Overview The Department of Financial Services (DFS) , under the Ministry of Finance , launched the Startup Common Application Journey on the Jan Samarth Portal on November 12, 2025 . This initiative aims to streamline the process for startups to access credit from Public Sector Banks (PSBs). Key Objectives To provide a unified digital platform for startups seeking loans. To facilitate access to credit across all PSBs. To promote transparency and efficiency in the loan application process. To support the growth of the startup ecosystem in India. Key Developments Launch Details The application form was launched by Shri M. Nagaraju , Secretary, DFS , during the Public Sector Banks Review Meeting in New Delhi. Senior officials from DFS, the Chairman of the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA), MDs and CEOs of PSBs, and senior officials from the PSB Alliance were present. Features of the Portal Single Digital Platform: Startups can apply for loans, compare offers, and track applications through a unified digital journey. Credit Guarantee Scheme: Loans up to ₹20 crores are available under the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) , managed by NCGTC , under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. Data Integration: The platform integrates data sources such as PAN , GST , Udyam , ITRs , and Credit Bureaus for faster processing and greater transparency. Special Concessions: Special interest concessions are extended to women entrepreneurs to promote inclusivity. Collaboration The Startup Common Application journey was developed by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) in collaboration with PSB Alliance . UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS3 (Economy) , specifically concerning financial inclusion, government policies, and the promotion of entrepreneurship. It also touches upon GS2 (Government Policies) related to schemes for vulnerable sections and development of various sectors. Alignment with Viksit Bharat 2047 The launch marks a significant step towards building a collaborative, technology-driven ecosystem for India’s growing startup sector, reinforcing the government’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs in alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 . Important Facts The Jan Samarth Portal aims to provide a single platform for accessing various government schemes and credit facilities. The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) is designed to encourage lending to startups by providing credit guarantees. The integration of data sources like PAN , GST , and Udyam streamlines the loan application process. Special interest concessions for women entrepreneurs promote gender equality and inclusivity. Exam Perspective Prelims Focus on the launch date, the name of the portal, the maximum loan amount under CGSS, and the implementing agency. Understand the purpose of the Jan Samarth Portal and the CGSS scheme. Mains Analyze the impact of the initiative on promoting entrepreneurship and startup growth. Evaluate the effectiveness of the CGSS scheme in mitigating credit risk. Discuss the role of technology in streamlining the loan application process.