This Statement sets out various developmental and regulatory policy measures relating to (i) Liquidity and Financial Markets; (ii) Regulation; (iii) Communication; (iv) Financial Inclusion; (v) Payment Systems; and (vi) Fintech. I. Liquidity and Financial Markets 1. Reduction in Cash Reserve Ratio It has been decided to reduce the cash reserve ratio (CRR) of all banks by 50 bps in two equal tranches of 25 bps each to 4.0 per cent of net demand and time liabilities (NDTL) with effect from the fortnight beginning December 14, 2024 and December 28, 2024, respectively.

As we stand at the threshold of 2025, let me reflect upon the eventful journey of 2024. In line with the trend in the last few years, central banks were once again put to the ultimate test to stabilise their economies against continuous, colossal and complex shocks. Central banks are constantly adapting to the new global economic and financial landscape created by geopolitical conflicts, geoeconomic fragmentation, financial market volatility and continuing uncertainties, all of which are testing the resilience of the global economy. The last mile of disinflation is turning out to be prolonged and arduous, both for advanced and emerging market economies (EMEs). Maintaining macroeconomic and financial stability, and building buffers, continue to be the lodestar for the EMEs.

Monetary Policy Decisions After assessing the current and evolving macroeconomic situation, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) at its meeting today (December 6, 2024) decided to:  Keep the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 6.50 per cent.