Government launches API integration between Startup India and I-STEM portals

image credit- pib

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India has launched API integration between the 'Startup India' portal and the 'Indian Science, Technology and Engineering Facilities Map' (I-STEM) portal. This initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The initiative was led by Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA), Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood. It aims to strengthen the linkages between the startup ecosystem and the country's research infrastructure, enabling DPIIT-recognised startups to discover and access existing scientific and testing facilities.

Prof. Sood explained that this integration is more than just a digital interface; it is an institutional synergy that connects the needs of startups with the scientific infrastructure and technological capabilities available across the country. He emphasised that this can reduce research and development (R&D) costs, avoid duplication of expensive facilities, and ensure better utilisation of publicly funded infrastructure. 

Automatic verification of DPIIT-accredited status and seamless connectivity will streamline the process for startups and simplify the search for scientific equipment and research facilities. While this integration simplifies the process of searching for and requesting access to infrastructure, each request will be evaluated and approved by the relevant institution.

In the future, a Single Sign-On (SSO) feature will be added, allowing DPIIT-accredited startups to access and utilise I-STEM's scientific infrastructure and research facilities directly through the Startup India Portal.