India Attracts $51 Billion FDI as Startup and Manufacturing Push

India’s growth story continues to draw strong global attention. In the last six months, the country has attracted $51 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), underlining investor confidence in its economy. This surge is closely linked to the government’s sustained push towards startups, innovation, and manufacturing, which are increasingly reshaping India’s economic and industrial landscape.

Why in News?

India has received $51 billion in FDI over the past six months, according to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, highlighting strong global confidence amid a major push for startups and manufacturing.

FDI Inflows and Global Confidence

• The strong inflow of $51 billion in FDI reflects sustained international confidence in India’s long-term economic potential.
• According to DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia, investors are responding positively to India’s stable macroeconomic environment, policy reforms, and expanding domestic market.
• Manufacturing, in particular, is gaining momentum due to innovation-led production and rising investments.
• These inflows support job creation, technology transfer, and industrial capacity expansion, reinforcing India’s position as a preferred global investment destination.

Startup Push and National Startup Day 2026

• As part of its startup-focused strategy, the government will host National Startup Day on January 16, 2026.
• During the event, 75 Grand Challenges will be launched to promote innovation and problem-solving across sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and services.
• The response has been overwhelming, with over 3,000 participation requests already received.
• To recognise entrepreneurial excellence, 20 National Startup Awards will also be presented, celebrating startups that have made outstanding contributions to India’s innovation ecosystem.

Manufacturing Driven by Innovation and Startups

• Manufacturing in India is witnessing renewed strength, supported by close collaboration between corporates and startups.
• Innovation-driven production has led to the development of new products and processes, attracting significant domestic and foreign investments.
• Large companies are increasingly partnering with startups to scale ideas, improve efficiency, and adopt new technologies.
• This synergy is strengthening India’s manufacturing base and aligning with the broader goal of making India a global manufacturing hub.

Role of Digital India and Youth Participation

• India’s startup and FDI momentum is also linked to the success of Digital India.
• Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, Narendra Modi highlighted how Digital India, startup growth, and youth participation are collectively transforming the economy.
• He noted the rapid expansion of creative and technology-driven sectors, led by young innovators.
• The Prime Minister also referred to the rise of the ‘Orange Economy’, encompassing culture, content, creativity, and digital platforms.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. India attracted approximately how much FDI in the last six months, as per DPIIT?

A. $35 billion
B. $42 billion
C. $51 billion
D. $60 billion