What changed
The circular updates the previous master circular (July 1, 2010) by incorporating all instructions issued up to June 30, 2011. It consolidates existing guidelines without introducing new requirements.
What it means for you
Public sector banks must maintain compliance with the Official Languages Act and Rules, covering bilingual operations, customer-facing documents, and internal communications. RBI continues to monitor progress through DBOD. Banks should ensure their Hindi implementation committees and cells are active and reporting quarterly.
What you must do
- Review and update your bank's Hindi implementation policy to align with the consolidated master circular.
- Ensure all customer-facing documents, forms, and stationery are bilingual (Hindi and English).
- Submit quarterly progress reports on Hindi use to RBI as per existing requirements.
- Verify that computer systems and core banking solutions support bilingual data processing.
- Conduct Hindi workshops and training programs for staff as outlined in the circular.
Who it affects
All public sector banks in India, Hindi departments/cells/sections in banks, Bank staff handling customer correspondence and documentation, IT teams managing bilingual software and core banking systems
Does this circular introduce any new requirements for Hindi use?
No, it only consolidates existing instructions issued up to June 30, 2011. Banks should continue following the same guidelines as before.
Which banks are covered under this master circular?
All public sector banks are required to comply. Private and foreign banks are not directly covered, but they may adopt similar practices voluntarily.
What are the key areas of focus for Hindi implementation?
Key areas include bilingual correspondence, acceptance of cheques in Hindi, bilingual annual reports, stationery, name boards, internal circulars, and customer service in Hindi.