Report proposes 'India-Plus Contribution Scorecard' to boost FDI

New Delhi, India Jul 7, 2026 ALN: New Delhi: The country should adopt an 'India-Plus Contribution Scorecard' to promote foreign direct investment (FDI) by rating investors on measurable contributions such as productivity, exports, and technology transfer, while maintaining stringent national security safeguards, a report has suggested.

With the Indian crossing USD 4 trillion, the country must develop the institutional capacity to pursue rooted, contribution-generating investment, according to the report prepared by VeK Research and Pahle India Foundation. This recommendation comes at a time when India is striving to enhance its global standing as a favorable investment destination, especially in light of rising competition from other emerging markets.

The proposed 'India-Plus Contribution Scorecard' is a transparent framework that evaluates every investor, foreign or domestic, against measurable outcomes such as productivity, exports, jobs, supplier integration, and technology transfer. This scorecard is designed to provide a clear and quantifiable method for assessing the potential impact of investments, moving beyond traditional metrics that often focus solely on capital inflow.

Companies securing above 70 on the scoreboard can be granted a 90-day single-window clearance covering land acquisition, environmental approvals, building permissions, and utility connections. This streamlined process aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles that often deter foreign investors. The report emphasizes that every approval and delay should be logged and audited to ensure accountability in the national rollout, fostering a transparent environment that encourages investor confidence.

All foreign investments, under the proposed framework, will continue to be subject to national security screening. The report states,

"It is imperative to move away from country-of-origin filters since some of India's deepest, most productive foreign partners in autos, solar, electronics, and mobile telephony come from jurisdictions with which we have complicated political relationships."

This perspective reflects a growing recognition that partnerships should not be overly influenced by geopolitical tensions. By focusing on the actual contributions of foreign investors rather than their home countries, India aims to attract a broader range of investments that can drive growth.

The scorecard is particularly applicable to sectors where contributions can be measured within a reasonable operating horizon, including manufacturing, semiconductors, electronics, digital infrastructure, services, and consumer industries. These sectors are crucial for India's aspirations, as they not only promise high returns on investment but also align with the government's initiatives such as 'Make in India' and 'Digital India.'

Additionally, the report recommends establishing a National Value Index Dashboard, which would allow enterprises in the top quartile of their sector to gain automatic eligibility for enhanced policy support. This dashboard would serve as a live indicator of industry performance, enabling the government to identify and support high-performing sectors and companies that contribute significantly to the .

Pahle India Foundation Chairman Rajiv Kumar emphasized the importance of focusing on gross foreign direct investment, stating that it creates productive capacity, generates employment, and strengthens the overall framework. By encouraging FDI that aligns with national priorities, India can ensure sustainable growth that benefits a broad spectrum of its population.

Nivruti Rai, CEO of Invest India, remarked,

"The future of investment policy lies at the intersection of diplomacy, technology, and national security. Investment decisions can no longer be viewed through an isolated lens alone."

This statement underscores the complex interplay between various factors that influence investment decisions today. As global dynamics shift, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries are re-evaluating their investment strategies to align with broader geopolitical and realities.

The innovative approach proposed in the report aims to attract investment that is not only rooted in the Indian but also contributes significantly to its growth and development. By creating a framework that emphasizes accountability and measurable contributions, India is positioning itself as a forward-thinking destination for foreign investment.

In a global context, FDI is often seen as a critical driver of growth, especially in developing countries. It can bring in capital, technology, and expertise that are essential for advancing local industries. However, attracting FDI requires a conducive environment that assures investors of the stability and reliability of their investments. This report's recommendations could potentially enhance India's attractiveness as an investment destination by providing clarity and reducing uncertainties associated with the investment process.

The implications of adopting the 'India-Plus Contribution Scorecard' could be significant. If successfully implemented, it could lead to a more diversified and resilient , reducing dependency on any single sector or source of investment. Moreover, by prioritizing investments that contribute to national goals, India could foster a more inclusive growth model that benefits various segments of society.

Furthermore, as India continues to integrate into the global , the need for a robust framework to evaluate and incentivize foreign investments becomes increasingly important. The proposed scorecard could serve as a benchmark for other nations looking to reform their investment policies, promoting a shift towards a more contribution-focused approach to FDI.

In conclusion, the 'India-Plus Contribution Scorecard' represents a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing India's FDI landscape. By focusing on measurable contributions and maintaining national security safeguards, the framework seeks to create a balanced approach that benefits both investors and the Indian . As the global investment landscape evolves, such innovative measures could play a pivotal role in positioning India as a leading destination for foreign investments in the years to come.