On the sidelines of the vibrant Startup Mahakumbh 2025, Major Sunil Shetty, Executive Editor of MyStartupTV, spoke with Pritam Datta, Director of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, to discuss the ministry’s pivotal role in nurturing a startup culture among India’s youth. The conversation highlighted the ministry’s initiatives, selection processes, and ongoing support for budding entrepreneurs. The interview has been paraphrased for clarity and conciseness while preserving the accuracy and attribution of Pritam Datta’s statements, Director of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Major Sunil Shetty: How is the Ministry of Skill Development contributing to fostering a startup culture among young Indians?
Pritam Datta: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is dedicated to advancing both skill enhancement and entrepreneurial growth. We operate through two key institutions: the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development in Noida and the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship in Guwahati. These institutions focus on empowering aspiring entrepreneurs by equipping them with the tools to establish and expand their businesses. Through various government schemes, we support entrepreneurship development and promotion. At Startup Mahakumbh, we are showcasing successful startups trained under these initiatives, displaying a diverse range of products from sectors like textiles, bio-fertilizers, and agro-based industries, representing enterprises from across India.
Major Sunil Shetty: Can you explain the criteria and process for selecting startups to participate in these initiatives and how they are onboarded?
Pritam Datta: The National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) operates 22 centers nationwide. We invited nominations from all these regions and established specific criteria, including turnover, innovation, and brand development. A shortlisting committee transparently evaluated these nominations, resulting in the selection of 18 startups for Startup Mahakumbh. The process ensures fairness and aligns with our defined standards for participation.
Major Sunil Shetty: What kind of assistance does the Ministry provide to these startups?
Pritam Datta: For the 18 startups onboarded at Startup Mahakumbh, our support extends beyond the event. Our programs focus on building entrepreneurs’ capacities and capabilities to launch and grow their ventures. We facilitate market and credit linkages, offer mentoring and handholding, and connect them with venture capitalists when needed. Additionally, we help entrepreneurs access government credit schemes like MUDRA and MSME registration to secure funding. While we are currently highlighting 18 startups, the Ministry supports a broader network of entrepreneurs nationwide through various initiatives, training programs, and events from North to South and East to Northeast, aiding them in establishing and scaling their enterprises.
