Record 55,200 startups recognised in FY 2025-26; total crosses 2.23 lakh
The Commerce Ministry said on 17 April 2026 that more than 55,200 startups were recognised in FY 2025-26, the highest in any single year since Startup India began, taking the total past 2.23 lakh as on 31 March 2026.
Summary
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry said on 17 April 2026 that more than 55,200 startups were recognised in FY 2025-26, the highest in a single year since the Startup India initiative was launched on 16 January 2016, and up 51.6% from about 36,400 in FY 2024-25. Total recognised startups crossed 2.23 lakh as on 31 March 2026, with more than 23.36 lakh direct jobs. More than 1.07 lakh recognised startups, about 48%, have at least one woman director or partner. Maharashtra (38,660+), Karnataka (22,600+), Uttar Pradesh (21,960+), Delhi and Gujarat lead in recognised startups.
Key facts
- FY 2025-26
- 55,200+ recognised (highest ever); +51.6% y-o-y
- FY 2024-25
- 36,400+
- Total (31 Mar 2026)
- 2.23 lakh+; 23.36 lakh+ direct jobs
- Women-led
- 1.07 lakh+ with a woman director/partner (~48%)
- Top states
- Maharashtra, Karnataka, UP, Delhi, Gujarat
- Startup India launched
- 16 January 2016
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Which state had the highest number of DPIIT-recognised startups as on 31 March 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Maharashtra
Maharashtra led with 38,660+ recognised startups, followed by Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh.
Consider the following statements about Startup India data released in April 2026: 1. More than 55,200 startups were recognised in FY 2025-26, the highest in a single year. 2. About 48% of recognised startups have at least one woman director or partner. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Both are correct: 55,200+ were recognised in FY 2025-26, and 1.07 lakh+ (about 48%) have a woman director or partner.