Question : Start up India Programme

(a) whether the Government proposes to change definition of a start up under the Start up India Programme following criticism that the current definition/rules are too restrictive;

(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether the Government proposes to specifically support start ups in specific sectors particularly agro-based and social entrepreneurship start ups; and
(d) if so, the details thereof including the agro-based start ups approved and funds released by the Government so far in the country, sector-wise, State/UT-wise?

???????? ??? ?????? ???????????? (????????? ??????)(??????? ??????? ???????)
THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
OF THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
(SHRIMATI NIRMALA SITHARAMAN)

(a) & (b): A Startup is defined under the Startup India program as per Gazette notification G.S.R. 180 (E) dated 17th February 2016, which can be reviewed as per need of Startup ecosystem.

(c) & (d): The Startup programme is equally applicable to all sectors. Accordingly, startups across all sectors are supported under Startup India programme. There are no funds specifically earmarked for agro-based startups. While the Government of India does not make any direct investment in Startups, Rs. 500 crores has been released in 2015-16 and Rs. 100 crores released in 2016-17 under the Fund of Funds for Startups to SIDBI.

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