Quote“Country's development is getting new momentum by the young energy”
Quote“In the short period of 8 years, the startup story of the country has undergone a massive transformation”
Quote“After 2014, the government restored faith in the innovation strength of youth and created a conducive ecosystem”
Quote“Launch of Start-Up India 7 years ago was a big step in turning ideas into innovation and taking them to industry”
Quote“There is unprecedented emphasis on ease of doing business as well as on ease of living in India”

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi launched the Madhya Pradesh Startup Policy during the Madhya Pradesh Startup Conclave being held in Indore, today, via video conferencing. He also launched the Madhya Pradesh Startup portal, which will facilitate and help promote the startup ecosystem. He also interacted with the startup entrepreneurs.

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Interacting with Shri Tanu Tejas Saraswat founder of online store to organise Kirana stores - Shop Kirana, the Prime Minister enquired about his background and how he got the idea to start this business. The Prime Minister asked about the opportunity and growth in this business. He also asked how many kirana stores were linked to his startup and why he chose Indore for his startup. The PM asked whether one can organise the street vendors who are benefited by SVANIDHI.

Interacting with Ms Umang Shreedhar founder of Umang Shreedhar Designs Private Limited from Bhopal, the Prime Minister was informed about their innovation in Khadi and creating products for big companies. The Prime Minister was told that the journey of the startup has been coterminous with the government as she started the company in 2014. She also informed him about her work with the women. The PM asked about the improvement and value addition which she has brought about among the women via her startup. She informed that the income of women artisan increased by almost 300 per cent. She also talked about training women to graduate from artisan to entrepreneurs. The Prime MInister inquired about her work in Kashi and complimented her for being a job creator and an inspiration.

Interacting with Shri Tausif Khan from Indore, the Prime Minister was informed that his organization is working to double the income of farmers. They have created technological solutions which are being provided to farmers through digital and physical means. The Prime Minister asked whether one can integrate the soil testing facilities to the farmers connected with his startup. The Prime Minister was informed about the ways of doing soil testing and sharing the report digitally with the farmers. They are also promoting organic and microbial manure. The Prime Minister also asked about the adoption of natural farming among the farmers. The Prime MInister wished that similar to Indore excelling in Swachh Sarvekshan, the farmers of Indore district should also set an example for chemical free farming.

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Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that the country's development is getting new momentum by the young energy. There is a feeling, as there is a proactive startup policy, there is an equally diligent startup leadership in the country. The Prime Minister mentioned that in the short period of 8 years, the startup story of the country has undergone a massive transformation. He recalled that in 2014 when his Government was formed, the number of startups in the country was about 300-400. Today there are about 70000 recognized startups. He said that every 7-8 days a new unicorn is made in this country.

The Prime Minister also noted the diversity of start-ups. He said about 50% of startups are from Tier II & Tier III cities and they cover many states and cities. They are associated with more than 50 industries. He said startups give solutions to real world problems. Today’s startups become future MNCs. He said the concept of startup was discussed among a few people 8 years ago and has now become a part of discussion among the common people. He said that this change is not fluke but is a result of a well thought out strategy.

He dwelled on the story of innovative solutions in India and lamented the lack of encouragement to the momentum of the IT revolution and failure of channelling the opportunity. Entire one decade went wasted in the scams and chaos of those times. He said that after 2014, the government restored faith in the innovation strength of the youth and created a conducive ecosystem. He informed about the three pronged approach to push the sector by creating a roadmap ranging from idea to innovation to industry. First part of this strategy, he said, was the notion of idea ,innovate, incubate and industry. Institutions related to these processes were created and strengthened. Second, easing of Government regulations. Thirdly, change in mindset for innovation by creating a new ecosystem. Keeping this in mind, steps like hackathons were taken. 15 lakh talented youngsters have been involved in this hackathon movement creating an ecosystem for startups.

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The Prime Minister said that the launch of Start-Up India 7 years ago was a big step in turning ideas into innovation and taking them to industry. One year later, the Atal Innovation Mission was launched with a set up of Atal Tinkering labs in schools and incubation centres in higher education institutions. More than 10 thousand schools have the tinkering labs and more than 75 lakh students are being exposed to the atmosphere of innovation. Similarly National Education Policy also promotes innovation. Private investment is increasing in the innovation sector.

He said reforms carried out in the space sector, mapping, drones, etc are opening new opportunities for the startups. To improve the ease of bringing the products of the startups to the market, GeM portal was established. More than 13000 startups are registered on GeM Portal and have done business worth 6500 crore rupees on the portal. Digital India gave a major push for the development of startups and opening of new markets. He said the startups have a major role in developing the tourism sector. Startups will also help in giving a boost for Vocal for Local. Startups can also help Tribals to bring their handicrafts and products to the market. He said the Government is giving a big push for the gaming industry and toy industry. He also noted the potential in the frontier technologies for startups. He also informed that more than 800 Indian startups are involved in the sports sector.

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The Prime Minister said that “we have to provide new momentum and height to India’s success. Today India is the fastest growing economy among the G-20 economies.” He also said that India is the third largest economy of the world. India is at the first place in terms of smartphone, data consumption and second in terms of Internet users. India is at the second place in the Global Retail Index, India is the third largest energy consumer country of the world and the world's third largest consumer market is in India. India has created a new record by doing merchandise exports worth 470 billion dollars this year. There is unprecedented investment in the infrastructure. There is unprecedented emphasis on ease of doing business as well as ease of living in India. These facts make every Indian proud and generate a belief that India’s growth story will move forward with new energy in this decade. Our efforts in the Amrit Kaal will set the direction of the country and we will fulfil the aspirations of the country with our collective endeavour, said the Prime Minister.

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The World This Week On India
February 25, 2025

This week, India reinforced its position as a formidable force on the world stage, making headway in artificial intelligence, energy security, space exploration, and defence. From shaping global AI ethics to securing strategic partnerships, every move reflects India's growing influence in global affairs.

And when it comes to diplomacy and negotiation, even world leaders acknowledge India's strength. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, known for his tough negotiating style, put it simply:

“[Narendra Modi] is a much tougher negotiator than me, and he is a much better negotiator than me. There’s not even a contest.”

With India actively shaping global conversations, let’s take a look at some of the biggest developments this week.

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AI for All: India and France Lead a Global Movement

The future of AI isn’t just about technology—it’s about ethics and inclusivity. India and France co-hosted the Summit for Action on AI in Paris, where 60 countries backed a declaration calling for AI that is "open," "inclusive," and "ethical." As artificial intelligence becomes a geopolitical battleground, India is endorsing a balanced approach—one that ensures technological progress without compromising human values.

A Nuclear Future: India and France Strengthen Energy Security

In a world increasingly focused on clean energy, India is stepping up its nuclear power game. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed their commitment to developing small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), a paradigm shift in the transition to a low-carbon economy. With energy security at the heart of India’s strategy, this collaboration is a step toward long-term sustainability.

Gaganyaan: India’s Space Dream Inches Closer

India’s ambitions to send astronauts into space took a major leap forward as the budget for the Gaganyaan mission was raised to $2.32 billion. This is more than just a scientific milestone—it’s about proving that India is ready to stand alongside the world’s leading space powers. A successful human spaceflight will set the stage for future interplanetary missions, pushing India's space program to new frontiers.

India’s Semiconductor Push: Lam Research Bets Big

The semiconductor industry is the backbone of modern technology, and India wants a bigger share of the pie. US chip toolmaker Lam Research announced a $1 billion investment in India, signalling confidence in the country’s potential to become a global chip manufacturing hub. As major companies seek alternatives to traditional semiconductor strongholds like Taiwan, India is positioning itself as a serious contender in the global supply chain.

Defence Partnerships: A New Era in US-India Military Ties

The US and India are expanding their defence cooperation, with discussions of a future F-35 fighter jet deal on the horizon. The latest agreements also include increased US military sales to India, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. Meanwhile, India is also deepening its energy cooperation with the US, securing new oil and gas import agreements that reinforce economic and security ties.

Energy Security: India Locks in LNG Supply from the UAE

With global energy markets facing volatility, India is taking steps to secure long-term energy stability. New multi-billion-dollar LNG agreements with ADNOC will provide India with a steady and reliable supply of natural gas, reducing its exposure to price fluctuations. As India moves toward a cleaner energy future, such partnerships are critical to maintaining energy security while keeping costs in check.

UAE Visa Waiver: A Boon for Indian Travelers

For Indians residing in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, visiting the UAE just became a lot simpler. A new visa waiver, effective February 13, will save Dh750 per person and eliminate lengthy approval processes. This move makes travel to the UAE more accessible and strengthens business and cultural ties between the two countries.

A Gift of Friendship: Trump’s Gesture to Modi

During his visit to India, Donald Trump presented Prime Minister Modi with a personalized book chronicling their long-standing friendship. Beyond the usual diplomatic formalities, this exchange reflects the personal bonds that sometimes shape international relations as much as policies do.

Memory League Champion: India’s New Star of Mental Speed

India is making its mark in unexpected ways, too. Vishvaa Rajakumar, a 20-year-old Indian college student, stunned the world by memorizing 80 random numbers in just 13.5 seconds, winning the Memory League World Championship. His incredible feat underscores India’s growing reputation for mental agility and cognitive

excellence on the global stage.

India isn’t just participating in global affairs—it’s shaping them. Whether it’s setting ethical AI standards, securing energy independence, leading in space exploration, or expanding defence partnerships, the country is making bold, strategic moves that solidify its role as a global leader.

As the world takes note of India’s rise, one thing is clear: this journey is just getting started.