A foreign investor is not permitted to invest directly in an immovable property in India. However, this restriction does not apply to non-resident Indian (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO) and a foreign company acquiring immovable property (through a branch or project office or other place of business in India) for carrying out its business activities. However, a foreign investor can invest in permitted securities of an Indian company undertaking construction and development of real estate projects (subject to certain conditions provided under foreign direct investment policy of India).
Source : PWC