Prarambh
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, is set to host the ‘Prarambh’ – Startup India International Summit. This significant event will take place on December 11 and 20, 2024, and will be conducted in a virtual setting.
The term ‘Prarambh’ holds profound significance, symbolizing ‘an auspicious beginning’ as a noun and representing the action ‘to start’ as a verb.
The summit aims to unite prominent policymakers, industry leaders, academics, investors, startups, and all relevant stakeholders from around the world. The event is structured to facilitate discussions on successful global practices and will exhibit the breadth and scope of innovation-driven entrepreneurship in India. The agenda is strategically crafted to draw the attention of international investors to Indian startups, enhance domestic investment, and provide Indian startups with opportunities to penetrate global markets. Additionally, the summit seeks to further refine policies to support the startup ecosystem. Through this initiative, DPIIT aims to foster a robust environment for business innovation and entrepreneurship in India, aligned with the Government’s vision to bolster economic growth through internal trade and industry development.
Speakers
Professor K. VijayRaghavan
Professor K. VijayRaghavan has been serving as the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India since April 3, 2018, following the tenure of Dr. R. Chidambaram. He is also the chairperson of the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC). Before his current role, he was the Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) from January 28, 2013, to February 2, 2018. In his role as the Principal Scientific Adviser, he collaborates extensively across various levels of government, with state agencies, citizens, and both national and international organizations. His primary objective is to ensure that science, technology, and innovation drive sustainable development in India and contribute to global well-being.
VijayRaghavan also holds the title of Distinguished Professor at the National Centre of Biological Sciences (NCBS) at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Bangalore, where he served as director until 2013. His academic background includes a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, and a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. He furthered his research as a Senior Research Fellow at the California Institute of Technology, focusing on the development of animal behavior through the study of nerves and muscles. A recognized leader in his field, VijayRaghavan is a member of several prestigious academies, including the Indian Science Academies, the Royal Society, the Academy of Medical Sciences in the UK, and as a Foreign Associate of the US National Academy of Sciences. For his contributions to science, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Shri in 2013.
Shri. Piyush Goyal
Mr. Goyal has held several significant positions in Indian governance and politics. His political journey includes being the Minister of Railways and Coal from 2017 to 2019, and he briefly took additional responsibilities as the Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs during 2018 and 2019. Earlier, he managed a consolidated portfolio as the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy from 2014 to 2017, and Mines in 2016-17.
During his tenure, Indian Railways achieved an unprecedented safety record in 2018-19, primarily through comprehensive strategies such as the removal of Unmanned Level Crossings (UMLCs) on the broad-gauge network and the introduction of safer rail coaches. Mr. Goyal also spearheaded the introduction of the Vande Bharat Express, India’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train, running between Delhi and Varanasi. Under his leadership, the ministries of Power, Coal, and New & Renewable Energy initiated transformative changes in India’s energy landscape. These changes included accelerating the electrification of nearly 18,000 previously unelectrified villages, implementing the comprehensive power sector reform UDAY, launching the world’s largest LED bulb distribution program (UJALA), and driving a significant expansion in renewable energy.
Additional accomplishments include alleviating coal shortages to enhance India’s energy security and overseeing transparent e-auctions of coal blocks. His contributions to the energy sector were recognized with the 4th Annual Carnot Prize in 2018.
In a political career spanning over 35 years, Mr. Goyal has been an influential figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), serving on its National Executive and as the National Treasurer. His roles in the 2019 Indian General Elections included membership in the Manifesto and Publicity Committees and leading the BJP’s Information Communication Campaign Committee in the 2014 elections. Academically, Mr. Goyal excelled as an all-India second rank holder Chartered Accountant and a law graduate holding the second rank from Mumbai University. He also made his mark as an investment banker, offering strategic and growth advice to top corporations. His leadership extended to the financial sector, where he served on the boards of the State Bank of India and Bank of Baroda. In 2002, he was appointed by the Government of India to the Task Force for Interlinking of Rivers.
Amitabh Kant
Mr. Amitabh Kant currently serves as the CEO of the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog). He is an esteemed member of the Indian Administrative Service, having joined the Kerala cadre in the 1980 batch. Kant is well-known as the author of “Branding India – An Incredible Story” and has been a pivotal figure behind several transformative campaigns such as “Make in India”, “Startup India”, “Incredible India”, and “God’s Own Country”. These initiatives have significantly enhanced India and Kerala’s reputation as top destinations for manufacturing and tourism, garnering multiple international accolades. The campaigns incorporated comprehensive strategies including infrastructure enhancement, product improvement, public-private partnerships, and effective positioning and branding derived from thorough market research.
Additionally, Mr. Kant spearheaded the “Atithi Devo Bhavah” (Guest is God) campaign, which aimed at training taxi drivers, guides, and immigration officials, thus involving them directly in the tourism promotion efforts. He also played a crucial role as the National Project Director for the UNDP’s Rural Tourism Project, which innovatively expanded tourism into Indian villages renowned for their handicrafts, handloom, and cultural richness. As the Secretary (Industries) for the Government of India, he led significant reforms in the Ease of Doing Business initiative and the ranking of states based on their outcomes. Currently, he chairs the committee tasked with implementing Digital Payment systems in India.
Mr. Kant has received numerous awards for his contributions to policy and governance, including the Economic Time Policy Change Agent of the Year, Bloomberg TV Personality of the Year, and NDTV Administrator of the Year awards. He has also been honored with the One Globe Award for his leadership in transforming governance for the 21st century, the Sir Edmund Hillary Fellowship by the Prime Minister of New Zealand, and the Golden Peacock Award for his leadership in economic transformation in 2017. He is a Member of the Steering Board of the World Economic Forum’s “Shaping the Future of Production Systems”.
Dr. Guruprasad Mohapatra
Dr. Guruprasad Mohapatra, an officer of the Indian Administrative Service from the 1986 batch, began his tenure as the Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) on August 1, 2019. His career features significant contributions to urban development and the power sector in Gujarat. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the Managing Director of several prominent Public Sector Units in India, driving them towards notable advancements and quality enhancements. Notably, as the Municipal Commissioner of Surat, Dr. Mohapatra was pivotal in transforming the city into a benchmark of urban governance, focusing on solid waste management, robust infrastructure, and efficient financial management—key components that are also vital to the aviation industry. In Ahmedabad, his initiatives such as the Sabarmati Riverfront, BRTS, Kankaria Lakefront, and Heritage Promotion projects significantly propelled the local aviation and tourism sectors.
Before his role at DPIIT, Dr. Mohapatra served as the Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), where his leadership catalyzed significant improvements in airport infrastructure across both metropolitan and regional airports. His tenure in the Department of Commerce as a Joint Secretary saw pioneering work in promoting Special Economic Zones (SEZs), enhancing public procurement processes, and advancing project exports through innovative financing and insurance solutions. Under his guidance, AAI also intensified its efforts to upgrade facilities, ensuring better transportation links especially in less accessible tier II and III cities.
Ajay Prakash Sawhney
Ajay Sawhney, a member of the Indian Administrative Service, has a rich background in handling diverse administrative roles within the state of Andhra Pradesh. His portfolio has included critical areas such as land administration, law enforcement, rural development, health and family welfare, and notably, communication and information technology. Sawhney has been a pivotal figure in e-governance and played a key role in the technology sector, particularly in his efforts leading to the founding of the International Institute of Information Technology in Hyderabad. Under his guidance, this institution has risen to prominence as a leading center for computer science education and research in India.
With over a decade of experience in information technology, Sawhney has directed several significant e-governance and broadband initiatives. Notably, as the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, he spearheaded the AP Fibernet Project, which aimed to provide widespread Fiber to the Home (FTTH) connectivity across the state. His career in the Government of India is equally distinguished; he served as the President and CEO of the National e-Governance Division, aiding the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in rolling out the National e-Governance Plan. Prior to his current assignment as the Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, he was the Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Agenda
Day 1
Inaugural Session
To be inaugurated by Commerce & Industry Minister, with participation from all BIMSTEC countries. The inaugural session will also include launch of the “Virtual Startup Showcase” which will be hosted for the whole duration of the event.
Event Introduction: On January 16, 2016, the Honorable Prime Minister of India launched the Startup India Action Plan, marking a pivotal moment in fostering a burgeoning startup culture within the nation. Notably, the Action Plan includes a directive—Action Point 12—that emphasizes organizing international events to foster collaboration and showcase innovations. Building on this initiative, during the 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu, Nepal, from August 30-31, 2018, the Prime Minister announced plans to host the BIMSTEC Startup Conclave. This summit, scheduled for January 11-20, 2024, aims to enhance connectivity among entrepreneurs across the BIMSTEC countries.
Session Highlights: The two-day summit will be officially inaugurated by the Honorable Commerce and Industry Minister. The event will commence with a comprehensive address to a diverse assembly of innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders from both academia and industry. These participants will hail from India and across the globe, including BIMSTEC countries. The session will also introduce a Virtual Startup Showcase and include statements from distinguished BIMSTEC representatives, focusing on bolstering international cooperation.
Key Discussion Points:
- The significant growth and achievements of the Indian startup ecosystem.
- The instrumental role of the Startup India Initiative in positioning India as the third-largest global startup ecosystem.
- The critical role of a vibrant startup ecosystem in achieving India’s ambitious goal of becoming a USD $5 trillion economy, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- The crucial need for convergence and collaboration among BIMSTEC countries to enhance their respective startup ecosystems.
- The importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, including entrepreneurs, industry leaders, academia, government, and investors, to optimize the startup ecosystem’s effectiveness in supporting new entrepreneurs and innovators in India.
Session Panel Members:
Moderator:
- Ms. Aastha Grover, AVP & Head, Startup India Hub, Invest India
Dignitaries:
- Honorable Minister Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Railways and Commerce & Industry
- Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Housing and Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation, and Minister of State for Commerce and Industry
- Shri Som Prakash, Minister of State for Commerce & Industry
- H.E. Mr. Tenzin Lekphell, Secretary General, BIMSTEC
- H.E. Mr. Zunaid Ahmed Palak, State Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh
- H.E. Mr. Lyonpo Loknath Sharma, Minister of Economic Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan
- H.E. Mr. U Thaung Tun, Minister of Investment & Foreign Economic Relations, Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar
- H.E. Mr. Lekhraj Bhatta, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal
- H.E Mr. Namal Rajapaksa, Minister of Youth and Sports, Republic of Sri Lanka
- H.E. Dr. Pun-Arj Chairatana, Executive Director, National Innovation Agency, Government of the Kingdom of Thailand
- Dr. Guruprasad Mohapatra, Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Government of India
(HALL 1)
Foundations of a
Robust Startup Ecosystem
Session 3: Crafting a Robust Startup Ecosystem
Overview: This session is dedicated to exploring and sharing global best practices for fostering robust startup ecosystems. It will specifically focus on the effective policy interventions that governments have implemented and the valuable insights gained from different countries, including those within the BIMSTEC region. The discussion will provide a platform for exchanging information on various initiatives that are shaping startup landscapes in their respective countries.
Key Themes: Participants will delve into the significance of having a dedicated startup policy that supports local innovation and the overall growth of the startup environment. The conversation will also cover the impact of various policy and regulatory measures that are essential for establishing a supportive ecosystem for startups.
Session Panel Members:
Moderator:
- Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman and Founder, Axilor Ventures
Panelists:
- Shri K. Vijay Raghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India
- Mr. Arif Khan, IDLC (Nomination from Bangladesh)
- Mr. Tandin Tshering, Director General, Department of Cottage and Small Industry, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan
- Deputy Director General, DICA, Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations, Myanmar
- Mr. Dipta Shah, Founder, 54i Ventures, Nepal
- Mr. Pariwat Wongsamran, Director, Startup Thailand
- Mr. Sachindra Samararatne, Programme Head, Industry Development Programme, ICTA, Sri Lanka
This session promises to be an insightful gathering, highlighting the diverse strategies employed by different nations to nurture and sustain their startup ecosystems. It will offer a unique opportunity to learn from the collective experiences and policies that have successfully propelled the startup culture forward in the global arena.
(HALL 2)
From Idea to Proof of Concept
Session 5: Navigating the Journey from Idea to Proof of Concept
Overview: In the competitive world of startups, the journey from a mere idea to a tangible proof of concept is pivotal. This stage demands a blend of clear vision, strategic planning, and resource allocation. Startups begin with an innovative idea, which needs to be backed by a dedicated team and a solid execution plan to introduce new products or services. It is crucial to ideate and conceptualize these offerings effectively, requiring the right mix of talent and teamwork. The development phase not only needs creative ideation but also access to seed funding and potential customers for validation.
Focus of the Session: This session is designed to assist budding entrepreneurs in understanding the critical steps of turning innovative ideas into viable business models. Experts and startup founders from BIMSTEC Member countries will come together to share insights and provide guidance to young entrepreneurs on the essential processes and strategies for achieving proof of concept in their ventures.
Session Panel Members:
Panelists:
- Mr. Deep Kalra, Founder and Group CEO, MakeMyTrip
Dignitaries:
- Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India
- Mr. Fahim Ahmed, President and CFO, Pathao, Bangladesh
- Mr. Sonam Wangchuk, Founder, The Tiger’s Nest Camp, Bhutan
- Mr. Sixit Bhatta, Co-Founder, Tootle, Nepal
- Mr. Ukrit Visitkitjakarn, CEO, Earthcare Innosys, Thailand
- Lahiru Padmala, Founder, Takas.lk, Sri Lanka
This dynamic session aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the early and often challenging stages of startup development. By focusing on collaboration, funding access, and market validation, the panel seeks to inspire and guide the next generation of entrepreneurs in turning their innovative ideas into successful proofs of concept.
(HALL 1)
Promoting Women Entrepreneurship
Session 4: Advancing Women Entrepreneurship
Overview: Women entrepreneurs are emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments in the global economy, significantly enhancing entrepreneurial activity and economic development. Their ventures not only increase the number of startups but also contribute to the creation of successful unicorns, with 2019 witnessing a record number of female-led startups reaching unicorn status.
Session Objective: This session aims to address the crucial role of women entrepreneurs who are pioneering change and setting benchmarks in their fields. Discussions will focus on the formulation and implementation of supportive policies that are essential for unlocking the vast potential and skill set of women entrepreneurs, thereby fostering a more inclusive economic landscape.
Session Panel Members:
Moderator:
- Ms. Shobana Kamineni, Executive Vice-Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited
Panelists:
- Dr. Renu Swarup, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India
- Ms. Tina Jabeen, Managing Director & CEO, Startup Limited, Bangladesh
- Ms. Choitsho Eudel Dorji, Founder, Tse Organics, Bhutan
- Ms. Mu Mu Aye, Deputy Director, Head of SMEs Department, Yangon Region SMEs Department, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Industry, Myanmar
- Ms. Santoshi Rana, Founder, Bihani Social Venture, Nepal
- Ms. Warangkhana Phanwanich, CEO, Petaneer Co., Thailand
- Ms. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson, Group CEO, HEMAS Holdings PLC, Sri Lanka
The session will delve into the strategies that can enhance the ecosystem for women entrepreneurs, exploring effective policies that can mobilize their untapped aptitude and immense potential. By sharing experiences and insights, this panel seeks to inspire and empower more women to venture into entrepreneurship and play a pivotal role in their economies.
(HALL 2)
Go to Market Strategy
Session 6: Crafting a Go-to-Market Strategy for Startups
Overview: Innovation is the seed from which startups grow, introducing novel methods and products to the market. However, as these markets evolve and become more competitive, sustaining innovation can be challenging. A well-structured Go-to-Market (GTM) strategy becomes essential to maintain the viability and growth of these innovations. This session will explore the critical elements of an effective GTM strategy, with a special focus on how startups can expand internationally.
Key Themes: The discussion will center on identifying the right market segments and strategies to expand customer bases, both of which are crucial for continuous growth. The panel will also delve into the specific tactics that enable startups to navigate international markets successfully.
Session Panel Members:
Moderator:
- Country Head – Softbank India, Softbank Group International
Panelists:
- Mr. Kunal Bahl, CEO & Co-Founder, Snapdeal
- Mr. Rahat Ahmed, Founding Partner and CEO, Anchorless Bangladesh
- Mr. Sonam Chophel, Founder, Druksell, Bhutan
- Dr. Wunna Aung, Director, DICA, Myanmar
- Mr. Amun Thapa, Founder & CEO, Sasto Deal, Nepal
- Mr. Jay Parote Denskoon, CEO & Co-founder, Zipevent, Thailand
- Mr. Prajeeth Balasubramanian, General Partner/Co-Founder, BOV Capital, Sri Lanka
Through interactive discussions, this session will provide actionable insights into developing and executing a Go-to-Market strategy that not only captures but sustains customer interest and facilitates expansion beyond domestic borders. Panelists from a diverse array of backgrounds will share their experiences and strategies, offering a comprehensive look at the dynamics of scaling startups internationally.
(HALL 1)
Building Successful incubators
Session 8: Foundations of Effective Startup Incubators
Overview: This session delves into the essential aspects of creating and operating successful startup incubators. It will outline the foundational elements necessary for setting up an incubation center and discuss the various roles that stakeholders play within this ecosystem. Additionally, the discussion will explore the strategies and support mechanisms that governments implement to foster successful incubation programs.
Key Focus: The panel will shed light on the initiatives that have proven effective in supporting incubators and will examine the critical components involved in managing these programs efficiently. The goal is to provide insights into how incubators can serve as catalysts for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Session Panel Members:
Moderator:
- Dr. K Suresh Kumar, President, Indian STEPs and Business Incubators Association (ISBA)
Panelists:
- Shri R. Ramanan, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission and Additional Secretary, NITI AAYOG, Government of India; Senior Vice President, Tata Consultancy Services
- Mr. Samad Miraly, Partner, IDLC Venture Fund 1, Bangladesh
- Mr. Tashi Wangdi, Founder, iHub and iTravel
- Dr. Tshering Cigay Dorji, CEO, Thimphu Tech Park Ltd., Bhutan
- Mr. Narottam Aryal, President, King’s College, Kathmandu
- Mrs. Sansanee Huabsomboon, Director, Business Innovation Centre (BIC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Thailand
- Mr. Mano Sekaram, Founder and CEO, 99x Technology Ltd.; Founder, StartupXFoundry
Throughout this session, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics involved in incubator management, from government support to day-to-day operations, providing them with the tools to nurture and accelerate startup growth effectively.
(HALL 2)
Leveraging Power of Social Innovation
Session 9: Harnessing the Power of Social Innovation
Overview: This session will delve into the transformative potential of social innovation and social entrepreneurship, which are defined as solutions that effectively address social or environmental issues while fostering new social relationships and collaborations. Simplified, it’s about making a positive impact in intelligent and sustainable ways. Given the growing desire among the youth to tackle social challenges innovatively, this discussion will explore how startups can play a pivotal role in addressing the societal issues faced by participating countries.
Discussion Points: The panelists will discuss the significant role that social innovation plays in solving real-life problems and will share success stories of startups that have collaborated with governments to tackle urgent societal issues. This session aims to provide insights into how social entrepreneurship is not only a force for economic development but also a catalyst for social change.
Session Panel Members:
Moderator:
- Mr. Venkatesh Shukla, General Partner, Monta Vista Capital, Past President, TiE Silicon Valley, and Former Chair, TiE Global
Panelists:
- Ms. Neera Nundy, Co-Founder and Partner, Dasra
- Ms. Siffat Sarwar, Co-Founder, ShopUp, Bangladesh
- Mr. Sangay Dorji, Secretary General, Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Dr. Nge Lay Khin, Deputy General Manager, The Office of the Central Transformation Unit, Ministry of Planning, Finance & Industry, Myanmar
- Bibhusan Bista, Co-Founder and CEO, YoungInnovations, Nepal
- Mr. Chandula Abeywickrema, Founder & Chairman, Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN)
- Mr. Teera Kanokkanjanarat, Founder, Arincare Co., Ltd., Thailand
This session is set to highlight how social innovation can bridge the gap between entrepreneurial ventures and societal needs, providing a platform for leaders in the field to discuss their approaches and the impactful outcomes of their initiatives.
Enabling Market Access for Startups
Session 10: Facilitating Market Access for Startups
Overview: Introducing new products and innovations into the market poses significant challenges for startups, particularly when the market is hesitant to embrace new concepts. Additionally, startups often lack the necessary capacity or network to effectively penetrate new markets. To address these challenges, the support of investors, corporate partners, and government stakeholders is crucial. These enablers play a vital role in providing startups with the market access they need to reach potential customers.
Focus of the Discussion: This session will explore various platforms and opportunities available to startups for market entry and procurement. It will also delve into governmental initiatives and reforms aimed at simplifying public procurement from startups, thereby enhancing their market access. Each BIMSTEC country has been invited to contribute a speaker to share insights from their respective regions.
Session Panel Members:
Moderator:
- Ms. Sruthi Kannan, Head, CISCO Launch Pad
Panelists:
- Shri Rajeev Kandpal, Joint Secretary & CFO, GeM, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India
- Mr. Bijon Islam, CEO and Founder, LightCastle Partners, Bangladesh
- Mr. Ugyen C. Jamtsho, Founder, I Am An Entrepreneur, Bhutan
- Mr. Rungsun Promprasith, CEO, QueQ (Thailand) Co Ltd
- Mr. Sanath Panawennage, CEO, Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies, Sri Lanka
The session aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how startups can overcome market entry barriers and the role that ecosystem enablers can play in facilitating this process. Attendees will gain valuable insights into leveraging governmental and corporate support to expand their market presence, particularly through public procurement opportunities.
(‘Star Talks’ Session by marquee global personalities)
Session 11: Star Talks
In this session, marquee global speakers will speak about their journey as an entrepreneur.They would talk about their own challenges, and how they overcame failures to succeed in a fiercely competitive world.
The session shall celebrate the triumph of grit and determination in the face of numerous trials and tribulations, with the star speakers narrating from their real-life experiences. The session shall also highlight the importance of having a vision of scale and taking calculated risks to achieve these. With the star speakers coming from diverse backgrounds, a key-takeaway of the session shall be an understanding of varied approach towards problem-solving, personal growth, and teamwork.
Moderator
Ms. Shereen Bhan, CNBC-TV18
Proposed Star Talk Speakers
- Mr. John Chambers, Founder & CEO, JC2 Ventures and Former Chairman & CEO, Cisco
- Mr. Sunil Kant Munjal, Chairman, Hero Enterprise
- Ms. Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Bollywood Actress
Day 2
Session 13: Startup India’s Evolution
Startup India, initiated in January 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to foster innovation and startups, driving economic growth and employment. With a 19-point action plan, it envisions at least one startup in every district. Over 40,000 startups have been recognized, spanning various sectors and regions, contributing significantly to job creation.
Session 14: State Innovations in Startup Ecosystems
This discussion spotlights states’ pivotal role in supporting startups through policy interventions. The States’ Startup Ranking Framework incentivizes good practices, with 30 states having dedicated startup policies. The panel will highlight exemplary state efforts and discuss effective strategies for nurturing local entrepreneurship.
Session 15: Mapping the Future of Startup India
Startups are crucial for India’s self-reliance, addressing key challenges and driving economic growth. This panel explores reforms and interventions to propel the startup ecosystem further, aiming for global recognition and sustainable development.
Session 16: Unicorn Insights: Scaling Indian Startups
India’s startup landscape boasts 36 Unicorns, poised to exceed 100 by 2025. This panel delves into the journeys of Unicorn leaders, offering sector insights and visions for future growth, shaping India’s entrepreneurial landscape.
| Session | Moderator | Panelists |
|---|---|---|
| Startup India | Mr. Salil Seth (Invest India) | Mr. Ritesh Agarwal (Oyo), Mr. Hari Menon (BigBasket), Mr. Nithin Kamath (ZERODHA), Mr. Sridhar Vembu (Zoho) |
| State Innovations | Smt. Shruti Singh (DPIIT) | Dr. E.V. Ramana Reddy (Karnataka), Shri. Jayesh Ranjan (Telangana), Shri. Manoj Kumar Das (Gujarat), Shri. Abhishek Dev (Andaman & Nicobar), Shri. Sibin C (Punjab) |
| Future of Startup | Dr. Saurabh Srivastava (NASSCOM) | Shri Amitabh Kant (NITI Aayog), Shri Ajay Prakash Sawhney (MeitY), Shri R. Umamaheswaran (ISRO), Mr. Mohandas Pai (3one4 Capital), Ms. Nupur Garg (WinPE Forum) |
| Unicorn Insights | Mr. Sanjeev Bhikchandani (Info Edge) |
Session 17: Impactful Entrepreneurship
Champions of Change, recognized for societal impact, share their journeys and best practices, inspiring social sector entrepreneurship, aligned with Gandhian values.
Session 19: Nurturing Student Entrepreneurs
This session highlights initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission and incubation centers fostering student entrepreneurship. Stakeholders discuss how educational and government institutions can support budding entrepreneurs.
Session 21: Global Startup Strategies
Examining global best practices, this workshop aims to enrich India’s startup ecosystem. Insights from international experts will inform strategies for nurturing innovation.
Session 20: Academia-Industry Synergy
Industry-academia collaboration is vital for innovation. Experts discuss models enhancing this partnership, fostering entrepreneurial solutions to real-world challenges.
Session 22: International Market Access
Exploring government efforts to facilitate international market access for Indian startups, this session seeks to attract global capital and enhance global competitiveness.
Session 23: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Highlighting the potential economic impact of women entrepreneurship, this session features influential women sharing their journeys and insights to inspire and support female entrepreneurs.
Session 24: Summit Conclusion
Prime Minister Narendra Modi concludes the summit, emphasizing international collaboration, capital mobilization, and future directions for Startup India, encouraging diverse stakeholders to foster entrepreneurial endeavors.