Why Indians Lag in Original Startups: Cultural Barriers and Innovative Thinking

India's startup ecosystem has seen significant growth in recent years, with numerous successful companies such as Dunzo and UrbanClap catering to the local market as well as expatriates. While these startups have provided tangible benefits to people's lives, there is a persistent debate about the prevalence of copied concepts and the lack of originality in our entrepreneurial landscape. This article explores the reasons behind this state of affairs and proposes solutions for nurturing a culture of innovation in India.

The Safe Game Mentality

One of the primary reasons for the lack of originality in Indian startups is the prevalent safe game mentality. The Indian society tends to prioritize security over adventure, leading to a preference for established ideas rather than taking risks. Young entrepreneurs often face discouragement from family and society if they decide to venture into untested waters. This, in turn, stifles creativity and innovation.

Social and cultural factors play a significant role in suppressing thoughts that deviate from the norm. For instance, a young adult taking up an unconventional venture may face opposition from family, society, or even the legal system. The fear of criticism and the desire to avoid offending anyone can lead to self-censorship, thereby impeding original thinking.

Beyond Science and Commerce: The Broader Impact

The issue of lack of originality is not confined to the startup and business sectors alone; it extends to other domains as well. Indian literature, for instance, has not produced a globally recognized masterpiece since the 19th century. Similarly, in the field of science, India has seen a continuous lag in pioneering research and breakthroughs. This trend is alarming as it reflects a deeper cultural and societal issue that needs immediate attention.

Another significant factor that contributes to this stagnation is the influence of established power structures. The two major political parties, the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), often view new ideas with suspicion. This mindset, prevalent within these parties, can be attributed to a fear of questioning the status quo and the fear of losing control over established interests.

Encouraging Innovation: A Way Forward

To foster a culture of innovation in India, it is crucial to create an environment that encourages young minds to think freely and take risks. This can be achieved by:

Educational reforms that promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills Creating safe spaces for debate and discussion, free from fear of retribution Supporting and incentivizing young entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas Dismantling the fear-based mindset through awareness campaigns and policy changes

Understanding the nuances of freedom of thought is essential for a nation to evolve. By addressing the underlying cultural barriers and fostering a mindset that values originality, India can emerge as a global leader in innovation.

Conclusion: The journey towards a more innovative India is a long and ongoing one, but with the right policies, education, and cultural shifts, we can nurture a generation of thinkers and doers who can contribute meaningfully to the world. The time is now to think freely, without fear, and contribute to the world's progress.