A. Yes, retail investors can buy government bonds. One of the easiest ways to do so is by investing in mutual funds. However, there is an expense ratio involved with this investment that may lower an investor’s return. Apart from government securities (gilt) funds, retail investors can also buy government bonds by registering on the stock exchange for non-competitive bids. There is no third-party or broker involved here, allowing investors to submit their orders via the exchange directly. All they need is a DEMAT account to hold the bonds.