Success of startups should be an inspiration

The state's recognition in the central government's start-up ranking has put those who lamented that Kerala is not a suitable state for any enterprise in amazement. National Startup Day was celebrated this Tuesday. It is a matter of happiness for all of us that the new entrepreneurs of Kerala have got the highest position in the honours announced by the Central Commerce and Startup Ministries as part of that. Kerala has been selected for the top honour based on its excellent performance in areas such as startup funding, incubation, resource development, entrepreneurial leadership, mentorship services and innovation. Today's young generation wants to apply for a visa to some foreign country as soon as they complete their studies. The recognitions that startups are receiving now show that if one has the will to work and the ability to seek investment, there is no shortage of opportunities to start their own ventures and climb the stairs of life's fortunes here as well.

The concept of start-up first emerged in the state in 2006. As with all ventures, the beginning was not bright, but things changed over the years. More and more young entrepreneurs started coming forward boldly. It is estimated that there are more than five thousand startups in the state. Along with Kerala, the states of Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are at the top. Kerala startups have received awards in previous years as well. Startups are able to take hold and grow very quickly because of the deep support cooperation of the State Startup Mission and the government. All the facilities required for young entrepreneurs are available today. The government has prepared elaborate systems for this.

Another thing to mention is that educated women are also increasingly entering the startup sector. There are now more than 100 women-only startups in the state. Most of them have already secured their own identity. Fifty incubation centres for start-ups in fourteen districts provide fresh ideas and guidance to entrepreneurs. Getting the support and help to enable seamless operation anywhere is what empowers startups.

If the mechanisms to provide the necessary encouragement and assistance to the entrepreneurs are strong, at least some of the graduates will certainly be directly involved in the development of the country right here. An uncertain future is what drives many to move abroad. The job sector needs to expand significantly if we want to keep the educated stay here. Industries should grow exponentially. An environment should be created for industrial growth. A mechanism should be created to ensure that investments are delivered without limits. A week ago, big investment meetings were organized in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Tamil Nadu received investment promises of around 7 lakh crore rupees, while Gujarat got 20 lakh crore. Kerala should also think this way.