The statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) refers to the proportion of deposits that commercial banks must maintain as liquid assets, such as government bonds and cash, as determined by the central bank. The SLR is used to control bank credit levels, ensure bank solvency, and compel banks to invest in government securities. If banks do not maintain the required SLR percentage, they are charged penalties. The SLR helps the government sell securities and supports the central bank's monetary policy objectives.