The Startup India program was announced on August 15, 2015 with the motto of "Creating Creators" to address issues like India's low ranking in ease of doing business and complex tax structure. It aims to support startups, defined as entities less than 5 years old with annual turnover under 25 crore rupees. Key reforms include a 10,000 crore fund to support startups over 5 years and establishing innovation hubs at universities. While India has potential to become a global startup leader, an inter-ministerial body must validate startups to receive benefits based on eligibility criteria like incubator support or patent registration.