Name Change after Marriage? RBI’s KYC Relaxation under PML Rules Explained
Background: PML Rules and Name Change The Prevention of Money-laundering (Maintenance of Records) Rules, 2005 define what constitutes an officially valid document (OVD) for KYC purposes. To ease difficulties faced by individuals whose names change after marriage or otherwise, the Government notified the Prevention of Money-laundering (Maintenance of Records) Third Amendment Rules, 2015 (G.S.R. 730(E)…
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Why RBI Mandates Compulsory Leave for Staff in Sensitive Banking Positions
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), on July 8, 2021, issued updated instructions directing banks to implement a robust ‘Mandatory Leave’ policy for employees posted in sensitive positions or critical areas of operation. These revised guidelines replace (and repeal) the earlier RBI circular DBR.No.BP.BC.88/21.04.048/2014-15 dated April 23, 2015, reflecting the regulator’s renewed focus on operational…
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Special & Extraordinary Leave in Banks: Quick Guide for Staff (FAQs)
Banks provide for certain categories of special and extraordinary leave to employees, in addition to regular leave entitlements, to support social welfare initiatives, sporting activities, and personal exigencies. The key provisions are outlined below. This FAQ explains the special and extraordinary leave facilities available to bank employees, beyond regular leave entitlements. — 1. Who can…
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Trend and Progress of Banking in India 2024-25: Key Highlights
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released its annual publication, the Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India 2024-25, under Section 36(2) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. This flagship report provides an extensive overview of the performance and resilience of India’s banking and financial system—covering scheduled commercial banks (SCBs), co-operative banks,…
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Interest Rates on Small Savings Schemes from January 2026 to March 2026
The government on Wednesday December 31, 2025, announced that the interest rates on small savings schemes, including PPF, SSY, NSC, and post office deposits, will remain unchanged for the Fourth Quarter of FY 2025-26 (from January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2026), according to a Finance ministry notification. Interest Rate Chart: Scheme Interest Rate (January-March…
RBI’s KYC Reset 2025: What the New Directions Mean for Banks, Payments and Customers
Key Takeaways for Banks and Customers The Reserve Bank of India (Commercial Banks – Know Your Customer) Directions, 2025 represent a comprehensive reset of the KYC framework for commercial banks. Replacing the long-standing 2016 KYC Master Direction, the new Directions harmonise KYC references across the banking and payment ecosystem while strengthening customer due diligence, accountability,…
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