  We discuss how the higher-derivative Starobinsky model of inflation
originates from N=1 supergravity. It is known that, in the old-minimal
supergravity description written by employing a chiral compensator in the
superconformal framework, the Starobinsky model is equivalent to a no-scale
model with F-term potential. We show that the Starobinsky model can also be
originated within the so-called new-minimal supergravity, where a linear
compensator superfield is employed. In this formulation, the Starobinsky model
is equivalent to standard supergravity coupled to a massive vector multiplet
whose lowest scalar component plays the role of the inflaton and the vacuum
energy is provided by a D-term potential. We also point out that higher-order
corrections to the supergravity Lagrangian represent a threat to the
Starobinsky model as they can destroy the flatness of the inflaton potential in
its scalar field equivalent description.
