Context: A climate-resilient rural water conservation initiative in Kukas village, Jaipur district, Rajasthan, is demonstrating the impact of scientifically designed farm ponds. This model aims to capture seasonal monsoon run-off and transform farming livelihoods by ensuring year-round irrigation. Key Features of the Kukas Model: Water Security and Agricultural Benefits: Sustainability and Development Impact:
India-EFTA Trade Deal to Take Effect by September 2025
Context: India’s Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)—comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein—will come into force by September 2025, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Key Highlights: India’s Global Trade Strategy Update:
SBI Offloads ₹1,556 Crore Stressed Loan of Regen Powertech to Clean Up Books
Context: State Bank of India (SBI) is selling its ₹1,556 crore stressed loan exposure to Regen Powertech Private Ltd (RPPL), a South India-based wind turbine manufacturer, as part of efforts to clean up its balance sheet. Key Details of the Sale Why Is SBI Selling? SBI’s Broader NPA Strategy This sale is part of SBI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its balance sheet and focus on profitable lending. Source: Business Standard
Finance Ministry Pushes PSBs for Faster Loan Disbursal
Context: To enhance credit flow to India’s handloom sector, the Ministry of Finance has instructed Public Sector Banks (PSBs) to speed up the sanction and disbursement of loans to eligible weavers under the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY). This comes under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP) and aims to support both working capital and term loan needs. Key Highlights: Digital Portal for Scheme Monitoring Credit Benefits for Individual Weavers and Organisations Boost to Market Access for Weavers
Jana Small Finance Bank Applies to RBI for Universal Bank License
Context: Jana Small Finance Bank (Jana SFB) has officially applied to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for approval to transition into a universal bank, marking a major step in its growth strategy. Key Highlights: What Is Universal Banking? Universal banking is a system in which banks provide a wide variety of comprehensive financial services, including those tailored to retail, commercial, and investment services. RBI’s Licensing Guidelines Universal Banking Licences in India (2016) The Reserve Bank of India introduced the ‘On Tap’ Licensing Policy in August 2016 for private sector universal banks. This policy allows eligible applicants to seek a banking licence at any time, enhancing dynamism and competition in the Indian banking sector. Eligibility Criteria
RBI Flags High Interest Rates and Coercive Recovery in Microfinance Sector
Context: RBI Deputy Governor M. Rajeshwar Rao, speaking at a Mumbai event on 5 June 2025, raised serious concerns over the deteriorating conditions in India’s microfinance sector. His speech was uploaded to the RBI website on 10 June 2025. Key Highlights: Persistent Sectoral Issues Rising Financial Stress in FY26 Interest Rates and Margins RBI’s Recommendations BS
The Digital Rupee (e₹)
Context: The Digital Rupee (e₹) is a central bank digital currency (CBDC) issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), functioning as a digital version of cash. Unlike cryptocurrencies, it is a legal tender backed by the RBI. Key Features of e₹: How It Differs from UPI & Cryptocurrencies Current Status (2025) Anonymity & Usage The Digital Rupee aims to modernize payments, reduce cash dependency, and enhance financial inclusion in India’s digital economy.
RBI Defends Role in Subvention Scheme Scandal as Supreme Court Probes Builder-Bank Nexus
Context: The Supreme Court of India is examining a major financial scandal involving banks, real estate developers, and subvention housing schemes, after hundreds of aggrieved homebuyers alleged harassment and fraud due to misuse of sanctioned home loans. Key Highlights: Current Status:
National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)
Why in News? The Union Finance Minister recently chaired the 6th Governing Council meeting of NIIF, reviewing its performance, partnerships, and future strategies. Here’s a detailed overview of NIIF and its role in India’s infrastructure growth. What is NIIF? Key Features of NIIF 1. Public-Private Fund Structure 2. SEBI-Registered AIF 3. Professional Management 4. Strong Financial Growth 5. Global & Domestic Partnerships Governing Council of NIIF Functions of NIIF 1. Capital Mobilization 2. Investment Management 3. Strategic Partnerships 4. Policy Alignment Why NIIF Matters?
RBI Discontinues Daily VRR Auctions Amid Liquidity Surplus
Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced it will discontinue daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auctions from Wednesday, June 11, 2025, following a review of the improving liquidity conditions in the banking system. Key Highlights: Daily VRR Auctions Discontinued Reason for the Move Shift in RBI’s Monetary Stance Impact on Liquidity TET