He government is set to urge for ease in rules for classification of bank loans to a particular set of companies as a “sub-standard” asset, looking at the difficulties faced by them. These organizations are consistent in export and import or are individuals who are highly dependent on raw materials and inputs, imported from China where businesses have got scrambled owing to the coronavirus outbreak.

The move follows a petition from some industry representatives to the minister of finance Nirmala Sitharaman to not just relax the norms but also ensure access to funds to bridge over the payment issues which will arise thanks to problems in accessing inputs and important staple.

The finance ministry is predicted to take up the difficulty with the Federal Reserve Bank of India (RBI) over the subsequent few days to make sure that companies that are a part of special mention accounts (SMAs) still, get access to funds despite payment problems.

The change within Income Recognition and Asset Classification (IRAC) norms are seen to be a short-lived measure until the impact of the deadly virus recedes. a corporation is put in an SMA-0 category if the principal or loan remains unpaid for up to 30 days, while defaults of 31 to 60 days lead to an SMA-2 classification. Amounts remaining overdue for up to 90 days cause an SMA-3 categorization.

During the interaction, it had emerged that a number of the industries — like pharmaceuticals, electronics, auto parts, and solar equipment — had been impacted by a coronavirus, which has now claimed over 2,200 lives and infected on the brink of 80,000 people.

Following the FM’s consultations, the govt has already moved in to invoke the “force majeure” clause to supply relief to suppliers who are finding it tough to execute government contracts thanks to the coronavirus outbreak. Late Thursday evening, the govt instructed customs authorities to supply 24x7 clearance in the least airports, seaports and inland container depots. a number of the opposite moves are expected to be announced over the approaching days.