What is Startup India?

Startup India is a flagship initiative by the Government of India, launched in January 2016, to promote and support entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation through a robust ecosystem of incentives and ease-of-doing-business policies.

Eligibility Criteria for Startup India Recognition:

To be recognized as a Startup under Startup India, your business must:

What is Organisation DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)?

• A DSC is a digital equivalent of a physical signature used for secure online authentication.

• Organisation DSC is issued to businesses (not individuals) and is required for signing forms, documents, applications during Startup India registration, MCA filings, GST, EPFO, and more.

Why it’s important for Startup India:

• Required to digitally sign and submit applications to DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade)

• Ensures authenticity, security, and non-repudiation of business filings

Key Benefits of Startup India Registration (DPIIT Recognition):

1. Self-Certification & Compliance

• Startups can self-certify under:

  • Labour laws (e.g., PF, Gratuity)

  • Environmental laws

• No inspection for 3-5 years under these laws

2. Tax Benefits

• 3-Year Income Tax Exemption under Section 80-IAC (subject to inter-ministerial board approval)

• Exemption from Angel Tax under Section 56(2)(viib)

3. Easy Access to Funding

• Access to ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds (FoF)

• Easier equity funding and venture capital support

4. IPR Support (Intellectual Property Rights)

• Up to 80% rebate on patent filing fees

• 50% rebate on trademark filing

• Fast-track examination of patents

• Assistance from facilitators

5. Government Tenders & Procurement

• Exemption from prior experience/turnover requirements

• Access to government e-marketplace (GeM)

• Reserved participation in specific PSU and Ministry tenders

6. Incubation & Mentorship

• Access to Startup India hubs, incubators, and mentorship networks

• Support through Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)

7. Easy Winding Up

• Startups can be wound up within 90 days under the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code (IBC)

Documents Required for Startup India Registration with DSC:

• Company PAN and incorporation certificate

• Business pitch/deck or write-up about innovation

• Director/partner details

• Website/portfolio link (if available)

• Organisation DSC for signing application