Startup India: 2.07 lakh recognised startups, 21.9 lakh jobs
Asked by UPSCMains 2026 (GS3)1 PYQ
UPSC has already asked about this. Read the story with these questions in mind.
What happened
- As of 31 December 2025, DPIIT had recognised 2,07,135 startups, which have created over 21.9 lakh direct jobs [PIB].
Background
- Recognition gives tax benefits under Section 80-IAC and access to the Fund of Funds.
Why it matters
- Jobs per startup are modest. Scale-ups, not just registrations, should be the metric.
How to use this in Mains
- As per PIB (2026-02-13): as of 31 December 2025, DPIIT had recognised 2,07,135 startups, which have created over 21.9 lakh direct jobs.
- Jobs per startup are modest. Scale-ups, not just registrations, should be the metric.
Quotable data pointAs of 31 December 2025, DPIIT had recognised 2,07,135 startups, which have created over 21.9 lakh direct jobs.
PIB: Commerce: Startup India status, 13 Feb 2026
Exam angle
UPSC
Prelims: Startup recognition.
Practice MCQs
Original practice questions (not PYQs).
Practice · UPSC
Recognised startups (Dec 2025)
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Direct jobs
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Recognising body
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
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Official source: PIB: Commerce: Startup India status, 13 Feb 2026
facts from cited sources only; faculty review pending