‘Justice For Gramin Bankers’ Echoe on Social Media

On April 21, the hashtag #Justice4GraminBankers surged with 35,000 tweets in just two hours, flooding the platform with discussions about the challenges faced by Gramin banks. The volume of tweets underscored the depth of issues and discrepancies, as hundreds of bankers highlighted the hardships they endure.

Despite the recent signing of the 12th Bipartite Settlement (BPS), which occurred a month ago, RRBs have yet to see the benefits, including salary adjustments and updated allowances, that were promised and have already been extended to commercial banks. The social media outcry draws attention to the pressing need for equitable treatment of RRB employees.

Turnaround Performance of RRBs

Amid the flurry of tweets, the latest performance data for Gramin Banks in the fiscal year 2024 were shared on X, showcasing the results from 39 Regional Rural Banks. The data highlighted their remarkable turnaround performance.

One tweet stated, “Our Gramin Banks not only serve rural and remote areas but also make significant profits even in challenging markets. However, wage increases under the 12th Bipartite Settlement are still pending. Additionally, they are calling for the consolidation of all RRBs into a National Rural Bank of India.”

Image: Screenshot of tweets with #Justice4GraminBankers

A Myriad of Challenges

A banker highlighted a lengthy list of issues that have hampered the operations of Gramin Banks across India. The list encompassed problems with infrastructure, equipment, working conditions, and basic amenities like water, washrooms, furniture, and internet connectivity.

The tweet detailing these numerous challenges ran parallel to the ironic success of Gramin Banks in terms of profitability, cash-to-deposit (CD) ratio, and current account-savings account (CASA) performance during the fiscal year 2022-23. Despite their remarkable  financial  achievements, the Gramin Banks continue to grapple with severe operational hurdles.

Image: Screenshot of tweets with #Justice4GraminBankers

Calls to Implement Mitra Committee Guidelines

Despite strong performance amid a range of operational challenges, a banker raised concerns about the delayed implementation of the Mitra Committee's recommendations. The banker tweeted, “We need to push for recruitment following the Mitra Committee’s guidelines to boost professionalism and efficiency in RRBs.” 

This statement underscores a collective desire for structured recruitment processes, essential for maintaining and enhancing the operational efficacy of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs).

Image: Tweet to follow Mitra Committee recommendations

In 2012, the Government of India formed a committee led by Shri S.K. Mitra, Executive Director of NABARD, to review manpower planning and staffing patterns in Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). This committee, known as the Mitra Committee, aimed to address staffing and structural issues in the sector.

Recent reports indicated staff shortages at Utkal Grameen Bank, Uttarbanga Kshetriya Gramin Bank, and Baroda UP Bank, which have impacted operations. Despite these staffing issues, the banks still managed to deliver a credible performance.

Another banker voiced concern about the unjust and inconsistent promotion policies in gramin banks. These irregularities in promotion practices are a point of contention, emphasising the need for transparent and equitable career advancement within the RRB framework.

Image: Tweet on Promotion Policy in par with Sponsor Banks

On April 14, a social media campaign supporting the rights of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) gained momentum with the hashtag #JusticeWithGraminBanks, generating around 10,000 tweets. This outpouring of posts highlighted the growing discontent among RRB bankers.

Despite facing various challenges, employees, staff, and officers of gramin banks are persistently pushing for fair treatment and recognition from sponsor banks. This advocacy underscores the need for more equitable policies and practices for gramin banks, acknowledging their critical role in rural financial services.