New Delhi: Gold imports fell sharply in December 2014 to USD 1.34 billion -- less than one-fourth of USD 5.61 billion in the previous month -- notwithstanding the easing of import curbs for the precious metal.
However, gold imports were still higher on a year-on-year basis by 7.4 percent from USD 1.25 billion in December 2013.
Gold imports were on an upward trend since August when the inbound shipments rose to USD 2.03 billion from 1.81 billion in July. In September, it was USD 3.75 billion, while in October imports rose to USD 4.17 billion.
India is the largest importer of gold, which is mainly utilised to meet the demand of the jewellery industry.
In November 2014, the RBI had easing restrictions on gold imports by scrapping the controversial 80:20 scheme.
Under the 80:20 norm, put in place in August 2013 to curb high gold inflows that was widening the current account deficit, at least 20 percent of the imported gold had to be mandatorily exported before bringing in new lots.
Earlier in May 2014, the 80:20 norms were relaxed and six private sector trading firms were permitted to import the gold under the scheme. Initially, only state-owned firms and banks were permitted to import.
The six private firms, which were given relaxation, accounted for 40 percent of the total gold imports during April-September, sources said.
Government has been repeatedly asking people to desist from buying gold and instead invest in other saving instruments.
Higher gold import bill adversely affects the country's current account deficit (CAD).
