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PYQ Relevance Today: Assess the performance of India in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) (2008)

  India’s Performance in Attracting Foreign Investment  

  1. What happened recently?  

In the first week of December, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) pulled out ₹11,820 crore from Indian markets.

  • FPIs = investors who buy and sell stocks quickly.
  • Their money moves in and out depending on global conditions.

This shows short-term worry among foreign investors.

  2. Why did FPIs take money out?  

  • Global uncertainty (wars, inflation, interest rates).
  • Rupee becoming weaker → reduces their returns.
  • FPIs prefer “safe” countries during uncertain times.

So, this outflow reflects temporary nervousness, not a permanent dislike for India.

  3. What about FDI? (The long-term money)  

FDI = companies investing in factories, offices, projects in India.
This money doesn’t come and go quickly.

Latest data shows:

  • FDI inflows in Q2 FY26 grew by about 20% compared to last year.
  • This means big companies still trust India’s long-term growth.

  4. Why is India still attracting FDI?  

  • A huge market of 1.4 billion people.
  • Young workforce.
  • Government schemes like Make in India & PLI.
  • Digital reforms: online approvals, simpler rules.

These make India a good place for long-term investment.

  5. What are the challenges?  

Even though FDI is strong, India still faces issues:

  • Slow approvals for land and environment clearances.
  • Differences in rules between states.
  • Strong competition from countries like Vietnam and Indonesia.
  • Some infrastructure gaps (power, logistics, ports).

  6. Conclusion  

  • Short-term picture: FPI money is leaving due to global worries — this is normal and temporary.
  • Long-term picture: FDI remains strong because global companies believe India will grow fast.

  India’s challenge now:  
  Keep the economy stable and continue reforms so that more long-term foreign companies choose India.  

 

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