Section 17. Limitation on rates of interest charged by money lenders and accredited loan providers.

(1) The Government may, from time to time, by notification, specify the maximum rates of interest for any local area chargeable by money lenders and accredited loan providers and separate rates of interests may be specified in respect of secured and unsecured loans. (2) If any money lender or accredited loan provider charges or receives from a borrower interest at a rate exceeding the maximum rate fixed by the Government under sub-section (1), he shall be liable for punishment under this Act. (3) The maximum rate of interest notified by the Government under subsection (1), shall be calculated by taking into account the interest rate trends, cost of transactions, cost of the capital, the risk premium and the administrative expenses associated with such loans. (4) All money lenders and accredited loan providers shall display the rates of interest charged by them, both on secured as well as unsecured loans, in a conspicuous place in their premises.