February 24, 2016 : The Government of Chhattisgarh notified the Chhattisgarh Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Policy, 2015 on 17 February 2016 through an official notification issued from Raipur. The policy came into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette and was set to remain valid until 31 October 2019.
This policy was designed at a time when India was emerging as one of the fastest-growing start-up ecosystems in the world. With a growing GDP, a large young population and increasing digital adoption, the country was becoming a strong market for innovation-driven enterprises. Recognizing this national momentum, the state government aimed to position Chhattisgarh as an emerging hub for start-ups and entrepreneurship.
The policy begins with a clear understanding that innovation and entrepreneurship are key drivers of economic growth. It acknowledges that start-ups not only generate employment but also introduce new technologies, improve productivity and create local solutions to local problems. The government therefore decided to create a structured framework to encourage innovation at multiple levels, including schools, colleges, technical institutions and industry.
One of the major objectives of the policy was to develop a supportive ecosystem for start-ups in the state. This included promoting incubation centers, innovation hubs and entrepreneurship development programs. The state planned to encourage institutions to establish incubation facilities where young entrepreneurs could receive mentoring, infrastructure support and business guidance. By creating such centers, the government aimed to reduce the risks faced by early-stage entrepreneurs.
The policy also focused on building awareness and entrepreneurial culture. It recognized that innovation does not begin only at the stage of company formation, but much earlier. Therefore, it proposed to encourage innovation activities in educational institutions. Students were to be exposed to entrepreneurship through workshops, training programs and practical learning opportunities. The aim was to nurture confidence, creativity and problem-solving skills among youth.
Another important feature of the policy was institutional coordination. A structured administrative mechanism was proposed for implementation and monitoring. Different departments were to work together to ensure that financial support, infrastructure, skill development and regulatory facilitation were aligned. This coordinated approach was meant to avoid duplication and ensure that entrepreneurs could access government support without unnecessary delays.
The policy also recognized the importance of financial assistance. Start-ups often struggle in their initial stages due to lack of funding. To address this, the state proposed mechanisms to support innovative projects and provide necessary guidance in accessing funds. By strengthening financial linkages and offering facilitation support, the government aimed to make it easier for innovators to convert ideas into viable businesses.
Special attention was given to sectors with high growth potential. Technology-based ventures, service innovation, manufacturing improvements and local enterprise development were identified as areas where Chhattisgarh could build competitive strength. The policy intended to promote not just urban start-ups but also entrepreneurship in smaller towns and rural areas, ensuring inclusive development.
Monitoring and evaluation were also part of the framework. The government proposed a system to periodically review progress, assess outcomes and make necessary improvements. This reflected an understanding that innovation ecosystems evolve and require continuous support and adaptation.
Overall, the Chhattisgarh Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Policy, 2015 was a structured attempt to transform the state into a dynamic entrepreneurial destination. It aimed to create an enabling environment where ideas could grow into enterprises, youth could find meaningful opportunities and innovation could become a foundation for long-term economic growth.
Through this policy, the state signaled its commitment to building a future-ready economy driven by innovation, skill development and entrepreneurial ambition.
Source: Chhattisgarh Rajpatra (Extra-Ordinary) No. 57, dated 17 February 2016, Notification No. No. F 4-48/2015/56, Raipur, dated 17 February 2016.
Author: Kundan Jha, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh
