RBI proposes loan restructuring of MSMEs
The RBI has proposed a one-time loan restructuring scheme for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The loan restructuring would be a big relief for troubled small businesses hit by demonetisation in late 2016 and the implementation of goods and services tax (GST) in July 2017.
Features of the Restructuring scheme
The features of the restructuring scheme proposed by the RBI are:
- The scheme is applicable to the stressed accounts provided the total fund and non-fund based exposure to such a borrower does not surpass Rs 25 crore.
- The scheme will be applicable to the existing loans of the MSMEs that are in default but classified as ‘standard’ as on January 1, 2019, without an asset classification downgrade.
- The restructuring has to be implemented by March 31, 2020.
- A provision of 5 per cent of the total outstanding loan, in addition to the money already set aside to cover potential losses, will have to be made for such borrowers.
- Each bank or non-banking financial company (NBFC) should formulate a policy which includes a framework for viability assessment of the stressed accounts and regular monitoring of the restructured accounts.
- The loan restructuring scheme would be applicable for the borrowers who are GST-registered on the date of implementation of restructuring.
The restructuring would aid provide a stimulus to the economy since the MSME sector contributes significantly to job creation and employs around 12 crore people, the second largest after the agriculture sector.
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Month: Current Affairs - January, 2019