The government clarified that Indian companies operating in sectors where FDI is prohibited can issue bonus shares to existing foreign shareholders.
The issuance of bonus shares must comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
The clarification confirms that companies in prohibited sectors can allot bonus shares to non-resident shareholders without breaching FDI restrictions, as long as no new foreign investment is introduced.
FDI is allowed through the automatic route in most sectors, while some sensitive sectors require government approval for foreign investors.