Received a notification from my broker - (sigh of relief for options buyers?)
"Termination of Margin Lending from Sep 1, 2018
Dear Client,
Effective September 1, 2018, Interactive Brokers (India) Private Limited will no longer offer margin lending for accounts it carries. Accordingly, you will be required to maintain sufficient cash in your account to pay for all NSE stocks purchases in full. In addition, the margin required for NSE derivative positions (i.e., options and futures contracts) will have to be met with cash.
This change requires repayment of your current INR loan (if applicable) by October 1, 2018. Repayment can be made by depositing funds and/or closing the stock positions securing the loan. Please note that Interactive Brokers (India) Private Limited reserves the right to liquidate positions in your account should you fail to take these steps in a timely manner.
We appreciate your understanding of this policy decision and cooperation with loan repayment (if applicable).
Regards,
Interactive Brokers Client Services "