Reserve Bank of India’s survey of inward remittances for 2016-17 has stated that, the United Arab Emirates (UAE)is the top source of inward remittances, and Kerala has received the maximum funds sent from abroad.
UAE’s share in total remittances was 26.9%. It is followed by the United States (22.9%), Saudi Arabia (11.6%), Qatar (6.5%) and Kuwait (5.5%).
As per the survey, 82% of the total remittances received by India originated from 8 countries,
UAE, the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, the United Kingdom and Malaysia.
Kerala has the highest share with 19%, among destinations. It is followed by Maharashtra (16.7%), Karnataka (15%), Tamil Nadu (8%) and Delhi (5.9%).
Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu altogether received 58.7% of total remittances.
Responses for the survey were received from 42 major authorised dealers (ADs), that account for 98.3% of total remittances in 2016-17.
The rupee drawing arrangement (RDA) is the most popular channel of remittances. RDA accounts for 75.2% of remittances.
It is followed by SWIFT (19.5%), direct transfers (3.4%) and cheques and drafts (1.9%).
The share of Private banks in total remittances is 74.1%. Share of public sector banks is 17.3% and the remaining are foreign banks.