NEW DELHI: India’s startup ecosystem continues to expand at a steady pace, with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recognising 1, 97, 692 startups as on October 31, 2025, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday.
Nearly two lakh startups have been formally recognised under the Startup India initiative, which was launched in 2016 to promote entrepreneurship and ease doing business, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha.
Along with rising numbers, startups have also emerged as a major source of job creation.
Till October 31, recognised startups have reported creating more than 21.11 lakh direct jobs.
Maharashtra remains a leading hub, with 34, 444 recognised startups that have generated over 3.76 lakh jobs -- one of the highest in the country.
The government has also shared key achievements of the Startup India initiative, which include efforts to improve access to funding, simplify regulations and strengthen support systems.