The FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) is a government body that offers a single window clearance for proposals on foreign direct investment in the country that are not allowed access through the automatic route. Consisting of Senior Secretaries drawn from different ministries with Secretary ,Economic Affairs in the chair, this high powered body discusses and examines proposals for foreign investment in the country for restricted sectors ( as laid out in the Press notes and extant foreign investment policy) on a regular basis. Currently proposals for investment beyond 600 crores require the concurrence of the CCEA (Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs). The threshold limit is likely to be raised to 1200 crore soon.

The Board thus plays an important role in the administration and implementation of the Government’s FDI policy. In circumstances where there is ambiguity or a conflict of interpretation, the FIPB has stepped in to provide solutions. Through its fast track working it has established its reputation as a body that does not unreasonably delay and is objective in its decision making. It therefore has a strong record of actively encouraging the flow of FDI into the country.

The FIPB is assisted in this task by a FIPB Secretariat. The launch of e- filing facility is an important initiative of the Secretariat to further the cause of enhanced accessibility and transparency .