
Reserve Bank of India (Regional Rural Banks – Responsible Business Conduct) Amendment Directions, 2025
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the Regional Rural Banks – Responsible Business Conduct (Amendment) Directions, 2025 to strengthen and expand customer-friendly basic banking services offered by Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). The amendment updates the framework for Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) accounts, aimed at promoting affordable banking and deeper financial inclusion. Every RRB must now offer BSBD accounts with core free facilities such as unlimited deposits, ATM/debit cards without annual fees, minimum 25-leaf cheque books, internet and mobile banking, and passbooks or emailed statements at no cost. At least four free withdrawals—including transfers and ATM transactions—must be allowed monthly, with digital payments excluded from withdrawal counts. Existing BSBD holders can opt-in for new free features, and no minimum balance or initial deposit requirement is permitted. Customers may also convert existing savings accounts to BSBD accounts upon request. These directions take effect on April 1, 2026 or upon earlier adoption by the RRB.