Functions of RBI

Functions of RBI: Issuance of currency: RBI is the authority in India to issue currency notes (called bank notes) under signatures of Governor. (One rupee note called currency note is issued by the Central Govt. and signed by Finance Secretary). The stock of currency is distributed with the help of currency chests spread all over the country. Banker to Govt.: RBI transacts govt. business and manages public debt. SBI or any other bank is appointed Agent where RBI does not have office. It provides Ways and Means advances to Govt. Bankers’ bank: It keeps a part of deposits of commercial banks (as CRR) and acts as lender of last resort by providing financial assistance to banks. It provides export credit refinance, Liquidity Adjustment Facility and Marginal Standing Facility. Controller of Banks: An entity which is to conduct banking business in India has to obtain license from RBI. It acts as controller of banks by including the banks in 2nd Schedule of the Act. It issues directions, carries inspection (on-site as well as offsite) and exercises management control. Controller of credit: RBI can fix interest rates (including Bank Rate) and exercise selective credit controls. Various tools such as change in cash reserve ratio, stipulation of margin on securities, directed credit guidelines etc. are used for this purpose. It also carries sale and purchase of securities which are known as open market operations. Maintenance of external value: RBI is responsible also for maintaining external value of Indian currency as well as the internal value. Foreign exchange reserves are held by RBI and it has a wide power to regulate foreign exchange transactions under Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).