New Delhi: India attracted the highest ever total FDI inflow of US$ 81.72 billion during 2020-21, 10% more than the last financial year, the central government said on Monday. FDI equity inflow grew by 19% in the F.Y. 2020-21 (US$ 59.64 billion) compared to the previous year F.Y. 2019-20 (US$ 49.98 billion).

"Measures taken by the Government on the fronts of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy reforms, investment facilitation and ease of doing business have resulted in increased FDI inflows into the country," it further said in its statement.

In terms of top investor countries, 'Singapore' is at the apex with 29%, followed by the USA (23%) and Mauritius (9%) for the F.Y. 2020-21. 'Computer Software & Hardware' has emerged as the top sector during F.Y. 2020-21 with around 44% share of the total FDI Equity inflow followed by Construction (Infrastructure) Activities (13%) and Services Sector (8%) respectively.

Total FDI, including equity, re-invested earnings and capital, rose 10% to the "highest ever" of USD 81.72 billion during 2020-21 as against USD 74.39 billion in 2019-20.

"FDI equity inflow grew by 19% in 2020-21 (USD 59.64 billion), compared to 2019-20 (USD 49.98 billion)," the ministry said in a statement.

The states that received FDI in computer software and hardware include Gujarat (78%), Karnataka (9%), and Delhi (5%). Of the total FDI equity inflows, Gujarat emerged as the top recipient state during the FY 2020-21 with 37%share, followed by Maharashtra (27%) and Karnataka (13%).

It added that the inflows are an endorsement of India's status as a preferred investment destination among global investors.