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3 September 2026

RBI forex swap facility

The RBI forex swap facility is a specific monetary policy tool used for macroeconomic stability and liquidity management, which directly relates to the UPSC GS3 syllabus on Indian economy and resource mobilization.

1 min read 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • RBI introduced a special USD-INR forex swap facility on June 8 to mitigate forex outflows caused by high oil prices and FPI exits.
  • Total inflows under the facility reached $136.377 billion, exceeding projections.
  • Breakdown of inflows: $127.226 billion (FCNR(B) deposits), $5.26 billion (OFCBs), and $3.891 billion (ECBs).
  • RBI holds $137 billion in outstanding short forward dollar positions, which are derivative contracts to sell dollars at a future date at a predetermined rate.
  • The swap facility allows the RBI to defend the rupee without immediate depletion of spot forex reserves.
  • RBI may use the forex reserves generated from the FCNR(B) scheme to settle its short forward positions.
  • The central bank is absorbing excess rupee liquidity (currently ₹6.5 lakh crore) to maintain call rates near the policy rate and control inflation.
  • Banks may use the liquidity to strengthen asset-side books and support long-term credit growth.

Questions

  1. Explain the mechanism of the RBI's USD-INR forex swap facility and discuss how it serves as a tool for managing currency volatility and rupee liquidity. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Examine the role of the Reserve Bank of India in managing foreign exchange reserves and maintaining monetary stability in the face of global economic headwinds and capital flight. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. What is the primary purpose of the RBI's 'short forward dollar' positions?

  2. Which of the following instruments were covered under the RBI's special USD-INR forex swap facility introduced on June 8?