The National Startup Awards 2021 are back to recognize the contribution of another group of startups. Indian startups whose innovations have created a positive social impact by spurring innovation while being profitable will be rewarded.

The Indian startup ecosystem, which defied the odds during the pandemic has created record 12 unicorns. According to Economic Survey 2020-21, the startups in India have the potential to act as a catalyst in the growth in the medium to long run.

Indian startup ecosystem provides an excellent platform for entrepreneurs who dare to take an off-beat path when it comes to conceiving innovative products. Launched in 2020, the National Startup Awards aim to reward the startup ecosystem enablers, who are contributing to creating job opportunities, wealth creation, and have a measurable social impact.

These awards were first launched virtually on October 6, 2020, and the winners were facilitated by Piyush Goyal, the current Railways & Commerce Minister.

In the second edition of these awards, the Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) will recognize startups, accelerators, and incubators in 49 sectors. There are also other eight special sectors.

The government is also considering promoting sectors via National Startup Awards to bolster the country`s manufacturing sector under its ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ scheme. The finalists who will receive the awards will serve as role models for the upcoming entrepreneurs who are struggling to make a name for themselves.

The award recognition will be conferred to sectors like agriculture, animal husbandry, education, fintech, and space. These categories are further divided into 49 sub-sectors. Apart from these traditional sectors, startups that are led by women and those impacting rural areas with their grit and innovation will also be recognized for their positive contribution.

One more category is also dedicated to startups that excel in content delivery in Indic languages. Fields such as detection, prevention, and monitoring of COVID 19 will also get recognition for inducing innovation.

The winner will be eligible for a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh each. A winner also is selected in each sub-sector of every category and would win a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh. DPIIT has started accepting applications for the second edition of the National Startup Awards. The last date for the application is February 10, 2021. If you want to participate, you can go to the website: https://www.startupindia.gov.in/awards