Delhi government seeks startup input for 2026 policy

The Delhi government held a roundtable meeting on Sunday with startup founders, investors, and industry representatives. The session sought input on implementing the Delhi Startup and Incubation Policy, 2026.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta chaired the dialogue. She stated that Delhi possesses the necessary talent, educational institutions, and technology to become India's startup capital. The government aims to create an ecosystem where ideas can become businesses, generating jobs and investment.

Funding and employment goals

Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood outlined specific targets. The government aims to support over 10,000 startups during its current tenure. This initiative is intended to create more than 400,000 employment opportunities.

Officials detailed the financial commitment. The policy envisions a government investment of about ₹407.5 crore over the next five years. This funding is meant to build the required startup ecosystem.

During the meeting, industry participants suggested structuring this fund as a "Fund of Funds." This approach would use private capital to attract larger investments into Delhi's startup scene.

Regulatory and infrastructure proposals

Participants proposed significant regulatory changes. One suggestion was to position Delhi as the country's "Deregulation Capital." Other ideas included rationalising Floor Area Ratio and circle rates.

Improving access to land and workspaces was another key topic. The creation of a permanent regulatory helpdesk for startups was also proposed. These measures are intended to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for new companies.

Focus on emerging sectors

The roundtable also focused on specific high-growth sectors. Discussions covered AI, FinTech, DeepTech, Defence and Aerospace, GovTech, LegalTech, EdTech, and MedTech.

Suggestions in these areas were detailed. They included building public AI infrastructure and creating data sandboxes. Other proposals involved increasing government procurement from startups and establishing dedicated funding for women founders.

Minister Sood confirmed that the government will use the gathered input. The goal is to ensure the policy delivers tangible outcomes for entrepreneurs and investors.

The Delhi government had already approved the policy in July. Initial implementation is proposed in state universities, government-aided colleges, and schools, among other educational institutions.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further refine the policy based on stakeholder feedback.