Daily Current Affairs

June 10, 2026

Current Affairs

Energy Statistics India 2026

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Introduction

The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the 33rd edition of the Energy Statistics India Report 2026. The report provides comprehensive official data on India’s energy sector, covering

reserves, production, consumption, installed capacity, trade, and energy efficiency indicators.

The report is significant because it highlights India’s rapid growth in renewable energy while also underlining the continuing dependence on fossil fuels, especially coal. It serves as an important tool for evidence-based policymaking in the energy sector.

Key Highlights of Energy Statistics India 2026

  1. Growth in Energy Supply

India’s Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) increased by 2.95% during FY 2024–25, reaching

9,32,816 Kilo Tonnes of Oil Equivalent (ktoe). The increase reflects:

  • Expanding industrial activity
  • Rising urbanisation
  • Growing electricity demand
  • Economic recovery and infrastructure growth

India’s rising energy requirement highlights the need for secure, affordable, and sustainable energy sources.

Renewable Energy Expansion

  1. Massive Renewable Energy Potential

India’s renewable energy (RE) potential is estimated at nearly 47 lakh MW. The composition includes:

  • Solar Energy: ~71%
  • Wind Energy
  • Small Hydro Power

This demonstrates India’s strong geographical advantage in solar energy generation.

  1. Regional Concentration of Renewable Potential

More than 70% of renewable energy potential is concentrated in six states:

  • Rajasthan
  • Maharashtra
  • Gujarat
  • Andhra Pradesh
  • Karnataka
  • Madhya Pradesh

These states are becoming major hubs for India’s clean energy transition.

  1. Rise in Installed Renewable Capacity

Installed renewable energy capacity increased significantly from:

9f352207 a1ae 4b5f 98c4 8d1837938032  90,134 MW (2016) to

3faaafc8 11f1 4064 bf8d 195a466d65aa 2,29,346 MW (2025)

This represents a strong Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.93%.

The growth reflects government initiatives such as:

  • National Solar Mission
  • PM-KUSUM Scheme
  • Green Energy Corridor
  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes
  1. Growth in Renewable Electricity Generation

Renewable electricity generation increased from:

39305dc8 0652 47be a603 8aef9643259a  1,89,314 GWh (2015–16) to

7261a415 2876 4445 817a 57429077475a 4,16,823 GWh (2024–25)

This indicates a 9.17% CAGR over the period.

The increase shows India’s gradual transition toward cleaner electricity generation.

Energy Consumption Trends

  1. Rising Per Capita Energy Consumption

Per capita energy consumption increased to 18,096 megajoules per person. This reflects:

  • Higher standards of living
  • Industrialisation
  • Electrification of rural areas
  • Expansion of transport and infrastructure

Although rising energy consumption indicates economic development, it also raises concerns regarding sustainability and energy security.

  1. Improvement in Power Efficiency

Transmission and Distribution (T&D) losses declined from 22% to 17%. This improvement indicates:

  • Better grid management
  • Modernisation of transmission infrastructure
  • Increased efficiency in electricity delivery
  • Reduction in power theft and leakages

Efficient electricity distribution is essential for reducing energy wastage and improving financial health of DISCOMs.

Continued Dependence on Coal

  1. Coal Remains Dominant

Despite rapid renewable expansion, coal continues to remain India’s primary energy source. Coal supply increased to 5,52,315 Ktoe, highlighting continued dependence on fossil fuels. Coal remains crucial because:

  • It supports base-load power generation
  • India possesses abundant domestic coal reserves
  • Renewable energy intermittency requires backup support

However, high coal dependence creates environmental and climate-related concerns.

Increasing Energy Demand and Financial Support

  1. Growth in Final Energy Consumption

Total Final Consumption (TFC) increased by more than 30%, driven by:

  • Industrial growth
  • Urbanisation
  • Rising manufacturing activity
  • Expansion in transport and services sectors

This demonstrates India’s emergence as one of the fastest-growing energy markets globally.

  1. Rising Credit Flow to Energy Sector

Credit flow to the energy sector increased more than six times from:

7d444afc b85c 4e76 b384 d749c5ab0a98  ₹1,688 crore (2021) to

2919c0f3 cd52 4fc9 9239 1e343860af82  ₹10,325 crore (2025)

The increase reflects growing investments in:

  • Renewable energy projects
  • Transmission infrastructure
  • Green hydrogen
  • Battery storage technologies

Significance of the Report

The Energy Statistics India 2026 report is important because it:

  • Helps policymakers formulate evidence-based energy policies
  • Tracks India’s progress toward climate and renewable targets
  • Assists in energy planning and infrastructure development
  • Supports India’s commitment under the Paris Agreement
  • Provides insights into energy security and sustainability challenges

The report also reflects India’s dual challenge of balancing rapid economic growth with environmental sustainability.

About National Statistics Office (NSO)

The National Statistics Office (NSO) is India’s nodal statistical agency functioning under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

Functions of NSO

  • Collection and compilation of official statistics
  • Publication of GDP, inflation, employment, and socio-economic data
  • Conducting nationwide surveys and statistical analysis
  • Supporting evidence-based governance and policymaking

The NSO plays a vital role in ensuring reliability and credibility of India’s statistical system.

Challenges Ahead

Despite progress, India’s energy sector faces several challenges:

  • Continued dependence on coal
  • Storage and intermittency issues in renewable energy
  • Need for grid modernisation
  • High energy import dependence
  • Financing requirements for green transition
  • Balancing development with climate commitments

Addressing these challenges will require technological innovation, policy reforms, and international cooperation.

Conclusion

The Energy Statistics India 2026 report highlights India’s rapid progress in renewable energy expansion, improving power efficiency, and increasing investment in the energy sector. At the same time, it underscores the country’s continued dependence on coal and rising energy demand due to economic growth.

As India moves toward becoming a major global economy, ensuring affordable, secure, and sustainable energy will remain central to its developmental journey. The report provides an important roadmap for achieving energy security while supporting the transition toward a greener and cleaner future.

Energy Crisis Forces India to Revisit Kerosene

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Context

India has temporarily reintroduced kerosene through the Public Distribution System (PDS) for 60 days due to disruptions in LPG and LNG supplies amid global energy tensions, especially around the Strait of Hormuz. The move reflects concerns over energy security and rising fuel prices.

About Kerosene

Kerosene is a flammable hydrocarbon fuel derived during crude oil refining.

Key Features

  • Belongs to the middle distillate category of petroleum products.
  • Composed mainly of hydrocarbons in the C10–C16 range.
  • Burns in a controlled manner, making it suitable for household and industrial use.

Major Uses

  • Household cooking
  • Lighting
  • Heating
  • Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF variant)

However, kerosene combustion generates significant indoor air pollution and harmful emissions, making it less environmentally friendly than LPG or electricity.

Why has India Reintroduced Kerosene?

  1. Global Energy Disruptions

Geopolitical tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz disrupted LPG and LNG supply chains, leading to shortages and rising prices.

  1. Emergency Energy Security Measure

The government is treating kerosene as a temporary stopgap fuel to ensure uninterrupted cooking and lighting access, especially for vulnerable households.

  1. Rural and Low-Income Dependence

In many remote regions, alternative clean fuels remain inaccessible or unaffordable during supply disruptions.

Kerosene Use in India: Trends

Historical Importance

  • In 2011, nearly 43% of households used kerosene for lighting.
  • It played a major role in rural energy access before widespread electrification.

Declining Usage

The importance of kerosene has sharply declined due to:

  • Rural electrification
  • Expansion of LPG access
  • Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

Currently, less than 1% households use kerosene as their primary cooking fuel.

Falling Production and Consumption

Concerns Associated with Kerosene Revival

Environmental Concerns

  • Causes indoor air pollution
  • Emits particulate matter and greenhouse gases
  • Adversely affects respiratory health

Fiscal Concerns

Kerosene subsidies historically imposed a major burden:

  • Subsidy expenditure reached ₹11,496 crore in FY16
  • Leakages and diversion exceeded 40%

Energy Transition Concerns

Temporary revival of kerosene may slow the transition toward cleaner fuels and renewable energy sources.

Way Forward

  • Strengthen strategic LPG reserves and supply diversification.
  • Expand renewable cooking solutions such as solar and biogas.
  • Improve energy infrastructure resilience.
  • Ensure targeted and temporary kerosene support only during emergencies.
  • Accelerate universal access to affordable clean energy.

Conclusion

India’s temporary return to kerosene highlights the continuing vulnerability of energy supply chains amid global geopolitical disruptions. While kerosene may provide short-term relief, long-term energy security lies in diversified imports, resilient infrastructure, and a sustained transition toward cleaner and sustainable fuels.

Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) – Strengthening Credit Access for MSEs

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Why in News

Recently, the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) organised the Global Symposium on Credit Guarantees, highlighting its role in improving access to finance for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) and promoting inclusive economic growth.

About CGTMSE

The CGTMSE was established in the year 2000 with the primary objective of catalyzing the flow of institutional credit to Micro and Small Enterprises. It was jointly set up by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

The scheme addresses one of the most critical challenges faced by MSEs—lack of collateral, which often restricts their access to formal credit.

Funding and Structure

The corpus of CGTMSE is jointly contributed by the Government of India and SIDBI in the ratio of 4:1, reflecting strong public sector backing. The trust operates as a credit guarantee mechanism, reducing the risk for lending institutions and encouraging them to extend loans

to small businesses.

How CGTMSE Works

CGTMSE provides a credit guarantee cover of 75% to 85% of the sanctioned loan amount to eligible lending institutions. In case of default by the borrower, the trust compensates the lender up to the guaranteed portion.

This mechanism ensures:

  • Reduced risk for banks and financial institutions
  • Increased willingness to lend to first-generation entrepreneurs
  • Enhanced financial inclusion

Eligible Lending Institutions

A wide range of financial institutions are eligible under CGTMSE, including:

  • Scheduled Commercial Banks (Public, Private, and Foreign Banks)
  • Select Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
  • National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC)
  • North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFi)
  • SIDBI and selected Small Finance Banks
  • Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs)

This broad inclusion ensures deeper penetration of credit facilities across regions, especially in underserved and rural areas.

Significance of CGTMSE

  1. Promoting Financial Inclusion

By removing the need for collateral, CGTMSE enables small entrepreneurs, especially from marginalized backgrounds, to access formal credit.

  1. Boosting MSME Growth

Micro and Small Enterprises are the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to GDP, exports, and employment. The scheme supports their growth and

competitiveness.

  1. Encouraging Entrepreneurship

The availability of collateral-free loans fosters innovation and encourages new business ventures, particularly among youth and first-time entrepreneurs.

  1. Employment Generation

As MSEs expand with better access to finance, they create more jobs, contributing to inclusive development.

Challenges and Concerns

Despite its success, CGTMSE faces certain challenges:

  • Rising NPAs: Increased defaults can strain the guarantee fund.
  • Awareness Gaps: Many small entrepreneurs remain unaware of the scheme.
  • Operational Delays: Claim settlement and procedural delays can affect efficiency.
  • Risk Assessment Issues: Lending institutions may still exercise caution due to credit risks.

Recent Developments

The Global Symposium on Credit Guarantees reflects India’s intent to:

  • Share best practices globally
  • Strengthen credit guarantee frameworks
  • Enhance resilience of MSME financing

Way Forward

To improve effectiveness, the following steps are crucial:

  • Digital Integration: Streamlining processes through digital platforms
  • Awareness Campaigns: Expanding outreach to rural and semi-urban entrepreneurs
  • Improved Risk Management: Strengthening credit appraisal and monitoring
  • Faster Claim Settlement: Enhancing trust among lending institutions

Conclusion

The CGTMSE has emerged as a vital instrument in bridging the credit gap for Micro and Small Enterprises in India. By providing collateral-free credit support, it fosters entrepreneurship, promotes inclusive growth, and strengthens the MSME ecosystem. Continued reforms and efficient implementation will be key to maximizing its impact in the evolving economic landscape.

Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMI Pool): Securing India’s Seaborne Trade

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The Union Government has recently approved the creation of the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMI Pool) to protect India’s seaborne trade from global disruptions. The move comes amid rising geopolitical tensions, supply chain uncertainties, and increasing risks in

international shipping routes.

About BMI Pool

The Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool is a Centre-backed domestic maritime insurance mechanism designed to ensure uninterrupted and affordable insurance coverage for India’s shipping sector. It aims to reduce dependence on foreign insurers and enhance resilience

during global crises such as wars, sanctions, or disruptions in key maritime routes.

The scheme is supported by a sovereign guarantee of ₹12,980 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to safeguarding maritime trade and strategic economic interests.

Key Features

  • Coverage Scope:

The BMI Pool will provide insurance for Indian-flagged vessels, Indian-controlled ships, and vessels carrying cargo to or from India, including those passing through high-risk or volatile maritime zones.

  • Types of Insurance Covered:

It offers comprehensive coverage, including:

  • Hull and machinery insurance
  • Cargo insurance
  • Protection and indemnity (P&I) insurance
  • War risk insurance
  • Duration:

The scheme will operate initially for 10 years, with a provision for a 5-year extension, ensuring long-term stability.

  • Government Support:

Backed by sovereign guarantee, it ensures financial strength and credibility, especially during crises when global insurers may withdraw or increase premiums.

Need for the Scheme

India’s economy is heavily dependent on maritime trade, with nearly 90% of trade by volume

carried through sea routes. However, global shipping faces multiple risks:

  • Geopolitical conflicts affecting major shipping lanes
  • Piracy and security threats
  • Sanctions and insurance withdrawal by global players
  • Rising insurance premiums in high-risk zones

The BMI Pool addresses these vulnerabilities by creating a domestic risk-sharing mechanism.

Significance

  • Trade Security: Ensures uninterrupted movement of goods even during global disruptions.
  • Self-Reliance: Reduces dependence on foreign marine insurers, aligning with

Atmanirbhar Bharat.

  • Cost Stability: Helps stabilise insurance premiums during crises.
  • Capacity Building: Develops domestic expertise in underwriting, risk assessment, and claims management.
  • Strategic Autonomy: Strengthens India’s ability to manage maritime risks independently.

Challenges

  • Building sufficient technical expertise in marine insurance
  • Managing high-risk claims, especially war-related losses
  • Ensuring financial sustainability of the pool
  • Coordination among insurers and stakeholders

Way Forward

  • Strengthen public-private partnerships in insurance
  • Invest in risk modelling and maritime data systems
  • Align with global maritime standards and best practices
  • Gradually expand coverage and capacity

Conclusion

The Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool represents a strategic step towards securing India’s maritime trade and enhancing economic resilience. By ensuring reliable insurance coverage during uncertain times, it not only protects trade flows but also contributes to India’s long-term goal of becoming a major global maritime power.

Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF): Rising Prices and Challenges for India’s Aviation Sector

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Introduction

India’s aviation sector is facing growing pressure due to the sharp rise in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices. Major Indian airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have expressed concerns that increasing fuel costs could affect operations and financial sustainability. Since ATF constitutes one of the largest operational expenses for airlines, rising prices directly impact profitability, ticket pricing, and overall sectoral growth.

What is Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF)?

Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) is a refined petroleum product used primarily in aircraft jet engines. It is derived from crude oil and has properties similar to kerosene, but with stricter quality standards to ensure safety, efficiency, and performance at high altitudes and varying temperatures.

ATF is a critical component of the aviation industry, accounting for nearly 30–50% of airline operating expenses. Therefore, fluctuations in fuel prices significantly influence airline finances and passenger fares.

ATF Pricing in India

ATF pricing in India is market-linked, though not fully deregulated like petrol and diesel. Prices are revised periodically by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

India is considered one of the costliest aviation fuel markets globally because of high taxation and varying state-level Value Added Tax (VAT) rates.

Components of ATF Pricing

The price of ATF is determined by multiple domestic and international factors:

  1. International Crude Oil Prices
    • Global jet fuel prices depend largely on crude oil prices in international markets.
  2. Exchange Rate Fluctuations
    • Since India imports a major portion of crude oil, depreciation of the rupee against the US dollar increases fuel costs.
  3. Freight and Insurance Costs
    • Transportation and logistics charges add to the final price.
  4. Refining and Marketing Margins
    • OMCs include refining costs and profit margins.
  5. State-Level VAT
    • States impose VAT ranging from 1% to over 25%, creating significant regional price disparities.

Thus:

ATF Price=Import Parity Price+Refining Margin+Freight+Marketing Margin+State Taxes\text{ATF Price} = \text{Import Parity Price} + \text{Refining Margin} + \text{Freight} +

\text{Marketing Margin} + \text{State Taxes}ATF Price=Import Parity Price+Refining Margin+Freight+Marketing Margin+State Taxes

Major Challenges in ATF Pricing

  1. High Tax Burden

India imposes among the highest taxes on aviation fuel globally. Elevated VAT rates increase operational costs and reduce airline profitability.

  1. Exclusion from GST

ATF remains outside the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework. Consequently, airlines cannot claim input tax credit benefits, increasing the effective tax burden.

  1. Regional Price Disparities

Variation in state VAT rates creates uneven fuel pricing across airports, affecting route planning and operational efficiency.

  1. Dependence on Imported Crude

India’s heavy dependence on imported crude oil exposes ATF prices to global geopolitical tensions and exchange rate volatility.

Impact of Rising ATF Prices on Airlines

The recent increase in ATF prices has severely affected the financial health of Indian airlines.

Rising Operational Costs

Fuel is the largest expenditure for airlines. Sharp increases in ATF prices reduce profit margins, especially in a highly competitive market where airlines cannot proportionately raise ticket prices.

Risk of Operational Disruptions

Several airlines have warned that continued fuel price escalation may force:

  • Reduction in flight frequency
  • Route rationalisation
  • Capacity cuts
  • Delays in expansion plans
  • Possible service disruptions

Impact on Consumers

Higher fuel costs may eventually translate into increased airfares, affecting passenger demand and reducing affordability of air travel.

Financial Stress on Airlines

Indian airlines already operate on thin margins due to intense competition, high airport charges, and maintenance expenses. Rising ATF prices further weaken financial sustainability.

Demand for Policy Intervention

Airlines have urged the government to adopt structural reforms to reduce fuel-related burdens.

Bringing ATF Under GST

Including ATF within GST could:

  • Reduce cascading taxation
  • Provide input tax credit benefits
  • Lower operational costs
  • Create a uniform national tax structure

Reduction in State VAT

States can reduce VAT rates to improve the competitiveness of the aviation sector and encourage regional connectivity.

Temporary Relief Measures

The government may consider short-term support measures during periods of extreme fuel price volatility to ensure operational continuity.

Significance for India’s Economy

A strong aviation sector is essential for:

  • Economic growth
  • Tourism development
  • Trade and connectivity
  • Employment generation
  • Regional integration under schemes like UDAN

Persistent fuel cost pressures may slow aviation sector expansion and weaken India’s ambition of becoming a major global aviation hub.

Conclusion

The rising prices of Aviation Turbine Fuel have exposed structural weaknesses in India’s aviation fuel taxation and pricing framework. While global crude oil prices remain an external factor, domestic tax reforms and policy interventions can reduce the burden on airlines.

Bringing ATF under GST, rationalising state taxes, and improving pricing uniformity are essential steps to ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of India’s aviation sector. A balanced approach that protects both government revenue and airline viability will be crucial for supporting the future growth of civil aviation in India.

Annual Survey of Incorporated Services Sector Enterprises (ASISSE)

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Context

The National Statistical Office (NSO) has launched the Annual Survey of Incorporated Services Sector Enterprises (ASISSE), India’s first dedicated survey of the incorporated services sector.

The survey aims to build a comprehensive database for evidence-based policymaking, economic planning, and sectoral analysis.

About ASISSE

Objective

  • To generate reliable and comprehensive data on the incorporated services sector.
  • To support data-driven governance and macroeconomic analysis.

Legal Framework

  • Conducted under the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008.

Sectoral Coverage

The survey covers major service sectors such as:

  • Trade
  • Transport
  • Hospitality
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Education
  • Healthcare Enterprises Covered ASISSE includes:
  • Companies registered under the Companies Act, 1956/2013
  • Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) under the LLP Act, 2008

Significance of ASISSE

Strengthening Economic Data

  • India’s services sector contributes over 50% of GDP and is a major employment generator.
  • The survey will provide structured and reliable enterprise-level data.

Better Policymaking

  • Enables targeted policy interventions in rapidly growing service industries.
  • Helps assess productivity, employment, investment, and business performance.

Complementary Statistical Framework

ASISSE complements:

  • Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) – Manufacturing sector
  • Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE) – Informal sector Together, these surveys create a comprehensive economic database.

Transparency and Participation

  • The “Know Your Survey” initiative has been introduced to improve awareness, transparency, and participation among enterprises.

About National Statistical Office (NSO)

Formation

  • Established in 2019 under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

Components

The NSO includes:

  • Central Statistical Office (CSO)
  • National Sample Survey Office (NSSO)

Functions of CSO

  • Compilation of:
  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
  • Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
  • Consumer Price Index (CPI)
  • Annual Survey of Industries (ASI)

Functions of NSSO

  • Conducts large-scale socio-economic surveys such as:
  • Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
  • Consumer Expenditure Surveys
  • Health and social sector surveys

Challenges

  • Ensuring accurate reporting by enterprises.
  • Integrating large-scale digital data efficiently.
  • Maintaining data privacy and statistical reliability.

Way Forward

  • Improve digital survey infrastructure and awareness campaigns.
  • Strengthen statistical capacity and data verification systems.
  • Use survey findings for targeted service-sector reforms and employment generation.

11 Years of Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)

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Context

The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana has completed 11 years since its launch in April 2015. The scheme was introduced to provide collateral-free institutional credit to unfunded micro and small enterprises and strengthen financial inclusion in India.

About PM Mudra Yojana (PMMY)

PMMY is a Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Finance aimed at supporting non-corporate, non-farm micro enterprises engaged in:

  • Manufacturing
  • Trading
  • Services
  • Allied agricultural activities

The scheme is implemented through Banks, NBFCs, and Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs).

Loan Categories under PMMY

Key Features

  • Collateral-free loans up to ₹20 lakh
  • Flexible repayment period of 3–7 years
  • Moratorium period up to 6–12 months
  • Mudra Card (RuPay debit card) for working capital management
  • Digital access through JanSamarth and Udyamimitra portals

The nodal agency for PMMY is Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Ltd., a subsidiary of Small Industries Development Bank of India.

Achievements of PMMY

Financial Inclusion

  • Over 57.79 crore loans sanctioned since inception.
  • Total disbursement exceeds ₹40.07 lakh crore.

Women Empowerment

  • Women constitute 67% of beneficiaries, holding over 38 crore accounts.

Social Inclusion

  • Nearly 49% beneficiaries belong to SC, ST, and OBC communities.

Entrepreneurship Promotion

  • More than 12 crore loans provided to first-time entrepreneurs.

Formalisation of Economy

  • Around 1.5 crore borrowers formally registered as MSMEs through the Udyam portal.

Rising Credit Access

  • Average loan size increased from ₹38,000 (FY16) to ₹1.25 lakh (FY26).

Persisting Challenges

  1. Rising NPAs

The NPA rate for Mudra loans in Scheduled Commercial Banks stands at 9.81%, significantly higher than the MSME average.

  1. Dominance of Shishu Loans

Nearly 80% loans remain concentrated in the Shishu category, indicating support largely for subsistence activities rather than scalable enterprises.

  1. Documentation and Credit Barriers

Around 30% applications are rejected due to lack of documentation, credit history, or “new-to-credit” status.

  1. Regional Imbalances

States like Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh dominate credit disbursement, while northeastern states remain underrepresented.

  1. Skill and Financial Literacy Gaps

Only 25% beneficiaries receive formal skill training, while many borrowers lack understanding of repayment obligations.

Way Forward

  • Strengthen credit assessment and monitoring mechanisms.
  • Promote larger-ticket enterprise loans for business expansion.
  • Improve financial literacy and entrepreneurship training.
  • Enhance outreach in underserved regions.
  • Integrate Mudra loans with skilling and market-linkage programmes.

Conclusion

PM Mudra Yojana has emerged as a major instrument for financial inclusion, women empowerment, and grassroots entrepreneurship. However, addressing issues related to asset quality, regional disparities, and enterprise sustainability is essential to transform micro-credit into long-term economic growth.