We are pleased to present the March 2026 edition of Confederation of Indian Industry’s Quarterly Economics Journal, CII ARTHA [Analysis, Research, Thought Leadership & Advocacy]. The journal aims to provide sharp and cutting-edge analysis of key macroeconomic developments shaping corporate decision-making.
The Focus Story in this edition examines “Foreign Direct Investment in India: Priorities and Policy Direction”. It brings together perspectives from Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, on India’s FDI policy evolution and investment facilitation; N Venkatram, Part-time Member, SEBI and Country-chair, CDPQ India on strengthening investor confidence through regulatory and institutional frameworks, and Dr Dipesh Shah, Executive Director, IFSCA on the strategic role of GIFT City-IFSC in integrating India with global financial flows. The section also assesses recent trends in FDI flows to and from India.
A thematic article on “Strengthening India’s Economic Security: Time to Broaden the Conversation” by R Dinesh, Past President and Chairman-Economic Affairs Council, CII, outlines a comprehensive five-pillar framework to boost India’s Economic Security.
The Domestic Trends section covers key issues shaping India’s near-term outlook, including “Dealing with the West Asian Turmoil” by A K Bhattacharya, Editorial Director and Former Editor, Business Standard, which analyses the implications of regional geopolitical developments. The section also has analysis of trends in private capital expenditure, corporate sector performance, and female labour force participation.
A notable contribution is the article, “Bridging the Gap Between Trade Agreements and Trade Outcomes in India” by Sanjeev Krishan, Chairperson, PwC India which examines structural bottlenecks limiting export gains and highlights the need for stronger implementation frameworks.
In addition, sections on Global Trends and State of States analyse developments across major economies and evolving state-level fiscal dynamics respectively.
We trust this edition will provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers.