India's Start-up Ecosystem Generates Nearly 25 Lakh Jobs; Number of Start-ups Surges from Around 350 to 2.3 Lakh: Dr. Jitendra Singh

• Startup India is the flagship national programme (launched 16 January 2016) implemented by DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, to nurture innovation-driven enterprises.
• As of mid-2026, India is the world's third-largest start-up ecosystem, with ~2.3 lakh DPIIT-recognised start-ups generating ~25 lakh direct jobs — up from ~350 start-ups in 2016.
• Examinable for GS-III (Economy, Science & Tech) and Essay (Viksit Bharat 2047, innovation, employment).