Government Expands Startup Definition, Introduces Separate Category for Deep Tech Firms

The Indian government has expanded the Startup India programme by doubling the turnover limit for startups to Rs 200 crore and formally recognising deep tech startups as a separate category. Deep tech startups, defined by significant R&D expenditure and novel intellectual property, can now receive benefits for up to 20 years with a turnover ceiling of Rs 300 crore. The changes also extend startup recognition to certain cooperative enterprises, reflecting evolving innovation cycles and capital needs in the ecosystem.