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Deep Tech Start-up Definition: DPIIT Eligibility Norms

7 February 20261 min read
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGYDeep TechStart-upDefinition: DPIITEligibility Norms7 February 2026safalsetu.com

Why in the news

A DPIIT gazette notification settled what counts as a deep tech start-up, a term used widely but never defined.

Key facts

  • Built on new scientific or engineering knowledge and R&D-intensive.
  • Works amid high technical or scientific uncertainty.
  • Needs commercialisation steps for its IP.
  • Usually long gestation and heavy capital needs.

Relaxed limits

LimitOrdinaryDeep tech
Age cap10 years20 years
Turnover cap₹200 crore₹300 crore

Exam angle

  • Issued by DPIIT.

Test yourself

1. Under the DPIIT notification, up to what age can an entity qualify as a deep tech start-up?

Deep tech start-ups get a 20-year maximum age versus 10 for normal ones.

2. What is the turnover limit for a deep tech start-up under the new DPIIT definition?

The limit is ₹300 crore, versus ₹200 crore for a normal start-up.

3. Which body issued the gazette notification defining a "deep tech" start-up?

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade issued it.