RBI Assigns Lead Bank Responsibility for New Hansi District in Haryana – Full Details Explained

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued an important notification regarding the formation of a new district in Haryana and the allocation of Lead Bank responsibility under the Lead Bank Scheme. This move is expected to strengthen banking coordination, financial inclusion, and credit planning at the district level.

Here’s a complete breakdown of the notification, its background, and what it means for banks and residents.

RBI Notification Details

• Notification No: RBI/2025-26/220
• Reference: FIDD.CO.LBS.BC.No.13/02.08.001/2025-26
• Date: February 16, 2026
• Issued By: Reserve Bank of India
• Department: Financial Inclusion and Development Department (FIDD)

Formation of New Hansi District in Haryana

The Government of Haryana officially created a new district named Hansi through Gazette Notification No. 682-ARIC-03-2025/7392 dated December 19, 2025.

As a result of this administrative reorganization, RBI had to assign a Lead Bank to ensure smooth banking coordination and implementation of financial inclusion programs in the newly formed district.

Lead Bank Assigned for Hansi District

The RBI has assigned Lead Bank responsibility for Hansi district to Punjab National Bank.

Additionally:

• A new district code “02V” has been allotted to Hansi.
• There is no change in the Lead Bank responsibilities of other districts in Haryana.
• The notification has been addressed to Managing Directors and Chief Executives of banks concerned under the Lead Bank Scheme.

What is the Lead Bank Scheme?

The Lead Bank Scheme (LBS) was introduced by RBI in 1969 to ensure coordinated banking development at the district level.

Under this scheme:

• Each district is assigned to a particular bank known as the Lead Bank.
• The Lead Bank coordinates with:
  • Other banks
  • State government departments
  • NABARD
  • District administration
• It prepares and monitors:
  • District Credit Plans
  • Annual Credit Plans
  • Financial inclusion initiatives
  • Priority Sector Lending targets

With Hansi becoming a new district, assigning a Lead Bank ensures structured financial development without delay.

Why This Assignment Matters

The allocation of Lead Bank responsibility is not just procedural — it has practical implications:

Better Financial Inclusion

The designated bank will drive schemes such as PMJDY, Mudra Loans, PMFBY, and other government-backed initiatives.

Improved Credit Flow

District-level credit planning ensures farmers, MSMEs, self-help groups, and entrepreneurs receive timely credit.

Stronger Banking Coordination

Regular District Level Review Committee (DLRC) meetings will now be conducted under the supervision of Punjab National Bank.

Administrative Clarity

The allotment of district code “02V” ensures accurate reporting, monitoring, and data management at the RBI level.

Impact on Residents of Hansi

For residents and businesses in Hansi district:

• Banking services will be more structured.
• Financial inclusion campaigns may increase.
• Credit outreach programs could expand.
• MSME and agricultural financing coordination will improve.

However, customers’ existing bank accounts remain unaffected. This change primarily impacts administrative coordination between banks and regulators.

What Banks Need to Do

Punjab National Bank, as the designated Lead Bank, will now:

• Conduct district banking surveys.
• Prepare the District Credit Plan.
• Monitor financial inclusion indicators.
• Coordinate with local authorities and other banks.
• Ensure implementation of priority sector targets.

The RBI’s notification assigning Lead Bank responsibility for the newly formed Hansi district marks an important administrative step in strengthening district-level banking governance. By appointing Punjab National Bank as the Lead Bank, RBI ensures seamless financial coordination, credit planning, and financial inclusion efforts in the region.

As district reorganization continues across India, such notifications play a critical role in maintaining a robust and organized banking ecosystem.

View The Official RBI Notification Here