Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has stressed that mentorship will play a crucial role in shaping India’s next generation of startups, especially those emerging from smaller towns, and not just access to funding. Speaking at the India International Science Festival (IISF), he highlighted that science education in the country has become more inclusive, enabling young innovators from diverse backgrounds to pursue entrepreneurship.
Dr. Singh underlined the need for stronger mentoring support, early stage guidance, and a greater willingness to take risks in research and development to help startups succeed. He said the government’s focus has shifted to building supportive ecosystems that connect innovative ideas to markets and provide both resources and industry partnerships.
He also noted that structured platforms such as BIRAC, national missions, and sector-specific programmes link startups with funding and mentoring opportunities. Emphasising that failure is an inherent part of innovation, Dr. Singh said India must cultivate a culture that accepts risk and nurtures entrepreneurial talent early on.
The minister further pointed out initiatives aimed at identifying and supporting young talent — especially among girls — to provide them with guidance and clarity before launching ventures. Reforms such as deregulation and decriminalisation are being introduced to ease compliance burdens so startups can concentrate on innovation.
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