National Startup Awards 6.0 applications open until November 20

DPIIT launched National Startup Awards 6.0 on October 27, 2026, with applications open from October 27 to November 20 through the official Startup India portal. The edition covers 20 sectoral categories and three special categories, including a new Student Innovator / Aspiring Entrepreneur Award.

According to the official release, winning startups in the 20 sectoral categories and the two startup-focused special categories are eligible for ₹25 lakh per category, subject to the award guidelines. The student award has a total ₹25 lakh prize pool across four subcategories; it is not ₹25 lakh for each student subcategory or applicant.

The other special categories recognise women-led startups and startups from the North-East. Twelve new sectoral categories are included this year. Applicants should check category-specific eligibility and award terms on the official portal; applying does not guarantee selection, funding or an award.

Source: DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry / Press Information Bureau, October 27, 2026. KROV reporting and Telugu adaptation based on the official release.