“With what Deshpande Startups is doing here, I think the disadvantages of entrepreneurship are lowered because there’s a huge amount of opportunity and support for entrepreneurs in tier II cities—like Hubli. I wish all the entrepreneurs and the Deshpande Startups a lot of success moving forward.

I found the ecosystem in Hubli fascinating. I’d come here a few years ago and when I came here and saw what was happening, I was astounded. I did not expect this to be so very large, so very effective, so very impactful on people’s lives. It’s possibly the most modern, biggest, and most impactful ecosystem created by anyone in India’s history, in any district and any place. I think it’s unbelievable.

“I spent a lot of time with startups, and it was very exciting. A lot of them have actually created very good products; in fact, they are at a stage where they are going to launch the product, or they are getting into the first stages of revenue. I am very impressed at the work being done here.”

I have no doubt that this (Deshpande Startups) has played an important role in inculcating a culture of entrepreneurship, but more importantly, it has generated a spirit of inquiry in our young boys and girls, which will take this country to newer heights.