IIT Mandi report shows rising entrepreneurship among Indian students

The GUESSS India 2025 report, released by IIT Mandi in collaboration with REVA University, reveals that 22% of Indian college students have already started a business, a figure comparable to the global average. The national survey, which included 25,783 students from over 1,200 institutions across 34 states and union territories, indicates a significant shift in career preferences.

According to the findings, 43% of students intend to start a business, matching global trends. Interest in entrepreneurship immediately following graduation rose from 14% in 2023 to 16.2% in 2025. Conversely, interest in government jobs fell from 12.7% to 10.1%, and preference for large company employment declined from 31.3% to 27.4%.

The report notes that Indian student founders are often quick to act and retry; 41% of founders have closed a previous venture to start a new one, and 42% manage two or more businesses. While IT, AI, and digital sectors are common plans, only 10% of current student-run businesses are digital. The study also highlighted a gender gap, noting that while women plan to become entrepreneurs at rates similar to men, only 45% of female aspirants have started a venture compared to 53% of men.