- Key Interest Rates:
- The repo rate remains unchanged at 6.5% for the 10th consecutive time.
- RBI maintains a neutral stance, signaling flexibility based on economic conditions【9†source】【11†source】.
- Inflation and Growth:
- Inflation projection for FY25 increased from 4.5% to 4.8%, reflecting global and domestic price pressures.
- GDP growth forecast for FY25 reduced from 7.2% to 6.6%, considering weaker economic activity【10†source】【11†source】.
- Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR):
- CRR reduced by 50 basis points to 4%, unlocking ₹1.16 lakh crore for banks to enhance lending【11†source】.
- Support for Agriculture:
- Collateral-free loan limit for the agriculture sector raised from ₹1.6 lakh to ₹2 lakh per borrower【11†source】.
- Small Finance Banks (SFBs):
- SFBs allowed to offer pre-sanctioned credit lines via UPI, increasing access to funds【11†source】.
- Foreign Deposits:
- Interest rate ceiling on FCNR (B) deposits raised to encourage foreign currency deposits【11†source】.
- Public Awareness:
- RBI plans to launch podcasts to educate the public on financial matters【11†source】.
- Technology Framework:
- A new expert panel will develop guidelines for the ethical use of AI in financial services【11†source】.
These measures aim to balance inflation control, economic growth, and banking system liquidity.