RBI gold reserves represent the total stock of gold held by the Reserve Bank of India as part of the country’s foreign exchange and monetary reserves. These reserves serve as a safe-haven asset, strengthening India’s financial stability, supporting the rupee, and providing insurance against global economic uncertainties.
Current Status (as of September 2025)
- Total gold reserves: 880 tonnes
- Recent addition: 0.2 tonnes added in the last week of September 2025
- Total value: Around $95 billion
- Gold purchased in H1 FY26: 0.6 tonnes (600 kg)
Context and Significance
- Rising Global Uncertainty:
- Escalating geopolitical tensions, volatile financial markets, and trade conflicts have increased demand for safe-haven assets like gold.
- Central banks worldwide, including India, have been increasing gold holdings to hedge against currency and market risks.
- India’s Monetary Strategy:
- Gold reserves complement foreign currency reserves, providing diversification and reducing dependence on the US dollar.
- Acts as a financial buffer for the Reserve Bank of India to stabilize the economy during crises.
- Trend and Policy:
- In the six months ended September 2025, RBI added 0.6 tonnes, showing a gradual accumulation strategy rather than large, sporadic purchases.
- Increasing reserves also reflect India’s long-term focus on risk-free assets amidst global market volatility.
- Global Comparison:
- India ranks among the top 10 countries in terms of gold reserves globally, underlining its commitment to secure, long-term financial stability.
