
StartupS 
reaching the laSt mile 
51 April 2023
According to the Global Innovation Index, India’s 
rank in innovation has improved from 81
st
 in 2015 
to 48
th
 in 2021. The initiative has also encouraged 
the growth of startups in various sectors, including 
technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
c hallenges and Limitations
Despite the significant impact of the Startup 
India initiative, it faces several challenges and 
limitations. one of the main challenges is the lack 
of access to funding for startups, particularly for 
early-stage startups. Although the government 
has launched various funding schemes, accessing 
funding is still a challenge for many startups. 
Another challenge is the lack of skilled manpower 
in the startup ecosystem. Many startups struggle 
to find skilled employees with relevant expertise 
and experience. Another limitation of the Startup 
India initiative is its focus on technology startups. 
Although technology startups have attracted 
significant funding and attention, other sectors, 
such as healthcare, agriculture, and education still 
have untapped potential. 
The Startup India initiative has been successful in 
promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the 
country. According to a report by nASSCoM, India 
is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world, 
with over 50,000 startups operating in the country. 
The initiative has led to the creation of over 4.2 
lakh jobs in the startup sector, and Indian startups 
have attracted significant foreign investment. 
The Indian startup ecosystem is characterised by 
a young and vibrant workforce, with a significant 
focus on technology and digitalisation. India’s large 
population and growing middle class provide a vast 
market for startups, and the increasing adoption 
of technology and digitalisation is creating 
opportunities for startups in areas such as fintech, 
e-commerce, and healthcare. The Government’s 
focus on promoting innovation through initiatives 
such as the Atal Innovation Mission and the Smart 
Cities Mission is also creating opportunities for 
startups.
The Startup India initiative aims to create a 
conducive ecosystem for the growth of startups by 
providing them with access to funding, mentorship, 
and other support services. The initiative provides 
startups with access to funding through various 
schemes such as the Fund of Funds for Startups, 
Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Startups, and 
the Atal Innovation Mission. The initiative also offers 
tax incentives such as tax holidays and exemptions 
for startups.
However, the initiative also faces several legal 
challenges. The regulatory framework for startups 
in India is complex and often cumbersome, 
making it difficult for startups to comply with the 
regulations. There is also a lack of clarity on the 
definition of a startup, which creates confusion 
and ambiguity in the regulatory framework. 
Additionally, there is a need to strengthen the 
legal framework for intellectual property rights to 
protect the innovations of startups.
The startup ecosystems of the USA, Japan, and 
India share several similarities and differences. The 
USA has a well-established and mature startup 
ecosystem, with a significant focus on technology 
and innovation. The country has a large and 
diversified pool of venture capital funds and 
angel investors, providing startups with access 
to funding. Japan, on the other hand, has a more 
traditional business environment, with a focus 
on large corporations. However, the country has 
taken several initiatives in recent years to promote 
entrepreneurship and innovation. The Japanese 
government has launched several programs such 
as the Japan Revitalization Strategy and the Japan 
Innovation network to foster the growth of startups.
Compared to the USA and Japan, the Indian 
startup ecosystem is relatively young and still 
evolving. However, the country has made significant 
progress in recent years, with the launch of the 
Startup India initiative and other initiatives aimed 
52 April 2023
at promoting entrepreneurship and innovation. 
The Indian startup ecosystem is characterised by a 
focus on technology and digitalization, with a large 
and growing market for startups.
The Startup India initiative has provided various 
incentives and support to entrepreneurs, including 
those from marginalised communities. This had a 
positive impact on the development of marginalised 
communities in India. The initiative has provided 
opportunities for marginalised communities to 
participate in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and 
has helped in the creation of job opportunities. 
For instance, the Stand-Up India scheme provides 
loans to women and SC/ST entrepreneurs to start 
new ventures. Similarly, the national Handicapped 
Finance and Development Corporation provides 
financial assistance to people with disabilities to 
start their businesses. These schemes have helped 
marginalised communities overcome the financial 
barriers to entrepreneurship.
The initiative has also encouraged the growth 
of startups in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, 
and education, which have the potential to benefit 
marginalised communities. Start-ups in the 
agriculture sector can provide market access and 
technology support to small and marginal farmers, 
while startups in the healthcare sector can provide 
affordable healthcare services to underserved 
communities. Similarly, startups in the education 
sector can provide access to quality education 
to children from marginalised communities. 
Moreover, the initiative has provided a platform 
for the empowerment of women and the inclusion 
of marginalised communities in the mainstream 
economy. According to a report by the Ministry of 
Commerce and Industry, the number of women-
led startups in India has increased by 50% since 
the launch of the initiative. Similarly, the initiative 
has helped in the inclusion of SC/ST entrepreneurs 
in the mainstream economy, who were previously 
excluded due to discrimination and lack of access 
to resources.
Furthermore, the initiative has provided a 
boost to the Indian economy and has contributed 
to economic growth. According to a report by 
nASSCoM, the Indian startup ecosystem is expected 
to create 12-15 million direct jobs by 2025. The 
growth of startups in sectors such as e-commerce, 
fintech, and health-tech has also attracted 
significant foreign investment, contributing to the 
growth of the Indian economy
Despite these efforts, the impact of the Startup 
India initiative on the development of marginalised 
communities in India has been limited. The 
majority of startups in India are concentrated in 
urban areas and are led by people from privileged 
backgrounds. According to a report by oxfam 
India, only 17% of startups in India are founded by 
women, and less than 1% are founded by people 
with disabilities. Similarly, startups in sectors such 
as healthcare and education are mostly focused 
on urban areas and serve the needs of the affluent 
population. Moreover, the initiative has not 
adequately addressed the structural challenges 
faced by marginalised communities in India, such 
as social discrimination, lack of access to education 
and training, and limited access to finance. 
These challenges limit the ability of marginalised 
communities to participate in the entrepreneurial 
ecosystem and benefit from the initiative.
c onclusion
The Startup India initiative has been successful 
in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in 
the country. The initiative has created a conducive 
ecosystem for the growth of startups by providing 
them with access to funding, mentorship, and 
other support services. However, the initiative also 
faces several legal challenges, such as the complex 
regulatory framework and the lack of clarity on 
The Indian startup 
ecosystem is characterised 
by a young and vibrant 
workforce, with a significant 
focus on technology 
and digitalisation. The 
Government's focus on 
promoting innovation 
through initiatives such 
as the Atal Innovation 
Mission and the Smart Cities 
Mission is also creating 
opportunities for startups.
53 April 2023
the definition of a startup. Further, the initiative 
has encouraged the growth of startups in sectors 
such as agriculture, healthcare, and education, 
which have the potential to benefit marginalised 
communities. However, the impact of the initiative 
on the development of marginalised communities 
in India has been limited. The majority of startups 
in India are concentrated in urban areas and are led 
by people from privileged backgrounds. Moreover, 
the initiative has not adequately addressed the 
structural challenges faced by marginalised 
communities in India. Therefore, there is a need for 
a more targeted and comprehensive approach to 
promoting entrepreneurship among marginalised 
communities in India. This approach should address 
the structural challenges and provide adequate 
support and incentives to promote the growth of 
startups in marginalised communities.
Additionally, the Indian startup ecosystem has 
similarities and differences with that of the USA and 
Japan. While the USA has a mature and diversified 
startup ecosystem, Japan has a more traditional 
business environment but has taken initiatives to 
promote entrepreneurship and innovation. India, on 
the other hand, has a relatively young and evolving 
startup ecosystem but has made significant progress 
in recent years with the launch of the Startup India 
initiative. The initiative has provided startups with 
access to funding, mentorship, and other support 
services, and has created a conducive environment 
for entrepreneurship and innovation. ?
references
1. Government of India. (2016). Start-Up India Action Plan. 
Retrieved from https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/
dam/investindia/startupindia/pdfs/Startup_India_
Action_Plan.pdf
2. oxfam India. (2018). Mind the Gap: The State of Employment 
in India. Retrieved from https://www.oxfamindia.org/sites/
default/files/2018-03/Mind-the-Gap.pdf
3. national Handicapped Finance and Development 
Corporation. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.
nhfdc.nic.in/about-us
4. Stand-Up India. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://
www.standupmitra.in/aboutus.aspx
5. Singh, H. (2018). Entrepreneurship and Start-Ups in India: 
Challenges and opportunities. Journal of Innovation 
Economics & Management, 27(1), 41-54. doi: 10.3917/jie.
pr1.0027
6. Gupta, R. (2020). Start-up Ecosystem in India: Status, 
Challenges and Way Forward. Journal of Innovation 
Economics & Management, 35(1), 11-25. doi: 10.3917/jie.
pr1.0035
7. Government of India. (2016). Start Up India: Action Plan. 
Retrieved from https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/
sih/en/action_plan.html
8. oxfam India. (2019). India Inequality Report 2018: 
Widening Gaps. Retrieved from https://www.oxfamindia.
org/sites/default/files/2019-08/oxfam-Inequality-
Report-2018.pdf
9. Chatterjee, A. (2018). Start-Up India: A Comprehensive 
Analysis. Journal of Business Management & Social 
Sciences Research, 7(3), 1-8.
10. The Economic Times. (2021). Stand Up India Scheme: 
Eligibility, Benefits, Interest Rate, and How to Apply. 
Retrieved from https://economictimes.indiatimes.
com/small-biz/sme-sector/stand-up-india-scheme/
articleshow/78416343.cms
11. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. (2021). 
national Handicapped Finance and Development 
Corporation. Retrieved from https://www.nhfdc.nic.in/
frmSchemeDetails.aspx?type=1
12. Mishra, S. K., & Sinha, A. (2018). Start-up India: A Boon or 
Bane for India’s Marginalised Communities? Journal of 
Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging Economies, 
4(1), 68-76.
13. The Hindu. (2019). Start-up India: Why Women 
Entrepreneurs Are not Making the Cut. Retrieved from 
https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/startup-
india-why-women-entrepreneurs-are-not-making-the-
cut/article28329050.ece
14. Gupta, V., & Jain, R. K. (2017). Social Entrepreneurship 
and Inclusive Growth in India: The Role of Government 
and Policies. Journal of Social Entrepreneurship, 8(2), 
177-194.
55 April 2023
he ‘Antyodaya’ means the rise of the last 
person in society. It is a very interesting 
fact that almost all the programs related 
to the development and in the interest 
of the people, have at their center this last person, 
also called the common person. But it is often seen 
that their path to reach this person at the last mile 
is so long that the targeted beneficiary gets only 
partial benefits for any such scheme or programme. 
To address this problem effectively, Upadhyaya ji 
had conceptualised the Antyodaya.
t he philosophy of a ntyodaya
The late Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya, the 
founding father of the Antyodaya philosophy, 
had propounded the concept decades ago that 
the welfare of the poorest of the poor should be 
paramount in policy-making. He said that the 
policymakers in the Government, while making any 
plan or policy, must consider how they benefit the 
last person in the society.
Upadhyaya ji’s childhood was spent in extreme 
deprivation and poverty, and he could feel the 
suffering of the common person very closely. It 
was the reason, why he thought so earnestly about 
antyodaya and maSS media T
proF SanJay dWivedi the author is the director General, indian institute of Mass Communication, New delhi. email: dgiimc1965@gmail.com
getting the majority of the country’s population 
rid of the vicious cycle of want and poverty. He 
believed that if any section of a society, group, or 
individual undergoes suffering, it brings anguish to 
the entire society. According to him, Antyodaya is 
an essential condition for a healthy society. That is 
why, the planners of the society must be Antyodaya, 
i.e., followers of the Antyodaya principles, so that 
no person feels isolated. 
media: Promoter of a ntyodaya
Communication medium, popularly known as 
media, has always been the cornerstone of a healthy 
society and a strong democracy. Media is called the 
fourth pillar of democracy for a reason. Unlike the 
remaining three pillars of the democratic system, 
the judiciary, the legislature, and the executive, this 
is the part of this system that has access to the lives 
of people till the last mile. 
The last few centuries have witnessed the media 
often becoming the might of the common person 
all over the world. Media has that power, which 
can make any person, organisation, community, 
and society prosperous and powerful politically, 
economically, and culturally.
reaChing the laSt Mile
The function of media or mass media is to represent the common 
people in every setting. Therefore, they can contribute immensely 
to their upliftment. As a bridge between the Government and 
the public, they can transmit information to each other. One of 
the most distinguished socio-economic thinkers of the country, 
the late Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, developed the concept 
of Antyodaya, which also focuses on the welfare of the common 
people. Media can play a critical role in Antyodaya or the 
upliftment of the person at the bottom rung.