(a) whether there is acute shortage of infrastructure in the country and also there is a need
for large scale investment in this sector;
(b) if so, whether the Government proposes to utilize knowledge, expertise and funds from
other countries and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in this regard;
(c) if so the details thereof; and
(d) the reaction of NRIs thereto?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS & PLANNING (SHRI RAJEEV SHUKLA)
(a) : Yes, Madam. The Twelfth Five Year Plan has recognised that adequate investment in
the development of infrastructure is a pre-requisite for higher growth. The Plan, has therefore,
projected an investment of Rs. 55,74,663 crore in infrastructure during the Plan period (2012-
17) through a combination of public investment, private investment and various forms of
public-private partnerships.
(b) & (c): The Government has put in place a liberal and transparent policy for Foreign Direct
Investment (FDI), including investments from NRls, wherein most of the sectors are open to
FDI, under the automatic route. Further, at the apex level, the Prime Minister’s Global
Advisory Council of Overseas Indians (PMGAC) serves as a platform to suggest further
measures to engage NRIs in India’s development.
(d) : The NRIs and People of Indian Origin are expected to respond favourably in this regard.