The Union government on Wednesday liberalised and simplified the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regime in a host of sectors, including Single Brand Retail Trading (SBRT), civil aviation (aimed at facilitating Air India’s divestment), construction development, power exchanges, pharmaceuticals and audit firms. The government said the goal was to help the country attract larger FDI inflows that is expected to contribute to growth of investment, income and employment in the country.
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave its approval to permit 100 per cent FDI under automatic route for SBRT. The extant policy on SBRT allows 49 per cent FDI under automatic route, and FDI beyond 49 per cent and up to 100 per cent through Government approval route.

The Union government on Wednesday liberalised and simplified the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regime in a host of sectors, including Single Brand Retail Trading (SBRT), civil aviation (aimed at facilitating Air India’s divestment), construction development, power exchanges, pharmaceuticals and audit firms. The government said the goal was to help the country attract larger FDI inflows that is expected to contribute to growth of investment, income and employment in the country.
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave its approval to permit 100 per cent FDI under automatic route for SBRT. The extant policy on SBRT allows 49 per cent FDI under automatic route, and FDI beyond 49 per cent and up to 100 per cent through Government approval route.