National News
Voluntary gold, silver pledges to boost MSME, agri sector lending
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a significant change that is set to boost priority sector lending to both the agriculture sector and micro-enterprises.
Banks can now voluntarily accept gold as collateral for loans up to ₹10 lakh, a move expected to simplify credit access for farmers and small business owners. This clarification regarding the classification of gold-backed loans within priority sector lending aims to encourage banks to extend more credit to these vital segments of the economy.
The directive ensures that borrowers who voluntarily pledge personal gold or silver assets retain access to collateral-free loan benefits and terms. This prevents inadvertent disqualification from favorable lending conditions due to security provision. The directive is expected to reduce rural dependence on informal moneylenders by providing formal banking alternatives with comparable speed and accessibility.
The change is expected to enhance financial inclusion. In rural India, gold remains the most liquid household asset. By allowing its use as security, banks can process loans faster, especially critical during sowing seasons or emergencies. Gold-backed loans are easier to disburse, reducing dependence on informal moneylenders and tightening repayment discipline.
In 2023, the RBI had asked banks to classify all loans that were advanced against the security of jewellery as ‘gold loans’.However, this reclassification also meant that banks would need to apply the stricter repayment norms that are applicable to gold loans, unlike loans to farmers, where some flexibility is provided for the seasonality of income. Because of the reclassification, the gold loan portfolio of public sector banks almost doubled last year.
Banks, in turn, benefit from a lower risk profile. Secured lending makes it easier to expand credit to underserved rural borrowers. The move could also help banks meet priority sector lending goals. The rules permit only physical gold and silver, such as jewellery, ornaments and coins, as collateral. Financial products like gold ETFs, mutual funds, or digital gold are excluded. This distinction aims to keep volatility in check and lending standards robust
BrandBuzz
The Pearl Edit: Thoughtful Women’s Day Gifting by GIVA
Timeless pearl creations from GIVA that honour the quiet strength, elegance, and individuality of modern women.
For generations, pearls have defined timeless elegance — an evergreen classic that transcends trends and seasons. Effortlessly refined, they carry a quiet sophistication that has remained relevant across eras.
Neither fleeting nor ornamental, pearls embody a kind of understated luxury, graceful, enduring, and always in style.
This Women’s Day, GIVA celebrates women who are building, leading, choosing, and redefining life on their own terms. Women who don’t need to be loud to be powerful, because their presence speaks for itself.
In that spirit, pearls make for a meaningful gift. Timeless yet modern, they move effortlessly from everyday moments to milestone celebrations, making them a thoughtful way to honour the women who inspire us, whether it’s a mentor, a friend, a colleague, or even yourself.
Here are some pearl pieces that make for perfect Women’s Day gifts.
Stay With Me Golden Pendant With Link Chain
For the one who wears her heart unapologetically. A radiant pearl drop pendant set in gold-plated 925 silver, designed with an elegant lattice motif that blends timeless romance with modern craftsmanship. From the Barkha Singh x GIVA Glow in Motion collection, this piece celebrates intricate CNC artistry while offering a refined statement for everyday elegance.
Gold Pearl Centred Diamond Earrings
Elegant and timeless, these 18K BIS-hallmarked gold earrings feature a delicate circular motif with a luminous pearl at the centre, accented by sparkling lab-grown diamonds below. Designed for everyday luxury, they blend classic sophistication with modern brilliance, making them a graceful statement for any occasion.
Rose Gold On Mom’s Path Bracelet
A heartfelt rose gold-plated bracelet crafted in 925 silver, featuring a charming baby shoe motif with enamel detailing, a delicate pearl accent, and a subtle “mom” engraving. Thoughtfully designed to celebrate the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child, it makes for a meaningful keepsake.
Anushka Sharma Silver Drops of Pearls Set
Inspired by the hidden beauty of ocean pearls, the Anushka Sharma Silver Drop of Pearl Set captures effortless elegance with a graceful pearl drop and sparkling zircon accents. Crafted in 925 silver, the set includes a delicate pendant and matching earrings designed to add timeless charm to any look.
Rose Gold Glam Drops Necklace
Graceful and statement-making, this rose gold-plated lariat necklace in 925 silver features a central oblong pearl with delicate cascading strands ending in luminous pearls. Elegant yet contemporary, it’s the perfect piece to elevate evening looks and special occasions with effortless glamour.
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