India’s startup ecosystem has seen significant expansion, growing from around 350-400 startups in 2014 to over two lakh startups presently. This development has positioned India as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, largely attributed to key policy reforms, as mentioned by Union MoS for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh. Notably, India’s Global Innovation Index ranking has surged from 80 to 38, with the country now ranking sixth globally in patents, boasting over one lakh patents filed, more than half by Indian residents, the minister revealed.
The Ministry of Science & Technology highlighted that India has emerged as a prominent player in scientific publications and innovation-driven research on the global stage. The technological transformation in India over the past decade is primarily credited to decisive policy reforms, strong governmental backing for science and technology, enhanced research autonomy, and increased private sector involvement, Dr. Singh emphasized. The inaugural session of “Vigyan TECH 2026” held on National Technology Day at BRIC-NII witnessed discussions on the rapid technological advancements spurred by the heightened national focus on science and innovation since 2014.
Dr. Singh underscored the launch of significant initiatives in the past decade that have propelled India to the forefront of scientific nations. Notable programs such as the National Quantum Mission, India AI Mission, Anusandhan National Research Foundation, Research Development and Innovation initiative, WISE-KIRAN scheme for women scientists, and NIDHI program for startups have been instrumental in expanding avenues for innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive scientific progress. Administrative reforms aimed at granting more autonomy and flexibility to scientific institutions, including relaxed procurement norms and delegation of Global Tender Inquiry exemption powers to institute directors, have been highlighted to accelerate research and innovation endeavors.
