India has long been a nation of businesspeople, but until recently, starting a new company there was a difficult undertaking. The absence of government funding and tax incentives was one of the greatest problems fledgling businesses had to deal with. Yet, with the introduction of the Startup India Action Plan in 2016, the Indian government made a significant effort to support and promote entrepreneurship in the country. We will examine the tax benefits offered by the Startup India Action Plan in this blog article.
Introduction to the Startup India Action Plan :
The Government of India introduced the Startup India Action Plan in 2016 with the intention of encouraging the expansion of startups in the nation. A variety of activities are included in the plan to give entrepreneurs access to finance, mentorship, and other tools to support their development and success. The tax advantages provided to entrepreneurs are one of the main elements of the strategy.
Tax Incentives for Startups :
Income Tax Exemption:
One of the most significant tax incentives offered to startups under the Startup India Action Plan is income tax exemption. Under this scheme, eligible startups are exempted from paying income tax for the first three consecutive years of operation. To be eligible for this scheme, a startup must be incorporated after April 1, 2016, and before April 1, 2023. The turnover of the startup must not exceed Rs 25 crore in any of the three financial years.
Capital Gains Tax Exemption:
The Startup India Action Plan also provides for capital gains tax exemption for eligible startups. If a startup invests its profits in a specified fund or asset, it also can avail of this exemption. The fund or asset must be notified by the government for this purpose. The exemption is available for long-term capital gains arising from the sale of any asset, including shares of the startup.
Tax Exemption on Investments:
Another tax incentive offered to startups is a tax exemption on investments made by eligible investors. Investors who invest in eligible startups can claim a deduction of 100% of the amount invested under Section 80-IAC of the Income Tax Act. This deduction is available for investments up to Rs 50 lakh and is subject to certain conditions.
Tax Exemption on Angel Tax:
Angel tax is a tax levied on the excess share premium paid by investors in a startup. This tax has been a major concern for startups in India. The Startup India Action Plan provides for a tax exemption on angel tax for eligible startups. To be eligible for this exemption, a startup must be registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and must fulfill certain other conditions.
Tax Incentives for Incubators:
The Startup India Action Plan also provides for tax incentives for incubators. Startups receive assistance and also resources from organizations known as incubators. Under this scheme, eligible incubators are eligible for a tax deduction of 100% of their profits for the first five years of operation.
Conclusion:
The tax incentives offered under the Startup India Action Plan have been a significant boost for startups in the country. These incentives have helped to attract more investment and also have provided startups with the resources they need to grow and succeed. However, it is important to note that these incentives are subject to certain conditions and eligibility criteria. Startups must ensure that they also fulfill these criteria to avail of the benefits offered under the Startup India Action Plan. Overall, the Startup India Action Plan has been a game-changer for the Indian startup ecosystem, and its tax incentives have played a significant role in promoting entrepreneurship in the country.
FAQ:
1. What is the Startup India Action Plan?
The Government of India launched the Startup India Action Plan initiative in 2016 to promote and also support entrepreneurship in the country. It includes various measures to provide startups with access to funding, mentorship, and also other resources.
2. What are the tax incentives available under the Startup India Action Plan?
The tax incentives available under the Startup India Action Plan include income tax exemption for the first three consecutive years of operation, capital gains tax exemption, tax exemption on investments, tax exemption on angel tax, and also tax incentives for incubators.
3. Who is eligible for these tax incentives?
Eligibility for these tax incentives varies based on the specific incentive.A startup must incorporate after April 1, 2016, and before April 1, 2023, and have a turnover of less than Rs 25 crore in any of the three financial years to be eligible for income tax exemption. Startups must fulfill specific criteria to be eligible for each incentive.
4. How can a startup apply for these tax incentives?
To apply for these tax incentives, startups must first register with the Department for Promotion of Industry and also Internal Trade (DPIIT). Startups must also fulfill specific criteria and provide necessary documentation to avail of these tax incentives.
5. What benefits do these tax incentives offer to startups?
These tax incentives provide startups with financial support, enabling them to invest more resources into their business and also accelerate their growth. The tax incentives also help to attract more investment, making it easier for startups to secure funding. Overall, these incentives play a significant role in promoting entrepreneurship in India.