How to Start a Startup in India in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

How to start a startup in India in 2026

Introduction:

India is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. And by the end of 2026, it may be higher thanks to startup-friendly government policies. It is now more exciting than complicated to start a startup in India. Powered by a surging economy and supportive programs, these startups are turning small ideas into big businesses. This article acts as a guide to help you understand how to launch a startup in India from an idea to a funding-ready company, without much hassle.

Step 1: Find and Validate Ideas

The very first step that every great startup begins with is finding a solid idea to solve problems around you. You must have a real problem that you are trying to solve with your idea. For instance, assisting small farmers in selling crops directly to buyers online. When you have an idea, validate it first rather than working on it right away. 

Most startups fail because they launch without validation. Try to understand your target audience through surveys or interviews. This will help you in the line of questioning, “Would they use this?” India is a varied market, so try to focus on ideas that can be used locally, like affordable tech solutions or eco-friendly products.

Step 2: Market Research

Understanding your target audience and competitors is the key. India’s digital economy is huge, with millions of online users for shopping, learning, and even for healthcare. Find out what’s been happening on the market lately and do some basic research. Estimate your market size and pin down your unique selling points, like lower prices or quicker service. These things would make your startup unique in a crowded space.

Step 3: Create a Basic Business Plan

A business plan is like a roadmap. It is a document outlining your goals and an overview of what your startup is about. The service or product you offer and similar things. This is an important document that helps you during funding rounds. Investors ask about business plans before funding. Include sections on:

  • Target audience: Who will buy from you?
  • Revenue model: How will you make money? 
  • Costs: Estimate expenses like rent, salaries, or marketing.
  • Timeline: When are you planning to launch?

Consider factors like rising digital adoption and possible economic changes in the market. Update your plan as you learn more. This business plan will be key to securing funds.

Step 4: Choosing the right business structure

Decide how to set up your startup legally. Options include Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership, and Private Limited Company. In India, you cannot get government benefits or raise venture capital funds if you are a Sole proprietorship, which means a company having a solo founder. However, you will be personally liable for debts. Partnerships are good for teams, as they allow shared responsibilities. 

If you are looking for a formal structure, we have two options.

  • Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): 

This model protects personal assets and is flexible for small groups. They are ideal for Service businesses, agencies or self-funded startups who don’t intend to raise VC money anytime soon. They require less paperwork and costs are easy to run, but investors are reluctant to take a bet on them.

  • Private Limited Company: 

Ideal for raising funds, as it looks professional to investors. It is best for startups seeking funding and giving ESOPs to employees with a plan to scale big. A Private Limited Company is the preferred choice by most startups because it limits risks and allows easy expansion. 

Step 5: Register Your Startup

Registration makes your business official. In 2026, registration became easier with digital portals. You don’t need to visit a government office; visit the MCA V3 portal or the National Single Window System. Get digital signatures for founders, using a “Digital Pen.” All founders must buy a digital signature certificate from a government-approved vendor. This is a USB token or a secure cloud file used to sign documents online.

The next step is to file for the SPICe+ form. This form will help your company get a name reservation, incorporation, and DIN allocation by allocating unique ID numbers to directors. It will also cover PAN & TAN, automatically generating the company’s tax IDs. Make sure to use government websites. This process usually takes 1-2 weeks and costs a small fee. Open a separate bank account to keep finances clear.

Brand Name

Once you file a brand name search, please check the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) database to see if the name is available and not taken. Check IP India for trademark violations. And buy the .in or .com domain for your company’s website.

Step 6: DPIIT recognition and Government Support

India’s government boost startups through several programs like Startup India. This program offers benefits such as tax breaks and funding help. To avail these benefits, you need to register with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under Startup India. Apply for recognition online by sharing your idea and documents. Once approved, you gain access to those benefits with faster approvals and networking events. 

Step 7: Arrange Funding

Money is like a fuel driving your startup. Start small with bootstrapping, then approach family, friends or local investors. Apply for bank loans with low-interest schemes offered by the government for startups like the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, for up to Rs 50 lakh. We have the Credit Guarantee Scheme for loans without collateral, too. You may also want to consider crowdfunding sites where people donate or invest in exchange for rewards.

Step 8: Build Your Team

It’s always a team effort to get a successful startup on board. Start by hiring people with the same values and vision as yours. Hire essential roles, like a co-founder, developer or person to market your idea. Finding Talent on Job websites or social networks can help you fasten the process. Offer a fair salary, but if cash is tight, you can use equity to attract top people. Develop a positive team culture and frequently inspire your staff.

Step 9: Develop Your Product 

Now is the time to make a basic model of a product called a minimum viable product (MVP). This allows you to test the service with minimal spending. If it’s software, employ free tools and freelancers. For physical products, prototype first, always. Test it out on a small group first, and address whatever issues your audience has. 

Step 10: Launch and Marketing

Organise a release party or launch announcement online. If you are building something great, marketing is also important to spread the word so people at least know about it. Use social media, email system or ads. Services like YouTube, Instagram WhatsApp are famous with younger audiences. You may have ideas to attract your customers, such as offering a discount for the first 50. Monitor your metrics like user sign-ups, sales and any new ads that get more clicks weekly to do better.

Step 11: Handle Legal and Compliance Issues

Stay on the right side of the law and try to avoid fines. Protect your unique ideas with trademarks. If exporting, check trade rules. Regular check-ups with an advisor keep things compliant without stress. File annual returns with MCA and pay GST monthly or quarterly. You must comply with DPDP Rules for data privacy, especially if handling user info. 

Step 12: Scale Up

Once you have launched your startup and you feel it’s stable, focus on growth. Add new features, enter new areas, and hire more staff. Use data from sales to decide your next step. Monitor finances and pivot if needed. You can also collaborate with others for a bigger reach or international expansion. Continue to seek funding to grow your business.  

Conclusion:

Starting up a business in India is easier than ever for entrepreneurs in 2026 with help from the government and online platforms. It could take years for a business to grow and stabilise. As an entrepreneur, you need to have motivation and not be afraid to ask for help. The article highlighted steps to start a startup in India. It takes time to succeed, so fail but learn from it.

FAQs:

What is the first step to start a startup in India in 2026?

The first step is to find a clear business idea and validate it by understanding the problem you are solving and who your customers are.

Do I need to register my startup legally in India?

Yes, registering your business is important to operate legally, open a bank account, and apply for funding or government benefits.

Which business structure is best for a startup in India?

Most startups choose a Private Limited Company because it is easier to raise funds and offers better credibility.

How much money is required to start a startup in India?

The cost depends on your business type, but many startups begin with a small budget and grow gradually.

Can I start a startup in India without quitting my job?

Yes, many founders start their business part-time and move full-time once the startup becomes stable.

What government support is available for startups in 2026?

The Indian government offers schemes like Startup India, tax benefits, funding support, and mentorship programs.

How can I raise funds for my startup?

You can raise funds through bootstrapping, angel investors, venture capitalists, bank loans, or government grants.

Is GST registration mandatory for all startups?

GST registration is required only if your business crosses the turnover limit or operates in certain sectors.

How important is a business plan for a startup?

A business plan helps you stay focused, attract investors, and understand your growth strategy clearly.

What are the common mistakes new startups should avoid?

Common mistakes include poor market research, overspending early, ignoring legal compliance, and not listening to customer feedback.

Google Backs Indian AI Ecosystem with Founder Training and $2 Mn Co Investment Fund 

Google backs Indian AI ecosystem

Indian artificial intelligence startups are entering a new, more mature phase,  transitioning from mere experimentation to developing products that have global  significance. Recognising this evolution, Google has broadened its initiatives aimed at  startups in India, providing a blend of skill development, mentorship, funding, and  market access to assist founders in scaling their ventures internationally. 

The tech giant is increasingly positioning itself as a facilitator of ecosystems, helping  startups transform their ideas into tangible products and those products into  sustainable, global enterprises. 

Empowering Founders Through Startup School 

At the heart of Google’s initiatives is Startup School 2025, which has trained nearly  90,000 founders across the nation. Impressively, over half of the participants hail from  Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, showcasing Google’s commitment to democratizing innovation  beyond the major urban centres. 

Ragini Das, Head of Google for Startups in India, emphasised that the programme  equips even non-technical founders with essential tools like AI Studio and DevLine,  enabling them to quickly prototype and validate their ideas. She pointed out that speed  is crucial in the early stages, as it influences how founders learn and adapt before  progressing to more advanced training. Building on this momentum, Google is set to  launch three more Startup Schools in 2026 to further expedite product development.

Accelerators and Practical Technical Guidance 

In addition to training, Google is enhancing its accelerator programmes that connect  startups directly with senior engineers from Google Cloud, Android, and DeepMind.  These accelerators are designed to tackle real-world technical challenges, enhance  scalability, and refine market strategies. 

Startups such as SpotDraft, which has slashed contract processing costs by nearly  80%, and Tunesutra, a platform for Indian-language webcomics, have already reaped  the benefits of this hands-on mentorship. Initiatives like Gemini Sprints offer intensive,  short-term support to help startups swiftly transition from development to deployment. 

Infrastructure and Community at the Hyderabad Hub 

Google’s Hyderabad-based Google for Startups hub is pivotal in this ecosystem,  providing founders with a dedicated space for innovation. The hub grants access to  mentorship, venture capital networks, and peer communities, fostering collaboration  and learning among startups while they develop products that can compete on a global  scale. 

Funding Support Enhanced by DeepMind Expertise 

To complement its training and accelerator efforts, Google has launched a $2 million  co-investment fund in collaboration with Accel. This fund aims to support early-stage AI  startups with impactful ideas, while also granting access to advanced models  developed by DeepMind. This combination of funding and infrastructure is designed to  empower startups to create transformative solutions more rapidly. 

One of the significant hurdles Indian startups encounter when expanding globally is the  “trust gap,” which can hinder their acceptance in international markets. Srinath V, a  Google Developer Expert, pointed out that even strong products may face challenges due to institutional and commercial barriers. 

He explained that Google’s endorsement can significantly alter perceptions. When  Indian founders approach global buyers with Google’s backing, their credibility receives  an immediate boost—facilitating their journey across the commercial divide and  enabling them to scale internationally. 

Cultivating the Next Generation of Global AI Leaders 

By integrating extensive founder training, in-depth technical mentorship, targeted  funding, and global credibility, Google is setting the stage for the next generation of  Indian AI startups. The emphasis is not solely on developing advanced technology but  also on empowering Indian founders to transform local innovations into enterprise ready, globally scalable businesses.

OpenAI Bets on Brain-Computer Interfaces With Merge Labs  Investment 

OpenAI bets on brain-computer interfaces

OpenAI has made a noteworthy move towards enhancing human–AI interaction by joining  the seed funding round for Merge Labs, a research-driven organisation focused on pioneering  next-generation brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies. This investment aligns with  OpenAI’s long-term goal of fostering more natural, direct, and high-bandwidth  communication between humans and AI systems. 

Recent reports indicate that Merge Labs has successfully secured around USD 252 million in  funding, achieving a valuation of approximately USD 850 million. This funding round has  attracted prominent global investors, including Bain Capital and Gabe Newell, highlighting a  strong belief in the transformative potential of BCI technology in the realms of computing  and human capability. 

Advancing Interfaces for the Future of Computing 

OpenAI has consistently underscored the significance of interfaces in driving technological  advancements. In a recent blog post, the company remarked, “Progress in interfaces enables  progress in computing,” positioning brain-computer interfaces as a vital evolution in human  communication, learning, and interaction with technology. OpenAI believes that BCIs could  

redefine human–machine collaboration by diminishing the dependence on conventional input  methods like keyboards, touchscreens, or voice commands. 

Merge Labs is dedicated to safely connecting with the human brain at much higher  bandwidths by integrating biology, advanced hardware, and AI-driven systems. The  organisation’s overarching mission is to merge biological intelligence with artificial  intelligence, aiming to enhance human agency, productivity, and cognitive abilities. 

Competitive Landscape and Industry Impact 

This investment places OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman, in a competitive arena alongside  Elon Musk’s Neuralink, another key player in the BCI field. Neuralink is currently  developing implantable brain-computer interface chips designed to allow individuals with 

severe paralysis to control digital devices using neural signals. Last year, Neuralink raised  USD 650 million at a valuation of USD 9 billion, with backing from investors like Sequoia  Capital, Thrive Capital, and Vy Capital. 

While both organisations share the goal of advancing BCIs, their methodologies and strategic  focuses differ, reflecting the growing global interest and innovation in this emerging field. 

The Role of AI in BCI Development 

OpenAI has indicated that artificial intelligence will be pivotal in Merge Labs’ research and  development initiatives. AI systems are anticipated to facilitate advancements in  bioengineering, neuroscience, and device engineering, while also enhancing the practical  usability of BCIs. Specifically, AI will assist in interpreting user intent, personalising  interfaces for individual users, and functioning effectively amidst the inherent noise and  limitations of neural signals. 

OpenAI further emphasised that high-bandwidth neural interfaces will necessitate robust AI  operating systems capable of delivering reliable performance even under complex biological  conditions. As part of this collaboration, OpenAI intends to closely work with Merge Labs on  scientific foundation models and other advanced AI tools to expedite innovation in this area. 

Founding Team and Vision 

Merge Labs was co-founded by researchers Mikhail Shapiro, Tyson Aflalo, and Sumner  Norman, who collectively bring a wealth of experience in neuroscience and BCI research.  The founding team also includes technology entrepreneurs Alex Blania, Sandro Herbig, and  Sam Altman, who is involved in a personal capacity. 

Alex Blania is the CEO and co-founder of Tools for Humanity, the organisation behind the  digital identity initiative, World, and will continue in that role. Sandro Herbig serves as the  founding team president and leads product and engineering at Tools for Humanity. 

Expressing optimism about the collaboration, OpenAI has conveyed its eagerness to support  Merge Labs in transforming an ambitious scientific vision into tangible products that can  provide meaningful benefits to society. Through this partnership, OpenAI aims to play a  significant role in shaping the future of human–AI integration in a responsible and impactful  way.

‘Over 50 Startups Are Being Recognised In India Per Day’:  Industry Minister Piyush Goyal 

Piyush Goyal on startups

Over the last 10 years, India’s startup ecosystem has seen a spectacular metamorphosis,  becoming one of the world’s most vibrant and widely dispersed entrepreneurial environments. Speaking on the occasion of the Startup India initiative’s tenth anniversary, Union Minister  for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal emphasized the extent of this development,  pointing out that over 50 firms are being acknowledged in India every day. 

The Minister emphasized that the government’s prompt and persistent policy interventions  have been crucial in creating a strong, innovative, and business-friendly startup environment.  According to him, the emphasis has been on developing fresh concepts, making it possible  for them to grow, and setting up Indian entrepreneurs for international growth. More chances  for entrepreneurs to enter foreign markets and have a global impact are anticipated as India  fortifies its economic connections with other countries. 

Quick Growth Supported by Robust Policy 

The robustness of this ecosystem is demonstrated by official statistics published by the  Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). As of December 31, 2025,  there were more than two lakh DPIIT-recognized startups in India, which collectively created  more than 21 lakh employment nationwide. With the largest year-over-year increase of 31  percent between 2024 and 2025, the economic momentum has been very robust in recent  years. 

Piyush Goyal reaffirmed that the Startup India initiative has enabled entrepreneurs to turn  concepts into businesses, significantly adding to India’s overall economic development  narrative. He said that during the last ten years, acknowledged startups have grown at a  compound annual growth rate of about 95%, highlighting the ecosystem’s depth and  sustainability. 

Geographically Diverse and Inclusive Growth 

India’s startup path has been renowned for its geographical dispersion. Although there are  startups in every state and Union Territory, more over half of recognized companies presently 

come from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Today, the ecosystem encompasses over 55 businesses,  demonstrating the increasing diversification beyond IT services into areas including  manufacturing, deep tech, agritech, space, defense, and other developing fields. 

Additionally, the ecosystem has witnessed a good movement towards inclusive  entrepreneurship, as evidenced by the fact that over 45% of businesses include at least one  female director or partner. 

The Role of Government in Promoting Growth 

Through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), public procurement has become a potent  growth tool for entrepreneurs. Government buyers are now more accessible thanks to  programs like the GeM Startup Runway and loosened procurement regulations. Over 34,800  startups have been added to the platform as a consequence, and together they have received  over 4.9 lakh orders totaling over ₹49,000 crore, greatly increasing domestic output,  especially among MSMEs. 

The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, which has authorized ₹945 crore and selected over 215  incubators, has significantly boosted early-stage investment. approximately 3,200 businesses  have benefited from these incubators’ approval of approximately ₹590 crore, which has  helped close important financing shortages. 

Global Prospects and Regulatory Reforms 

With a pledged capital of ₹10,000 crore, the government’s Fund of Funds for firms has  enabled investments surpassing ₹25,500 crore in more than 1,370 firms, further accelerating  growth. The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups has made it easier for fledgling businesses  without traditional collateral to get loan funding. 

Additionally, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar recognized that India’s worldwide innovative  footprint has been strengthened by persistent reforms, a strong digital infrastructure, and  strong governmental support. When taken as a whole, these actions have established India’s  startup ecosystem as a major force behind long-term economic development, innovation, and  employment.

Startup India @10: PM Modi calls startups engines of economic change 

Startup India @10

On National Startup Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated India’s vibrant  startup ecosystem, highlighting startups as vital engines of transformation that are shaping the  nation’s economic and social landscape. As we approach the tenth anniversary of the Startup  India initiative in 2026, the Prime Minister reflected on the incredible journey of Indian  entrepreneurship, noting that more than 50 new startups emerge every day. 

In his message shared on X, Prime Minister Modi celebrated the significance of innovation,  risk-taking, and youthful ambition in fostering a robust and self-reliant economy. He  expressed that the decade-long journey of Startup India is a tribute to the courage and  entrepreneurial spirit of India’s youth, who have been instrumental in establishing the country  as a prominent global startup hub. 

A Decade of Policy-Driven Growth 

Over the past ten years, the Startup India initiative has successfully transformed innovative  concepts into scalable businesses through structured policy support, enhanced access to  funding, mentorship, and streamlined compliance processes. As of December 2025, official  data indicates that India boasts over two lakh DPIIT-recognised startups, positioning it  among the largest and most dynamic startup ecosystems worldwide. 

The Prime Minister pointed out that today’s startups are not only driving economic growth  but are also tackling urgent societal and environmental issues. He expressed pride in the  entrepreneurs who have dared to defy traditional norms, embraced risks, and made significant  impacts through innovative solutions. 

Government Reforms Paving New Paths

Emphasising the importance of governance, Prime Minister Modi noted that ongoing reforms  have fostered a supportive environment for startups to venture into previously unexplored  sectors. He highlighted that India’s reform-driven strategy has allowed startups to engage in  complex fields such as space technology, defence manufacturing, and deep tech innovation. 

He also recognised that the success of startups is bolstered by a broader ecosystem, crediting  mentors, investors, incubators, academic institutions, and industry partners for their  invaluable contributions. Their support has been crucial in nurturing young innovators and  fortifying the startup value chain. 

Entrepreneurship Beyond Major Cities 

The growth of startups in India is becoming increasingly inclusive and geographically  diverse. Nearly half of all recognised startups now hail from Tier II and Tier III cities,  showcasing the widespread embrace of entrepreneurship across the nation. Startups are also  playing a pivotal role in bridging the rural-urban divide through innovations in agri-tech,  telemedicine, education, tourism, and microfinance. 

Women-led entrepreneurship has emerged as a vital component of the ecosystem, with over  45 percent of recognised startups having at least one woman founder or director. This shift  signifies a move towards more inclusive and balanced economic growth. 

From Policy Initiative to Nationwide Movement 

Initiated in 2016 under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)  within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Startup India has transformed from a policy  framework into a comprehensive nationwide movement. The initiative now supports startups  throughout their entire lifecycle—from ideation and incubation to funding, mentorship, and  scaling globally. 

This transformation is evident in India’s expanding unicorn landscape, which has seen the  number of unicorns rise from just four in 2014 to over 120 today, with a combined valuation  exceeding USD 350 billion. Startups are not only generating employment across technology,  manufacturing, and services but are also creating indirect jobs through supply chains and gig  platforms. 

Flagship Schemes Fueling Innovation 

Several government-led initiatives have been crucial in driving startup growth. The Fund of  Funds for Startups, with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore, has facilitated investments exceeding  ₹25,500 crore across more than 1,370 startups. The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups has  enabled collateral-free loans, while the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme supports early-stage  innovation. 

Programs like the National Mentorship Portal (MAARG), Atal Innovation Mission, MeitY  Startup Hub, NIDHI, and Atal Tinkering Labs continue to nurture a strong pipeline of future  entrepreneurs, reinforcing India’s vision of becoming a global innovation powerhouse.

Gully Labs secured ₹26.5 crore in a series A funding round led by Saama Capital

Gully Labs ₹26.5 crore funding

Gully Labs has raised ₹26.5 crore (approximately $3 million) in its Series A round of funding. The leading venture capital company, Saama Capital, led this round of investment, and this was a major indication of the confidence that the Indian new D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) market is doing well in the streetwear industry.

Funding details

Series A round had a significant investment by Saama Capital as an anchor investor of ₹22.6 crore. Funding was also characterized by further investment by Zeropearl, an already existing seed-stage investor that contributed ₹3.5 crore. In addition to institutional support, the round included a wide range of high-profile individual and angel investors, such as Roman Saini (Co-founder of Unacademy), Radhika Gupta (MD and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund), Teppan, and Aditya Bhalla. 

To achieve this total capital raise of ₹26.50 crore, the board of Gully Labs gave its approval to issue 10 equity shares and 31,925 Series A compulsorily convertible preference shares (CCPS) at a price of 8,301 each. This new capital injection will make the company worth about ₹147 crore post-money (16.25 million) in value.

Vision and primary objective of Gully Labs

Gully Labs is a sneaker brand based in India. It has the goal of becoming a global household name. The brand seeks to expand the horizons of local narratives and local identities by turning footwear into a cultural canvas due to the desire to break free of the Western-centric design and colonial influences. Their Indian-first ideology is about glorifying the raw, real, and unspoken stories of Indian life, both in the streets of Delhi and in traditional crafts, and makes the Indian culture a worldwide trend and not a niche aesthetic.

Gully Labs has a key mission of transforming the sneaker culture in India by blending the delicate handiwork with modern design. They do this by community first approach and work with the local artists, and with natural resources such as natural rubber, bamboo, and traditional Kantha stitch. 

They work with local karigars (artisans) by offering high-quality and hand-lasted production through a vertically integrated manufacturing unit in Noida. Finally, Gully Labs aims to offer design-oriented customers a unique high-end product that would enable them to both identify with their roots and compete in the global arena of high-end street style clothing.

Conclusion

Gully Labs came into existence because of the need to rebrand the Indian shoe out of the “colonialist influences” and mass production. The brand promotes its sneakers as cultural objects, exploring original Indian stories of the Kulfi summer nostalgia, Patang (kite), and even the collaboration with classic brands like Royal Enfield. The brand philosophy is focused on design-first and local artisanship. Through the local materials and old-style crafts, such as Kantha stitching and Rangoli-inspired designs, Gully Labs has found a way to reach a generation of urban millennials and Gen-Z consumers who embrace fashion concepts based on identity.

Astrotalk sets an ambitious target to achieve a ₹400–500 crore ARR for the e-commerce vertical by the end of FY27

Astrotalk e-commerce ARR target FY27

Astrotalk, the market leader in digital astrology and the spiritual service industry in India, is stepping up efforts to concentrate on retail as its e-commerce division, Astrotalk Store, continues to grow. It has established a high goal of ₹400-500 crore Annualized Run Rate (ARR) of its e-commerce wing by FY27. This strategic push is an indication of a significant expansion of its digital consultation business since the platform will structure the fragmented market of spiritual and astrology-based products.

Rapid growth and inception of Astrotalk Store

In November 2024, Astrotalk was launched. Astrotalk Store already exhibits strong initial momentum. The vertical had already made in excess of ₹140 crore in revenue by the start of 2026 and is already running at more than double that run rate of ₹200 crore annually. This accelerated expansion underscores a high product-market fit, especially because the store is serving a rising consumer need for authentic and checked spiritual products in a setting that, before, was dominated by local and unstandardized vendors.

The Astore Astrotalk was initiated as a direct customer feedback. According to Puneet Gupta, Founder of Astrotalk, the market of spiritual products in India is huge, but in the past has been highly fragmented. Customers had to make a decision between local sellers who had not been standardized and online sellers whose reliability was dubious. Astrotalk has introduced credibility and transparency in a category that never had either, by integrating the expert advice of an astrologer with authentic sourcing and a reputable brand.

The store was originally established as a follow-up on the suggestions by platform-listed astrologers, but it has rapidly developed into a formal trading platform. It was kept in-house with a capital allocation of ₹30 lakh to be able to test out the model’s sustainability as a trust-led model. After achieving repeat purchase behavior and healthy average order values, a ₹40 crore follow-on investment was implemented by the company to scale inventory, reinforce supply chain, and improve technology and marketing initiatives.

Massive expansion and roadmap

Astrotalk is also going to expand its products on a massive scale to achieve the ₹500 crore target of FY27. The company has a pipeline of over 500 new products to be launched through the period FY27. This growth is evidence of a strategic change in sales, moving away from one-time purchases to a more involved daily use and repeat purchase division.

Daman Soni, the Chief Business Officer of Astrotalk Store, believes that this vertical is being looked at by the company in a multi-year perspective of sustainability and scale. As of now, the site has a 24% repeat rate, meaning that it is quite loyal to its customers. It is the metros and the Tier II cities and Tier III cities that are likely to drive future growth, with the latter being predicted to generate half of the future sales. This indicates a wide embrace of the digital spiritual trade outside of the initial metro markets.

Although the e-commerce segment is growing at an enormous pace, the main consultation business of Astrotalk still records well-established dynamics. The company generated ₹1,176 crore in operations revenue in FY25 due to a continuous rise in platform participation and monetization. The store can be incorporated into the main consultation process, which provides a seamless user experience, in which a standardized, fully online channel can be used to implement the recommendations.

The use of omnichannel retail is also a part of a roadmap of the company, and the physical experience centers will serve as a buffer between the physical and the digital world. Astrotalk will seek to further build customer confidence and gain a larger share of the growing spiritual economy in India by providing a hybrid model that combines a combination of face to face consultation with selling products.

Conclusion

The fact that Astrotalk aims to achieve ₹400-500 crore ARR in its ecommerce stream by FY27 shows that the company is evolving into a full spiritual platform. The company is strategically able to put a traditionally unorganized sector into place by harnessing its market leadership in the consulting market and reinvesting in a credible, technology-ified supply chain. With its product expansion package as it grows its geographic presence, the Astrotalk Store is bound to be one of the biggest opportunity providers to the overall revenues of the company as part of its extensive push towards its much-awaited public listing in late 2026.

From Vision to Impact: Founders Transforming India’s Innovation  Landscape 

Founders transforming India’s innovation landscape

As India commemorates National Startup Day 2026, attention is drawn to a vibrant new  wave of entrepreneurs who are reshaping the landscape of business, problem-solving,  and global competition in the country. Spanning sectors like healthcare, clean energy,  artificial intelligence, fashion, and future workplaces, these founders are not merely  launching startups; they are constructing the very framework for India’s forthcoming  economic narrative. Fueled by resilience, innovation, and a focus on execution, they embody the diversity, ambition, and scale of India’s dynamic startup ecosystem. 

Transforming Wellness, Healthcare, and Social Impact

Ajeet Chauhan, the Founder and CEO of In You, is challenging the long-held stigma  surrounding sexual wellness by creating India’s first comprehensive sexual health  nutrition ecosystem. Grounded in clinical science, counselling, and lifestyle-oriented  care, In You has successfully reached over 10,000 consumers through a discreet direct to-consumer model, prioritising tangible results over temporary solutions.  

In the realm of primary healthcare, Sujay Santra, Founder and CEO of iKure Techsoft, is  revolutionising access to healthcare at the grassroots level. With technology-driven  clinics operating in 11 states and impacting over 36 million lives, iKure exemplifies how  compassion and innovation can sustainably enhance healthcare delivery. 

Driving India’s AI, IoT, and Deep-Tech Aspirations 

Gaurav Jaiswal, Founder and CEO of KRAFTORS AI & Research, is pioneering privacy centric, on-premise AI solutions for enterprises managing sensitive information. With  platforms like Kraftlens and accolades from Forbes and NVIDIA, Kraftors is at the  forefront of developing sovereign, compliance-ready AI solutions from India.  

In the field of industrial automation, Surajit Datta, Founder and Director of Augmatic  Technologies, is crafting essential IoT and embedded hardware solutions tailored for  complex environments. By merging research and development with manufacturing, 

Augmatic fosters rapid innovation and reliable deployment across various global  industrial applications. 

Promoting Clean Mobility and Sustainable Infrastructure

Jaideep Singh Shaktawat, Founder and CEO of YoCharge, is propelling India’s electric  mobility sector forward with intelligent EV charging software. Active in over 25 countries  and managing more than 3 GWh of charging monthly, YoCharge is making significant strides towards India’s clean energy and net-zero objectives. 

Cultivating Modern Consumer and Enterprise Brands 

Kapil Gupta, Founder and CEO of Ruhe, is transforming India’s kitchen and bath  industry with a digital-first, Make-in-India ethos. By leveraging online distribution and  collaborating with over 1,000 retail outlets, Ruhe harmonises global quality with local manufacturing.  

In the workspace arena, Karan Talwar, Founder of Beyond Just Work, is redefining  coworking by emphasising community, adaptability, and thoughtful design. With more  than 10 centres across Delhi NCR, the brand prioritises people-centric office  environments over mere transactional real estate. 

Exploring Fashion, Drones, and Emerging Industries 

Smit Gada, Founder of The Bluer, has established a rapidly growing denim brand rooted  in craftsmanship, authentic design, and organic growth. What started with a single  computer at home has blossomed into a community-supported fashion label with over  140,000 customers.  

At the same time, Paras Jain, Founder of Indo Wings, is implementing indigenous drone  technologies in agriculture, infrastructure, and disaster management, aligning his  innovations with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Divine Solitaires announced the opening of its maiden seed funding round, targeting $10 million in seed fundraise

Divine Solitaires $10 million seed funding

Divine Solitaires has declared a maiden seed funding round in a strategic step to redefine the scenario in the Indian diamond industry. The natural diamond solitaire brand, with its headquarters based in Mumbai are proposing an investment of $10 million to give it a new level of boost and establish itself as a market leader in the niche solitaire market.

Primary objective and capital allocation

The main aim of this fundraise is to grow Divine Solitaires to a $250-300 million business in three or four years to come out of its present state. The brand, which was established in 2006 by Jignesh Mehta and Shailen Mehta, has also found its niche in specialising in natural diamond solitaire jewellery, and has left the more unstructured diamond market behind.

In India, the solitaire diamond jewellery market is currently pegged at 10-15 years with an amount of between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 crore and a stable annual growth rate of 10-12%. Divine Solitaires, being the sole brand of the category fully committed, seeks to attain an impressive market share of 20-25% within the next five to seven years. The brand currently serves a strong customer base, and it is increasing it at the rate of about 15,000-20,000 new customers every year, with over 35% of them being first-time diamond purchasers.

The management has also laid down a clear roadmap in which the $10 million capital is to be deployed. It is set to spend around 60% of the fund on intensive brand-building and awareness campaigns. Although the company has a solid base in terms of the quality of its product, it has noted a gap in consumer awareness, which it needs to fill to meet its aggressive selling goals.

The remaining 40% of the investment shall be allocated to some of the operational and infrastructure priorities. Working Capital Optimisation, which guarantees a smooth supply chain to keep abreast with the increasing customer demand for solitaires. Technology and IT Upgrades, developing digital capabilities to provide an omnichannel retail experience. Team Expansion, hiring of specialised talent to handle the estimated expansion in different business areas.

Operational efficiencies

Divine Solitaires is already financially sound, with its profitability increasing by 30% over the last year. This has been sustained by the efficiencies in operations and the strategic unveiling of new product categories. The brand has also diversified to accommodate a more varied demographic by extending its portfolio to fancy color diamonds, various shapes and smaller-sized diamonds.

The firm is also diversifying its value propositions by launching diamond coins as a contemporary alternative to the traditional gold coins when giving gifts. Although the brand employs an omnichannel strategy, it is almost entirely through its wide network of offline that the brand manages to produce approximately 95% of its business. Divine Solitaires has deployed a shop-in-shop business approach in 215 partner stores in 108 cities, which gives it an enormous physical presence in both the metro and tier-II/III markets.

Conclusion

The move to raise $10 million as seed capital will be a turning point for Divine Solitaires. The combination of its strict quality policies, with all its diamonds graded on 123 parameters, and a new injection of capital will witness the brand shift out of a successful niche player to a formidable retailer. Since it is aimed at a multi-million dollar valuation, the transparency, technology, and brand consciousness that the company has developed will be decisive in the untapped potential of the growing demand for natural high-quality diamonds in India.

Airtel, Tata group firms likely to jointly seek AGR relief similar to Vi 

Airtel Tata AGR relief

According to reports, Bharti Airtel and the telecom companies Tata Teleservices Limited  (TTSL) and Tata Teleservices Maharashtra Limited (TTML) of the Tata Group are thinking  of approaching the Indian government together to request exemption from their adjusted  gross revenue (AGR) obligations. This comes after Vodafone Idea (Vi) was given a long term extension on its AGR payment requirements by the Department of Telecommunications  (DoT). 

According to a story published in The Economic Times, the corporations feel that other  telecom operators operating under the same regulatory framework should be given the same  consideration if relief has been granted to one of them. According to reports, the companies  are assessing the potential for group talks with the government and may, if necessary, go into  legal options. 

Vodafone Idea’s AGR Relief and Its Implications 

Vodafone Idea has recently received a significant boost with a 10-year moratorium on its  AGR dues, as granted by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The company’s  outstanding AGR liability, which stands at approximately ₹87,695 crore, has now been  postponed until 2035. 

This decision has come as a major relief for Vodafone Idea during a crucial period. The  extended repayment timeline alleviates immediate cash flow pressures and enhances the  company’s capacity to secure funding from banks and financial institutions. This financial  respite is anticipated to bolster Vodafone Idea’s ongoing investments in network expansion,  including stabilising its 4G services and rolling out 5G technology. Many industry observers  view this support as vital for the company’s survival in the fiercely competitive Indian  telecom landscape. 

Concerns from Airtel and Tata Group Firms

Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL) and Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited (TTML)  collectively face AGR dues nearing ₹19,259 crore, while Bharti Airtel’s outstanding AGR  liability is approximately ₹48,103 crore. These firms were expected to resume their AGR  repayments starting in March this year, following the previous moratorium. 

Industry stakeholders have raised concerns that providing extended relief solely to one  operator could create an uneven playing field. Telecom executives argue that this selective  relief might put other operators at a financial disadvantage and distort market competition. As  a result, these companies are advocating for equitable policy treatment to ensure fairness  across the sector. 

Background of the AGR Dispute 

In September 2021, the government allowed telecom operators to defer AGR payments for  four years, extending up to FY26. While this measure offered temporary relief, interest  continued to accumulate on the outstanding amounts during the deferment. The intent was to  give the industry some breathing room to recover from the financial strain that followed the  Supreme Court’s 2019 AGR ruling. 

More recently, in November 2025, the Supreme Court chose not to intervene in the  government’s decision to provide additional relief to Vodafone Idea, acknowledging the  company’s precarious financial situation. The court recognised the government’s authority to  implement policies aimed at maintaining competition in the telecom sector, while also noting  that such relief could lead to similar requests from other operators. 

What Lies Ahead 

Legal experts suggest that Airtel and the Tata Group may seek judicial intervention for  comparable relief; however, the outcome remains uncertain. The Supreme Court has  previously indicated that AGR relief is primarily a matter of government policy rather than  just an issue of equitable treatment. 

Analysts also highlight that Vodafone Idea’s circumstances are markedly different from those  of its competitors. The company continues to grapple with severe financial difficulties, while  Bharti Airtel has significantly improved its standing since the AGR verdict. Airtel has  returned to profitability, raised capital, expanded its network, and currently holds nearly 40  per cent market share in India’s telecom sector.

Assam’s startup revolution as a ₹200 crore venture fund ignites youth-led innovation to provide essential financial lifelines to local innovators

Assam venture fund ₹200 crore

During the National Startup Day, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared a major boost in the entrepreneurial environment in the state. With a mix of highly targeted policy support, institutional support, and a wave of youth-led innovation, the state is rapidly taking steps towards becoming one of the leading startup locations in India. At the heart of this initiative is the creation of the ₹200 Crore Assam Venture Capital Fund, which will help innovators in the area receive the much-needed financial lifelines.

Strategic move and primary objective

It is not only that the movement has shifted out of the traditional models of business; rather, it has found its way into high-growth areas like agri-tech, food processing, healthcare, education technology, and green enterprises. This diversification makes the economic growth of the state modern and sustainable.

The establishment of the ₹200 crore Assam Venture Capital Fund is a strategic step towards one of the most critical challenges of early-stage businesses, the innovation-to-investment gap. According to the Chief Minister, this fund is particularly meant to finance promising startups in their critical early and development phases.

Among the main goals of this financial support is to make sure that the local talent will be able to compete on a national scale without having to relocate to other states. Assam is not only keeping the best talent in the state but also enabling them to address the local issues with international potential by providing them with what some people refer to as belief capital. This institutional support is a booster, as it promotes a culture of risk-taking, which is backed by real governmental investment.

Inclusive growth

Besides venture finance, the state is also using the Chief Minister’s Atmanirbhar Assam Abhijan (CMAAA) to create an environment of self-employment. This programme is an addition to the startup policy as it provides financial support, skills transfer, and market access to thousands of youths, especially in the rural and semi-urban regions.

With the emphasis on inclusive growth, the CMAAA ensures that the opportunities of the startup movement are not confined to urban centres. The combination of high-tech venture capital and the grassroots self-employment efforts is developing a holistic landscape where innovation and enterprise are becoming the key to the identity of the youth in Assam.

Conclusion

The experience of Assam during the National Startup Day 2026 is a demonstration of how a specific state intervention can be transformative. The state is managing to rewrite its economic story with more than 600 startups already in its incubation pipeline and a ₹200 crore committed fund that is prepared to drive its growth in the future.

The aim, as Chief Minister Sarma has underlined, is to provide an enabling environment through which the next generation would be able to innovate, take risks, and make a sustainable impact. It is an organised process that does not just honor the spirit of enterprise but would keep Assam an engaging and participatory part of the greater innovation system in India.

As Google deepens its push, India’s AI startups shift from pilots to production

Google AI India strategy

The artificial intelligence (AI) story of India is facing a paradigm shift, replacing experimental pilot implementations with high-impact and scale manufacturing. In a massive breakthrough event at the Google AI Startups Conclave on January 15, 2026, Google executives and industry leaders pointed out that almost 47% of Indian enterprises have already migrated their use cases of AI to production, which is an undoubted move towards sustainable, revenue-based business models.

Program focus

Although the trip between research laboratories and useful prototypes has become resilient within the past few years, most Indian startups continue to have issues with the so-called commercial final mile, the hard part of the journey between a successful pilot and a repeatable enterprise adoption. To solve this, Google created the Market Access Program, which is a specialized engine that assists AI-first startups in growing in a responsible way.

The program targets three outcomes that are critical to founders. Enterprise Readiness offers competitive programs on global enterprise selling, multifaceted pricing models, and international buyer psychology. Global Network, which introduces the global network of Google CIOs and CXOs. International Immersion, forging physical connections with major tech and buying centers around the world.

Full-stack support and concept of Bharat-tested

Google repeated its support to the Indian ecosystem in the form of a full-stack, including infrastructure, advanced models, and safety. The next major element of this plan is the future Global AI Hub in Visakhapatnam, a 1-gigawatt hub, and should be seen as an AI economy anchor point in the long term.

Google also added to its Gemma open model family to drive deep-tech innovation. MedGemma 1.5 is an open-source 4-billion-parameter model that is intended to support healthcare AI on a population scale. It aids in complicated medical imaging, such as CT scans, MRIs, and histopathology. This is after it partnered with AIIMS to create the Health Foundation Models in India.

FunctionGemma, an open-source lightweight system optimized to support a function call, allows startups to create AI agents with low latency that can operate reliably on even low-end devices, without constant internet connectivity.

According to the recently released Bharat AI Startups Report 2026, a Google-Inc42 collaboration, it is estimated that the AI market in India will become a $126 billion industry by 2030. The report repositions the peculiarities of India that include language diversity and incomplete connectivity as the strongest competitive advantage.

The Bharat-tested concept is becoming a worldwide standard of resilience. The assumption is straightforward: once an AI agent can perform at a high level of reliability with a rural user in India and different dialects and limitations, it is viable to be successful in any part of the world. In addition, since computing costs are declining because of mass digital infrastructure, founders are no longer investing their capital in infrastructure maintenance but in pure product innovation.

Conclusion

The age of artificial intelligence buzzwords is giving way to the stage of quantifiable results and execution discipline. Going into the year 2026, trust-by-design has become the center of interest among Indian startups as they strive to secure the ability to win long-term enterprise contracts by incorporating safety and privacy into the core of their products.

As sovereign AI projects overlap, innovation costs drop, and the ecosystem is supported by players on the global stage, such as Google, India is quickly emerging not only as a consumer of AI but also as a main source of globally competitive and resilient AI applications.