Title: Giving fancy packaging to ice-creams & cookies is not start-up: Piyush Goyal
In an effort to redefine the concept of entrepreneurship, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal recently emphasized that giving fancy packaging to ice-creams and cookies does not make it a start-up. Speaking at the Startup Mahakumbh 2025, Goyal stressed that such endeavors are merely a business model and not a true start-up.
The Minister’s remarks come at a time when the Indian startup ecosystem is witnessing a surge in the number of new businesses, with many entrepreneurs focusing on creating innovative products and services. However, Goyal’s comments suggest that simply dressing up existing ideas with fancy packaging does not necessarily qualify as a start-up.
Goyal’s assertion is based on his observation that most startups in India are not focused on deep-tech areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D printing, which are driving innovation globally. He pointed out that only about 1,000 startups in India’s deep-tech space is a disturbing situation, implying that the country is lagging behind in terms of technological advancements.
The Minister emphasized that start-ups in other nations are focused on cutting-edge technologies like AI and 3D printing, which have the potential to transform industries and create new opportunities. In contrast, many Indian startups are still stuck in traditional areas like e-commerce, food delivery, and ride-hailing, which, although popular, are not necessarily driving innovation.
Goyal’s comments have sparked a debate among entrepreneurs and industry experts, with some agreeing with his assessment and others disagreeing. Some argue that entrepreneurship is not just about creating new technologies, but also about identifying gaps in the market and creating innovative solutions to meet those needs.
For instance, a startup that develops a unique packaging solution for ice-creams and cookies may not be creating a new technology, but it is still providing a innovative solution to a real problem. Others argue that Goyal’s comments are too narrow-minded and do not take into account the diversity of the startup ecosystem.
However, Goyal’s remarks also highlight the need for Indian startups to focus on creating innovative products and services that can compete globally. The Minister’s emphasis on deep-tech areas like AI and 3D printing is aimed at encouraging startups to focus on areas that have the potential to drive growth and create jobs.
In conclusion, Piyush Goyal’s comments at Startup Mahakumbh 2025 have sparked a debate about the definition of a start-up. While some may disagree with his assessment, his emphasis on the need for Indian startups to focus on deep-tech areas like AI and 3D printing is a timely reminder of the importance of innovation and competitiveness in today’s global economy.
News Source:
https://x.com/moneycontrolcom/status/1907795297826378009
