Rajasthan startup ecosystem: DPIIT engagement meet backs growth in districts

Entrepreneurs, investors and government representatives met on Friday to review Rajasthan’s startup ecosystem. The group discussed how to take startup support into districts. They also spoke about reaching underserved communities. The talks focused on opportunities in the state, along with key hurdles for founders and backers.

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The engagement programme took place at Bhamashah Techno Hub. DPIIT, under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, organised it with the Rajasthan government. Founders, incubators, investors, academia and officials joined. The event offered a single platform for dialogue, feedback and possible joint work.

DPIIT startup ecosystem engagement programme in Rajasthan

Ateesh Kumar Singh, Additional Secretary in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade DPIIT, said the next step must shift focus. "Rajasthans journey stands out as a model of sustained commitment. The focus must now extend beyond metro hubs to districts and underserved communities,\" Singh said. The remarks set the theme for the wider discussion.

During the programme, Singh met key stakeholders from Rajasthan’s startup ecosystem. Singh sought views on local opportunities and constraints. The conversations also examined how state-led steps can support entrepreneurship. Officials linked this work with goals of sustainable development across the state.

Startup India initiative and DPIIT schemes for startups

Singh also spoke about changes under the Startup India initiative over the last decade. Singh described a roadmap for the next phase of growth. The approach relied on Centre-state coordination. Participants then attended a briefing from the Startup India team on available schemes.

The presentation covered DPIIT recognition and related benefits. It also outlined funding support options and market access steps. Capacity-building initiatives were explained for founders and ecosystem partners. The session aimed to help stakeholders understand how to use these tools across Rajasthan.

ONDC network and business opportunities for startups

MD and CEO of Open Network for Digital Commerce, Vibhor Jain, spoke on using the ONDC network. Jain said the network could help expand business opportunities. Jain also referred to DigiDukaan and Amazing India. The initiatives were described as support for MSMEs, artisans and retailers.

The programme ended with participants aligning on gaps and possible solutions. The discussions kept attention on districts and underserved communities. Speakers linked future progress to cooperation between the Centre and Rajasthan. The event at Bhamashah Techno Hub added another forum for stakeholders to share needs and plans.

With inputs from PTI