AIRRBEA Seeks Key Reforms in RRBs Ahead of National Review, Demands Autonomy and Fair Promotions

The All India Regional Rural Bank Employees Association (AIRRBEA) has submitted important proposals to the Ministry of Finance ahead of the National Review Meeting of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) scheduled for May 6, 2025.

The meeting will evaluate the performance of RRBs during the financial year 2024-25. AIRRBEA acknowledged that RRBs delivered strong results despite facing many challenges in governance and infrastructure.

The union also shared copies of their letter with senior government officials, including the Chairman of NABARD. 

The union urged the government to recognize the growing role of RRBs after the implementation of the 'One State One RRB' policy. They believe that this new structure requires better leadership and professional autonomy to serve rural India more effectively.

Image: AIRRBEA’s letter to the Finance Ministry ahead of the National RRB Review Meet, highlighting key demands for reforms and rural banking empowerment.

Key demands included:

Chairman Status Upgrade: AIRRBEA requested that Chairmen of amalgamated RRBs should  be of at least CGM (Chief General Manager) rank. The current trend of appointing DGMs or GMs undermines the authority of the post, especially when dealing with high-level state and national bodies.

End to Sponsor Bank Deputations: The association strongly opposed the increasing number of deputed officers from sponsor banks into RRBs, warning this would demoralize in-house officers awaiting promotions.

HR and Service Policy Issues: AIRRBEA reiterated its earlier communications regarding critical HR matters such as manpower planning, revision of promotion rules, service and leave policies, and regularisation of daily wage workers. These issues remain important for ensuring fair treatment and motivation of staff.

Technology and Service Upgrades: The union stressed the need for upgrading technology in RRBs to the level of Public Sector Banks and access to all deposit platforms.

AIRRBEA reaffirmed their commitment to nation-building and improving rural banking services. They called on the Ministry to address these long-pending issues in the spirit of “Vikasit Bharat.”