India Continues to Support Startups and Deep-Tech Innovation

The Indian government is maintaining its focus on supporting startups and advancing deep technology sectors. Over recent years, several funding programs and initiatives have been announced to build a robust ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship across India. In April 2025, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the government would prioritize funding startups in cutting-edge domains. These domains include artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, precision manufacturing, biotechnology, and semiconductor design. The goal is to promote the development of new technologies and create opportunities for young entrepreneurs to grow and succeed. By August 2025, Goyal revealed that the government had invested a total of 211 crore rupees under the Fund of Funds for Startups scheme. This investment specifically aimed to boost the Indian space sector, encouraging innovation in space technology and related fields. In October 2025, Goyal shared plans for the second edition of the Startup Fund of Funds. This new phase will focus on early-stage ventures in deep technology. The government intends to provide risk capital to startups in this sector, helping them stay independent and develop solutions that are made in India. These efforts are part of a broader push to enhance India’s homegrown technological capabilities. Goyal also emphasized the importance of strengthening India’s deep-tech environment. In November 2025, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to making India a thriving hub for deep technology. This includes improving the ease of doing business, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. Startups are seen as crucial for India’s future. In December 2020, Goyal stated that startups are becoming the backbone of India, playing a vital role in encouraging innovation and supporting young entrepreneurs with fresh ideas. This reflects the government’s long-term vision of nurturing a vibrant startup culture. Earlier, in September 2020, Goyal suggested that the industry should create a pool of capital to support new-age ideas and startups. Such a fund would help nurture innovations and support the growth of new businesses in India, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. To boost innovation further, Goyal launched the 'Startup Search Initiative' in November 2025. This program, run by IIM Calcutta Innovation Park and PlastIndia Foundation, aims to promote sustainable development and innovation in the plastics sector. It is part of the government's broader effort to encourage industry-specific growth and entrepreneurship. While these initiatives demonstrate strong government support for innovation, as of 2024, there is no official confirmation that the government and private sector are encouraging young innovators beyond these stated programs. However, the ongoing investments and new programs indicate a clear focus on building an environment that nurtures technology-driven startups. In summary, India’s efforts to support startups and deep technology aim to foster innovation, create jobs, and strengthen the country’s position in global technology markets. These initiatives show the government's commitment to making India a leader in cutting-edge sectors and ensuring that young entrepreneurs have the resources and environment they need to succeed.