Are banks open on 31 March 2026 for government transactions? Here’s what RBI says

Core Viewpoint - The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mandated that banks handling government transactions remain open on 31 March 2026 to ensure all government transactions are accounted for within the financial year 2025-26 [1][2]. Group 1: Government Banking Operations - The RBI has requested agency banks to keep branches dealing with government business open on 31 March to facilitate timely booking of receipts and payments [2][3]. - Agency banks are authorized by the RBI to conduct government-related banking work, including tax collection and government payments [4]. - Public sector banks and select private sector banks act as agency banks, with designated branches authorized to conduct government banking business [4][5]. Group 2: Customer Communication and Impact - Banks have been instructed to inform customers about the availability of banking services on 31 March to ensure smooth transactions for government departments and taxpayers [3]. - The decision to keep banks open on this date is particularly significant as it coincides with a public holiday in several regions, including Mahavir Jayanti [1][6]. Group 3: Bank Holidays - In March, there are 10 RBI-declared bank holidays, excluding Mahavir Jayanti, which can affect banking services requiring physical branch visits [6]. - The RBI's bank holiday schedule varies by region, impacting the availability of banking services [6].