Bonds are fixed-income instruments where investors lend money to governments or companies in exchange for regular interest payments and repayment of the principal at maturity.
India’s bond universe is broad, from Treasury Bills and Government Securities to SDLs and Corporate Bonds, with tenures stretching from 91 days to 40 years.
India's bond market has expanded significantly, reaching approximately INR 255 lakh crore as of December 2025, driven by growth in G-Secs, SDLs, and Corporate Bonds.
Unlike equities, bonds prioritise capital preservation with lower default risk on high-rated issuances, backed by collateral or sovereign guarantee.
Listed bonds can also be traded before maturity in the secondary market, adding flexibility alongside periodic income for investors managing yields, prices and holding periods.