More than half of India’s startups now originate from tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh shared this update. He made the remarks during Saturday’s address on 14 June at Bengaluru.
The statement highlights a clear shift away from metropolitan entrepreneurship hubs.
Startup Ecosystem Expands at Rapid Scale
India’s startup ecosystem has grown significantly over the past decade. It expanded from nearly 350 to 400 ventures earlier to about 2.3 lakh today.
This growth positions India as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. Additionally, the sector has generated nearly 24 to 25 lakh jobs in ten years.
Singh emphasized that entrepreneurship now depends on passion and skill. He added that location and formal education no longer limit opportunities. The remarks came during the RISE Conclave 2026 in Bengaluru.
The event followed the theme of innovation-led growth for Viksit Bharat 2047.
Aerospace Innovation and Startup Collaboration Grow
The minister highlighted progress in India’s aerospace innovation ecosystem. He noted mach33.aero as the country’s first public-private aerospace incubation centre.
This facility was established under CSIR-NAL of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. It has completed five years of operations in Bengaluru.
Since its launch, the centre has incubated 34 startups. More than 125 startups participated in the RISE Conclave 2026. Many of these startups operate in the aerospace sector.
Singh stated that collaboration with scientific institutions can create future unicorns.
These unicorns refer to startups valued above one billion dollars.
Private Sector Expands Into Strategic Industries
India has opened multiple strategic sectors to private participation in recent years. The space sector now allows private firms in launches and satellite manufacturing. It also includes space data analytics following major policy reforms.
Similarly, biotechnology, deep ocean exploration, and nuclear energy are expanding. These sectors now involve stronger collaboration with private stakeholders.
The National Quantum Mission follows an eight-year roadmap. It has already achieved milestones ahead of schedule.
The IndiaAI Mission is building computing infrastructure and digital skills ecosystems.
Innovation Index, Patents, and Research Growth Strengthen Ecosystem
India’s position in the Global Innovation Index has improved over the decade.
However, the minister did not specify the exact ranking. Patent filings by Indian residents have shown steady growth.
Indian research papers are also increasingly cited globally.
RISE Conclave Highlights Industry and Startup Integration
The RISE Conclave stands for Research, Industry, Start-ups, and Entrepreneurship. It brought together scientists, industries, investors, academia, and policymakers.
Discussions focused on aerospace, artificial intelligence, and agri-food innovation. The event also included exhibitions and technology transfer agreements.
Singh said success should be measured through tangible outcomes. These include licensed technologies, incubated startups, and secured investments.
Additionally, industry collaborations, commercialized products, and job creation matter.
