Piyush Goyal Launches National Helpline for Startups
In a bid to provide a smoother and more supportive environment for entrepreneurs, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has launched a national helpline for startups. The helpline, which will be set up under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), will serve as a one-stop-shop for startups to address any issues or concerns they may have.
The helpline, which will be operational soon, was announced by Goyal during a startup conclave in New Delhi. In his address, Goyal urged startups to call the helpline if they face any trouble with government officials or want to suggest any regulatory reform. He emphasized the importance of startups in driving innovation and growth in the country, and the need for the government to provide a conducive environment for them to thrive.
“We want to make sure that startups feel heard and supported,” Goyal said. “If there’s any issue, if there’s any difficulty, if there’s any problem with government officials, please call us. We want to listen to you, we want to address your concerns, and we want to make sure that you have a smooth journey.”
The helpline is part of the government’s efforts to provide a more streamlined and efficient process for startups to interact with the government. The government has also set up a Startup India Desk, which will serve as a single point of contact for startups to seek help and guidance.
In addition to the helpline, the government has also approved a second ₹10,000 crore fund of funds (FoF) for startups. The FoF, which is part of the Startup India initiative, aims to provide financial support to startups and help them grow and scale.
The first FoF, which was launched in 2016, has already shown promising results, with investments of over ₹4,000 crore in over 200 startups. The second FoF is expected to build on this success and provide further support to startups in various sectors.
The government’s efforts to support startups are part of its broader strategy to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in the country. The government has also launched initiatives such as the Startup India Action Plan, which aims to create a more favorable business environment for startups.
The action plan, which was launched in 2016, has several key components, including the setting up of a startups India hub, the launch of a startup visa, and the creation of a startup-friendly tax regime. The plan also aims to provide support to startups in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and energy.
In addition to the helpline and the FoF, the government has also launched several other initiatives to support startups, including the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme and the Startup India Hub. The seed fund scheme provides financial support to startups in the form of grants and loans, while the hub provides a platform for startups to connect with investors, mentors, and other stakeholders.
The government’s efforts to support startups have received a positive response from the startup community. Many startups have praised the government’s initiatives and expressed hope that they will lead to greater support and recognition for startups in the country.
“Startups are the future of India, and the government’s initiatives are a step in the right direction,” said a startup founder. “We hope that the helpline and the FoF will provide greater support and recognition for startups, and help us to grow and scale.”
In conclusion, the launch of the national helpline for startups and the approval of the second FoF are significant steps forward for the startup ecosystem in India. The helpline and the FoF will provide greater support and recognition for startups, and help to create a more favorable business environment for entrepreneurs.
