RBI Expands Retail Direct Platform to Allow SIPs in Treasury Bills

On August 6, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a major upgrade to its Retail Direct platform, allowing individual investors to invest in treasury bills (T-Bills) through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). This initiative is aimed at encouraging regular and disciplined investment in government securities (G-Secs).

Retail Direct SIP Feature Launched for Treasury Bills

Under the new upgrade, retail investors can now participate in automatic periodic investments in T-Bills, similar to mutual fund SIPs. This new functionality will streamline the process for individuals looking to make systematic contributions toward low-risk government securities. By choosing fixed intervals and amounts, investors can diversify their portfolio while enjoying the safety of sovereign backing.

Improving Accessibility to G-Secs for Retail Investors

Since its launch in 2021, the Retail Direct platform has enabled non-institutional investors to buy and sell G-Secs directly with the RBI. With the introduction of SIP features, the platform becomes more aligned with the preferences of small savers and long-term investors seeking stable and secure returns. This is expected to substantially deepen retail participation in the G-Sec market.

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Key Features and Benefits of SIP in T-Bills

The SIP investment option in T-Bills comes with the advantage of automation and consistency. Investors can now schedule investments in T-Bills of varying maturities, such as 91-day, 182-day, or 364-day bills. These instruments, backed by the central government, offer high liquidity and zero default risk, making them attractive for conservative investors who prefer reliable returns.

Policy Context and Monetary Decisions

The announcement was made during the bi-monthly monetary policy review. While the central bank introduced the SIP feature, it also kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.5% and maintained a neutral policy stance. The RBI highlighted global uncertainties as the basis for its cautious approach in this cycle.

Conclusion

The RBI’s move to allow SIPs in T-Bills via the Retail Direct platform is a strong push towards democratising access to government securities. By automating and simplifying the investment process, it aims to instil disciplined saving habits among individual investors while providing them a secure asset class.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Mutual Fund Investments are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.