The commerce and industry ministry is finalising a comprehensive 100-day reforms agenda to accelerate India's economic growth, with proposals ranging from further liberalisation of the FDI regime to enhanced tax incentives for startups. According to an official, the roadmap aims to ease investment inflows, support domestic industries and expand India's export base.
Liberalising FDI and Neighbouring Investments
A key proposal under consideration is easing investment rules for neighbouring countries, while continuing to encourage higher levels of foreign direct investment (FDI). India received a robust USD 50 billion in FDI during 2024-25, a 13% increase year-on-year. However, under current policy, FDI from nations sharing land borders with India-such as China, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Myanmar and Afghanistan requires mandatory government approval.
The upcoming agenda could make these processes more efficient, particularly in sectors where India seeks to build global manufacturing competitiveness.
Startups and Tax Benefits
The reforms are also expected to strengthen the startup ecosystem by expanding income tax benefits and simplifying compliance requirements. With startups playing a pivotal role in India's innovation and job creation, the government is keen to incentivise entrepreneurship and attract global venture capital flows.
Sectoral Reforms and E-commerce Push
To support traditional industries, the government may ease environmental compliance norms for the leather and footwear sector. At the same time, it plans to promote exports via e-commerce hubs, with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) working on measures to streamline cross-border shipments. The integration of lab testing and certification requirements across sectors is also part of the blueprint, aimed at reducing trade barriers and ensuring global quality compliance.
Trade Outlook and Defence Push
India's exports grew 3.07% to USD 149.2 billion during April-July 2025-26, while imports increased by 5.36% to USD 244.01 billion, leaving a trade deficit of USD 94.81 billion. Strengthening exports through policy liberalisation is seen as vital to bridging this gap.
The reforms agenda complements Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent announcement of a 10-year project to build an indigenous defence shield and reduce dependence on foreign technologies. The plan includes developing jet engines for fighter aircraft within India, reinforcing the country's resolve for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
A Roadmap to Developed Nation Status
Officials describe the 100-day reforms package as part of a broader transformation agenda designed to place India on a fast track towards developed nation status. By fostering ease of doing business, boosting FDI, enabling startups, and promoting exports, the ministry's agenda is expected to reinforce India's position as a global investment and trade hub.
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