What changed
The circular updates the previous master circular (July 2, 2012) by incorporating all instructions issued up to June 30, 2013. It consolidates existing guidelines on Hindi implementation across public sector banks without introducing new policy shifts.
What it means for you
Banks must ensure compliance with the Official Languages Act, 1963 and Rules, 1976, covering bilingual operations from customer service to internal communications. Non-compliance could attract scrutiny from RBI and the Department of Official Language, impacting regulatory standing.
What you must do
- Review and update internal policies to align with all 41 sections of the master circular, including bilingual software and customer statements.
- Ensure quarterly progress reports on Hindi implementation are submitted to RBI's DBOD as per prescribed formats.
- Set up or strengthen Hindi departments/cells and fill Hindi posts as per guidelines.
- Conduct Hindi workshops and training programs for staff, including typing/stenography skills.
- Verify that all name boards, stationery, advertisements, and annual reports are bilingual.
Who it affects
All public sector banks in India, Hindi officers and departments within banks, Bank branches, especially those in Hindi-speaking regions, IT teams managing core banking solutions and bilingual software
Does this circular apply to private sector banks?
No, the circular is specifically addressed to all public sector banks. Private sector banks are not covered under this master circular.
What are the key compliance areas for customer-facing operations?
Banks must provide bilingual (Hindi and English) account statements, accept cheques signed in Hindi, display bilingual name boards, and use Hindi in customer service interactions.
How often must banks report progress on Hindi use?
Banks are required to submit quarterly progress reports to RBI's Department of Banking Operations and Development (DBOD) as per the guidelines in the circular.