What changed
RBI announced the merger of the WLA Customer Complaints Return and WLA Statistics Return into a single return. Separately, the PPI Statistics, MTSS, and ATM deployment returns will be migrated to online filing via CIMS or CISBI, with parallel reporting to be discontinued once the new system is live.
What it means for you
Banks and payment system operators will see fewer standalone returns to file, as two WLA returns are merged. The shift to CIMS/CISBI for PPI, MTSS, and ATM data means a move toward centralized, online submission, reducing paperwork and potential errors. However, until the effective date is announced, existing reporting obligations remain unchanged.
What you must do
- Review the Annex 1 and Annex 2 lists to identify which returns your institution files.
- Prepare to merge WLA Customer Complaints and WLA Statistics returns into a single submission once notified.
- Plan for migration of PPI, MTSS, and ATM deployment returns to CIMS or CISBI platforms; ensure your team has access to these systems.
- Monitor RBI notifications for the effective date of these changes and discontinue parallel reporting only after confirmation.
Who it affects
Banks filing payment system returns, White Label ATM Operators (WLAOs), Non-bank PPI issuers, Overseas Principals under MTSS
When will these changes take effect?
RBI has not yet announced the effective date for the merger and migration. It will be notified in due course, so continue with current reporting until then.
What returns are being merged?
The WLA Customer Complaints Return and the WLA Statistics Return are being merged into one. The exact name of the merged return has not been specified yet.
Do I need to stop filing any returns now?
No. Parallel reporting will be discontinued only after the effective date is notified. Until then, file all existing returns as usual.