This paper analyses the progress of the startup scenario in India from 2016 to 2025, utilizing secondary data extracted from official sources, including DPIIT, the Startup India Portal, and NASSCOM. The introduction of the Startup India initiative in 2016 led to a considerable change in policy, as it provided access to funding, tax deductions, and the lifting of some regulatory restrictions. The recognized startups' count increased from below 500 in 2016 to more than 1.59 lakh by 2025, making India the 3rd biggest startup hub in the world. Startups had a participation of over 1.66 million jobs, obtained global investment, and moved to Tier II and Tier III cities, indicating an inclusive growth. However, the funding slowdowns and regulatory barriers still haunt the startup ecosystem, which is seen as a structural transformation of the Indian economy, contributing to innovation, employment, and competitiveness.