Chandigarh / Punjab: The startup ecosystem in India has seen remarkable evolution, becoming a cornerstone of the nation’s economic and innovative growth. In this context, the Startup India Innovation Week 2025, organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, from 10-18 January, stands as a testament to the vibrancy and resilience of this ecosystem.
“Startups have the potential to transform traditional industries, create employment opportunities, and foster innovation,” said Abhishek Gupta, Chairman of CII Punjab State and Chief of Strategic Marketing, Trident Ltd. “Punjab, with its entrepreneurial spirit, robust agricultural base, strong industrial infrastructure, and dynamic youth population, is uniquely positioned to harness the benefits of the startup wave.”
The Northern Region has witnessed exponential growth in its startup landscape, a result of collaborative efforts by governments, industries, and academic institutions. This progress underscores the importance of initiatives like Startup India, which have created a supportive environment by offering financial incentives, easing regulatory compliances, and fostering a culture of innovation. On 16th January 2025, India marks nine remarkable years since the launch of Startup India.
From just 400 startups in 2016 to over 1,70,000 recognized startups today, this growth highlights the nation’s potential as a global innovation hub. The Startup India initiative aligns seamlessly with the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, the Honourable Prime Minister’s call to transform India into a developed nation by 2047.
Startups have been pivotal in addressing societal and economic challenges, from technological advancements to social enterprises. Their contributions to enhancing regional competitiveness and creating sustainable economic opportunities are undeniable.
CII Punjab has been at the forefront of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the state through initiatives like: startup mentorship programs, startup conclaves, collaborations with academic institutions, working closely with the state government to advocate for policies that ease regulatory burdens on startups and create a more supportive ecosystem.
Despite these efforts, significant potential remains untapped in Punjab’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Mr. Gupta emphasized the need for a collective approach involving government, industry, and academia to create a more enabling environment for startups.
Key areas of focus include mentorship programs, easier access to funding, and enhanced skill development. “By driving innovation and fostering collaboration, Punjab can become a leader in the startup revolution. This will not only accelerate state-level growth but also contribute to India’s emergence as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship,” added Mr. Gupta. As India celebrates its thriving startup ecosystem during Startup India Innovation Week, stakeholders in Punjab and across the nation are called upon to collaborate and support startups. “Let us work together to build a resilient and inclusive ecosystem that addresses today’s needs and prepares us for tomorrow’s opportunities,” concluded Mr. Gupta. Together, we can make the Northern Region a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship, driving significant contributions to India’s growth and development.