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On this National Startup Day, we celebrate the dreamers, doers, and disruptors shaping India’s future
National Startup Day is celebrated with the theme of ‘Let’s shape the future together — one innovative idea at a time’. (Image: Shutterstock)
National Startup Day serves as a tribute to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives India’s innovation and progress. With a thriving ecosystem of over 160,000 recognized startups and more than 110 unicorns, India has emerged as a global hub for creativity and disruptive thinking. From technology to commerce, the startup wave is transforming industries, fueled by bold visionaries and resilient leaders.
The Transformative Power of Startups
Mr. Rikant Pittie, CEO and Co-founder, EaseMyTrip, eloquently captures the essence of this dynamic ecosystem, “At EaseMyTrip, we believe that the spirit of entrepreneurship is the foundation of innovation and progress. National Startup Day is a tribute to the bold spirit that drives thousands of startups across India to challenge conventions, disrupt industries, and create meaningful change.”
The remarkable growth of India’s startup ecosystem reflects the success of initiatives like Startup India, launched in 2016. These efforts have not only fueled economic growth but have also created job opportunities across diverse sectors. Despite challenges like the pandemic, the resilience and creativity of startups have underscored India’s potential as a global innovation powerhouse.
EaseMyTrip’s recent partnership with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and the launch of their innovative product, ScanMyTrip, during the Startup Mahotsav, highlights their commitment to empowering startups. This initiative aims to bridge gaps between buyers and sellers, driving inclusive growth and strengthening the digital commerce landscape.
Shaping the Future of Work
Looking ahead to 2025, the startup landscape is set to undergo transformative changes, particularly in workforce management and talent acquisition. Kartik Narayan, CEO-Staffing, TeamLease, shares insights into this evolving trend:
“As we look ahead to 2025, startups will see a significant shift in how they approach talent acquisition and workforce management. The gig economy is set to expand dramatically, offering startups a flexible and cost-efficient way to scale operations without the commitment of long-term contracts. This growing trend of short-term, project-based work will be pivotal in industries that demand agility and adaptability.”
Narayan emphasizes the critical role of skilling and upskilling in the success of startup workforces. Startups are expected to prioritize training and retaining talent, ensuring long-term sustainability. With technology-driven sectors like AI, IoT, and cloud computing in high demand, the integration of gig workers and contract professionals will address skill gaps while maintaining flexibility. Policies to protect gig workers and ensure their social security, developed by central and state governments, will further support this evolving workforce model.
Innovation and Policy Support
Startups are not only reshaping industries but also benefiting from policy measures that encourage innovation and growth. Yuvraj Shidhaye, Founder and Director of TreadBinary, reflects on the supportive ecosystem, “Startups are the architects of change, thriving in an ecosystem shaped by challenges and opportunities. In the ever-expanding landscape, startups are not just reshaping the IT sector but are driving innovation across industries.”
He highlights key advantages under the Startup India initiative, such as tax exemptions under section 80 IAC of the Income Tax Act. Recognized startups can avail of a tax holiday for three consecutive financial years within their first ten years of incorporation. Rebates on patent filings also facilitate smoother operational processes, enabling startups to focus on their core mission.
“National Startup Day 2025 reminds us to celebrate the indomitable spirit of entrepreneurs and the ecosystem supporting them,” Shidhaye adds. Quoting Dhirubhai Ambani, he underscores the guiding mantra for entrepreneurs: “Ideas are no one’s monopoly. Think big, think fast, and think ahead.”
A Vision for the Future
As India continues its journey toward becoming a global innovation powerhouse, the focus on entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and ease of doing business is creating limitless opportunities. On this National Startup Day, we celebrate the dreamers, doers, and disruptors shaping India’s future. Their vision and determination are building a resilient, future-ready economy, ensuring that India remains a beacon of innovation and progress.
