**STPI-Software Technology Parks of India is now repositioning itself to be able to drive the next wave of digital transformation that is set to sweep across the country **

1. Basic Overview

• Established: 1991 (Autonomous society under Ministry of Electronics & IT - MeitY).
• Primary Goal: Promote software exports and IT/ITES industry growth.
• Key Schemes Managed:
  • Software Technology Park (STP) Scheme
  • Electronics Hardware Technology Park (EHTP) Scheme

2. Core Functions & Services

• Infrastructure: Provides plug-and-play office spaces with IT facilities.
• Regulatory Support:
  • Duty-free imports of capital/consumable goods for exporters.
  • Customs clearance facilitation & statutory compliance (FEMA, export obligations).
• Advisory Role: Guidance on tax exemptions, exports, and regulatory issues.
• Startup Ecosystem: Runs Centres of Entrepreneurship (CoEs) and Next Generation Incubation Scheme (NGIS).

4. Significance for Indian Economy

• Export Boost: Major contributor to India’s IT exports ($200+ billion industry).
• Employment: Supports ~5 million jobs in IT/ITES sector.
• Ease of Doing Business: Simplifies compliance for 10,000+ registered units.

Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

• Prelims 2020: Q. STPI works under which ministry?
  Ans: Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY)
• Mains 2019 (GS-III): "Examine the role of IT industry in India’s economic growth. What policy measures have boosted its exports?"
  (STPI is a key policy instrument here)

Note: STPI’s first tech park was launched in Bangalore (1991), catalyzing India’s IT revolution.