THE UPA government’s decision to hike FDI limit in insurance and allow foreign equity participation in the pension sector is meant to placate the domestic and international finance capital. The government feels this decision will fuel foreign investors’ interest in India and help revive our faltering economy. But from the past experience, it becomes clear that this move would neither benefit the Indian economy nor bring any gains to the insuring public. Despite vehement protests by the AIIEA, a number of political parties and the democratic opinion in the country, the government appears determined to bring the necessary legislation in the coming winter session of parliament and work for its approval. The finance minister has been going round the country justifying the FDI hike, exuding confidence that the Bill will pass the test with the support of BJP, the main opposition party.