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AIRRBEA 15th National Conference: Decoding the Decadal Organizational Exercise
AIRRBEA’s 15th triennial conference in Ballari, Karnataka, marks a historic gathering, coinciding with 50 years of RRBs. The event highlights AIRRBEA’s organisational legacy and Ballari’s significance in rural banking and trade unionism.
Author: Saurav Kumar
Published: January 29, 2025
The All India Regional Rural Bank Employees Association (AIRRBEA) is set to host its 15th triennial conference in the city of Ballari, Karnataka, from February 8 to 9, 2025. As the highly anticipated event draws near, fascinating insights unfold about the decades-long practices of the largest union in India’s rural banking sector.
The event promises to be a significant gathering, with a packed schedule that includes an Inaugural Session, Women Convention, Delegate Sessions, and a Cultural Programme. Notable speakers at the conference include Justice Sri. V. Gopal Gowda, a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of India, and Sri. D. Surendran, Chief General Manager of Canara Bank’s HR Wing. The Women Convention will be graced by Dr. Shobha Rani V. J., Superintendent of Police in Ballari, who will serve as the Chief Guest. The event will be presided over by Lalngaihawmi Pachuau, Chairperson of the Women Sub-committee within AIRRBEA. This arrangement underscores the conference's dedication to fostering inclusivity and promoting the empowerment of women.
The AIRRBEA conference coincides intriguingly with the 50th anniversary of the RRBs.
Ballari: A Historic Hub for Rural Banking
Ballari, the chosen venue for the triennial conference, is not just a city rich in history and cultural heritage; it is also a significant landmark in the journey of rural banking in India. The city was home to the first gramin bank in Southern India, the Tungabhadra Gramin Bank, established in 1976. This bank has since undergone a series of amalgamations and has evolved into the Karnataka Gramin Bank, reflecting the dynamic nature of the banking sector and its growth over the decades.
The decision to host the conference in Ballari is particularly meaningful given its historical connection to the establishment of rural banking institutions. As AIRRBEA Secretary General S. Venkateshwar Reddy mentioned to Kanal, “The previous conference took place in Bengaluru in 1989, exactly 36 years prior to this event, so it was chosen as the venue. Being the strong base of trade union activities led by experienced AIRRBEA leaders it also is the headquarters for the Karnataka Gramin Bank.”
Ballari's historical and cultural significance is further highlighted by its proximity to the Hampi ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Stone Chariot.
Journey Through Time: The Evolution of AIRRBEA
The inception of AIRRBEA was marked by its first conference in Cannanore, present-day Kannur, Kerala, on March 1-2, 1980. This foundational event elected Mr. Ashis Sen as President, Dilip Kumar Mukherjee as General Secretary, and Ajit Kumar Ghosh as Treasurer.
The conference was pivotal in establishing the 'Charter of Demands,' a set of principles aimed at enhancing the welfare of employees within the RRBs. These demands included equal pay for equal work, comprehensive service rules, the creation of messenger posts, the establishment of a National Rural Bank of India (NRBI), simplified lending rules, and the waiver of collateral security for loans up to Rs. 5000.
Following this inaugural conference, AIRRBEA has maintained a tradition of holding national conferences every three years, solidifying its role as a triennial gathering. The most recent conference took place in 2021 in Guwahati, Assam. continuing the organisational practice.
Organisational Milestones and Expansion
AIRRBEA's growth and influence have been characterised by significant organisational transitions. In 2010, during the 11th Conference in Sikar, Rajasthan, two distinct wings were formed: the National Federation of RRB Officers (NFRRBO) and the National Federation of RRB Employees (NFRRBE). This strategic move positioned AIRRBEA as a coordinating body for both federations, with the AIRRBEA Secretary General serving as the ex-officio Chairman for both entities.
Building on this foundation, AIRRBEA further expanded its reach in 2018 by establishing the National Federation of Retired RRB Staff (NFRRRBS). This initiative was designed to address the unique challenges faced by retired RRB staff, ensuring that their interests and concerns are represented within the broader organization. These developments underscore AIRRBEA’s commitment to serving all segments of the RRB community, from active employees to retirees.