Giving Fancy Packaging to Ice-Creams & Cookies is Not Start-up: Piyush Goyal
In a recent statement at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal clarified that giving fancy packaging to ice-creams and cookies doesn’t qualify as a start-up. According to him, it’s essentially entrepreneurship and a business model. This statement has sent shockwaves across the startup ecosystem, leaving many entrepreneurs questioning the definition of a start-up.
Goyal’s statement was made in response to the growing trend of entrepreneurs using fancy packaging to market their products as start-ups. Many small businesses, especially those in the food industry, are using attractive packaging to make their products stand out in a crowded market. However, Goyal believes that this approach is not innovative or groundbreaking, and therefore, does not qualify as a start-up.
A start-up, by definition, is a young company that is typically characterized by its innovative and entrepreneurial spirit. Start-ups often disrupt traditional industries and create new markets by introducing innovative products or services. They are typically founded by individuals who have a passion for innovation and are willing to take risks to bring their ideas to life.
Goyal’s statement has sparked a debate in the startup community, with many entrepreneurs arguing that his definition of a start-up is too narrow. They point out that many successful start-ups have been launched by individuals who have taken innovative approaches to packaging and marketing their products. For example, the rise of e-commerce has led to a proliferation of start-ups that are focused on creating unique and sustainable packaging solutions.
However, Goyal’s argument is not without merit. He points out that many start-ups in India’s deep-tech space are not living up to their potential. According to him, only 1,000 start-ups in India’s deep-tech space is a disturbing situation. He believes that start-ups in other nations are focused on AI and 3D printing, which are areas that have the potential to drive significant economic growth and innovation.
Goyal’s comments are also a reflection of the broader challenges facing the startup ecosystem in India. The country has seen a surge in the number of start-ups in recent years, but many of these start-ups are struggling to scale and achieve profitability. According to a recent report by the Indian Startup Ecosystem Report, only 10% of start-ups in India are able to achieve profitability.
Goyal’s statement has also sparked a debate about the role of government in supporting start-ups. Some entrepreneurs argue that the government should provide more support to start-ups, including funding and regulatory assistance. Others argue that the government’s focus should be on creating a business-friendly environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.
In conclusion, Piyush Goyal’s statement that giving fancy packaging to ice-creams and cookies is not start-up has sparked a debate in the startup community. While Goyal’s definition of a start-up may be narrow, his comments are a reminder of the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in driving economic growth and development. As the startup ecosystem in India continues to evolve, it is essential that entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors work together to create a supportive environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.
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