Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India Since 1991

In the wake of economic liberalisation policy initiated in 1991, the Government of India has taken several measures to encourage foreign investment, both direct and portfolio, in almost all sectors of the economy. However, the emphasis has been on foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in the development of infrastructure, technological upgradation of industry and setting up of special economic zones (SEZs). Indias policy regarding foreign investment during the post-Independence period can be broadly classified into four distinct phases: (a) cautious non-discrimination in controls during the period 1948 to mid/late 1960s; (b) selective restrictions and controls from the mid/late 1960s to the end of 1970s with the promulgation of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA), 1973 and the Industrial Licensing Policy, 1973; (c) gradual and partial liberalisation in the 1980s with special incentives for investment in export-oriented units; and (d) full-fledged liberalisation regarding foreign investment along with medium-term adjustments and long-term structural reforms since 1991. Over the past few years, India has become an attractive destination for foreign investment owing, among other factors, to its large and rapidly growing consumer market, a developed commercial banking network, availability of skilled manpower and a package of fiscal incentives for foreign investors. In spite of the fact that India is strategically located with access to a vast domestic and South Asian market, its share in worlds total flow of direct investment to developing countries is relatively low. China, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, and Thailand attract greater amounts of foreign investment than India. The current world scenario calls for further liberalisation of norms for foreign investment by present and prospective foreign entrepreneurs. The present book deals with almost all aspects of FDI in India. It particularly focuses on current policies, conditions and procedures for FDI inflows into India.