Worst in economy behind us, says Godrej

PTI Updated - November 18, 2013 at 08:52 PM.

Stating that the worst in the economy is over, Godrej Industries Chairman Adi Godrej today said India’s economic growth will improve next year, and investors will reap benefits in 3—5 years.

“The worst is behind us. I think India’s GDP growth will improve in the coming year,” he said at an event here.

India’s economic growth fell to decade’s low of 5 per cent in 2012—13 fiscal. In the first three months of 2013—14, growth was four year low of 4.4 per cent.

The Finance Minister P Chidambaram had, however, said the growth will be between 5—5.5 per cent this fiscal.

The Reserve Bank of India had scaled down economic growth forecast for current fiscal to 5 per cent from the earlier projection of 5.5 per cent, citing downside risk stemming from domestic constraints.

Godrej also said this is good time to invest in India. “This is great time for FIIs. Those who invest now will reap benefit in 3—5 years,” he said.

Foreign investors have poured in over Rs 4,000 crore in the equity market so far this month amid renewed optimism about the Indian economy.

Total foreign investment in the stock market has reached Rs 92,936 crore ($16.8 billion) so far in 2013, as per the data from Securities and Exchange Board of India, the capital market regulator.

Godrej also said Indian companies have become more competitive after economic reforms initiated in 1991.

Speaking at the event, Member of Parliament N K Singh said: “Bipartisan support is needed for labour reform...There was no consensus on economic reform in 1991.Difficult measures that needs to be taken would never be popular.”

Amendments to various labour laws have been awaiting Parliamentary approval.

Published on November 18, 2013 15:22