Government Revises Startup Recognition Framework to Strengthen Startup India Action Plan

• On 5 February 2026, the Government of India (DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry) revised the Startup Recognition Framework under the Startup India Action Plan to widen eligibility and deepen support for deep tech, innovation, and cooperative-led enterprises.
• The revision raises the turnover eligibility ceiling to ₹200 crore (general) and, for Deep Tech startups, raises age limit to 20 years and turnover ceiling to ₹300 crore.
• Marks the start of the second decade of Startup India (launched 16 January 2016); aligns recognition with patient-capital flows and tech-led manufacturing goals.
• UPSC relevance: GS-III (Indian economy, growth, innovation, R&D, MSMEs) and GS-II (government policies/interventions).