Major Policy Boost for Growing Startups as Recognition Criteria Expanded
In a significant development for Bharat’s startup ecosystem, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has revised the turnover threshold for Startup Recognition from ₹100 crore to ₹200 crore. The change has been notified through Gazette Notification 108(E) dated 4 February 2026, enabling a larger number of high-growth startups to remain eligible for recognition under the Startup India initiative.
The revised threshold is expected to benefit scaling startups that have experienced rapid revenue growth but still require policy support, market access opportunities, and ecosystem benefits available through Startup India recognition.
What Has Changed?
Under the previous framework, startups crossing an annual turnover of ₹100 crore ceased to qualify for Startup Recognition. With the latest notification, the turnover limit has now been doubled to ₹200 crore, allowing eligible businesses to continue enjoying recognition and associated benefits for a longer period during their growth journey.
This move reflects the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and business expansion while recognizing the evolving scale of India’s startup ecosystem.
Benefits for Startups
The revised threshold is expected to:
- Support startups during their scaling phase.
- Encourage innovation and long-term business growth.
- Expand the pool of recognized startups under Startup India.
- Strengthen investor confidence in emerging ventures.
- Enhance access to various startup ecosystem opportunities and government-supported initiatives.
Updated Startup Recognition Certificates Available
DPIIT-recognized startups are advised to log in to the Startup India portal using their registered credentials and download their updated Startup Recognition Certificates reflecting the revised eligibility criteria.
Industry experts believe the decision will provide greater flexibility for fast-growing ventures and further strengthen Bharat’s position as one of the world’s leading startup ecosystems.
Conclusion
The increase in the Startup Recognition turnover threshold from ₹100 crore to ₹200 crore marks a major policy milestone for Bharat’s entrepreneurial landscape. By allowing more startups to remain within the recognized ecosystem as they scale, the government aims to create a stronger environment for innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
