India Cabinet Approves Major Economic Reforms Including 100% FDI in Insurance and Atomic Energy Liberalisation

Economic Times
Economic Times
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India's Union Cabinet approved reforms including 100% FDI in insurance, private involvement in atomic energy, a new higher education regulator, and a Free Trade Agreement with Oman.
India Cabinet Approves Major Economic Reforms Including 100% FDI in Insurance and Atomic Energy Liberalisation
A What happened
In a major policy move, India’s Union Cabinet authorized 100% foreign direct investment in the insurance sector to boost competition and attract foreign capital. It also sanctioned the establishment of a unified Higher Education Commission of India to replace existing regulatory bodies, improving oversight and accountability. Private sector participation in atomic energy was enabled to enhance energy security and technological progress. The cabinet ratified an India-Oman Free Trade Agreement to strengthen bilateral trade. Additionally, the MGNREGA scheme's minimum employment days were updated, reflecting broader socio-economic priorities. These reforms are part of India’s strategic push to modernize its economy and regulatory frameworks.

Key insights

  • 1

    Full FDI in Insurance: Permitting 100% foreign investment is expected to increase capital inflow and competition in India’s insurance industry.

  • 2

    Higher Education Reform: The proposed Higher Education Commission aims to consolidate multiple regulatory bodies to improve governance and quality.

  • 3

    Atomic Energy Liberalisation: Opening the atomic energy sector to private players could enhance India’s energy security and foster innovation.

  • 4

    India-Oman Free Trade Agreement: The FTA is set to deepen economic ties and expand trade and investment opportunities between India and Oman.

  • 5

    MGNREGA Employment Revision: Increasing guaranteed employment days to 125 with revised wages aims to support rural livelihoods and economic stability.

Takeaways

The Union Cabinet’s approved reforms signify a strategic effort to enhance India’s economic framework through increased foreign investment, regulatory consolidation, and expanded trade and energy sector participation, positioning the country for accelerated growth.

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