Fri Apr 04 10:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Goyal Slams Shark Tank, Calls for More Deep-Tech Focus in Indian Startups

**NEW DELHI** – Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal launched a scathing critique of India’s startup ecosystem Thursday, specifically targeting the popular reality show *Shark Tank India* and its focus on consumer goods. Speaking at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, Goyal questioned the proliferation of startups focused on areas like food delivery and luxury ice cream, contrasting this with China’s advancements in deep tech and AI.

Goyal directly challenged *Shark Tank* judges, urging them to prioritize value-driven startups over what he described as frivolous ventures. He singled out Aman Gupta, CEO of Boat, calling for a shift in his investment strategy on the show. Goyal’s remarks specifically referenced Go Zero, a no-sugar ice cream brand featured on *Shark Tank India* and invested in by Gupta, citing concerns about its ingredients and questioning whether such ventures represent India’s true potential.

The minister’s comments sparked a heated debate. While *Shark Tank* judge Anupam Mittal acknowledged a lack of capital and ecosystem support for deep-tech startups, former judge Ashneer Grover countered that Goyal’s criticism was misplaced, urging the government to focus on economic growth before criticizing job creators. Grover pointed out that even China initially saw growth in consumer-focused sectors before moving into deep tech. The controversy highlights a growing tension between the government’s desire for technological advancement and the current entrepreneurial landscape in India.

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