GOVERNMENT’S RRB CONSOLIDATION REVIEW
Why in the News?
- The government eyes potential consolidation of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) post-evaluation against Sustainable Viability Plan (SVP) targets.
- A comprehensive year-end assessment will determine the need for consolidation, emphasizing efficiency and competitiveness.
Current Status :
- Currently, 43 RRBs operate with government support, demonstrating efficiency and enhanced credit flow after consolidation.
- Recent RBI data indicates a decline in RRBs below the regulatory minimum CRAR.
About Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
· Establishment: RRBs were formed in 1975 under the Ordinance of September 26, 1975, and the Regional Rural Banks Act, 1976. · Purpose: They serve as financial institutions ensuring sufficient credit for agriculture and rural sectors. · Hybrid Characteristics: RRBs combine cooperative familiarity with rural issues and commercial bank professionalism. · Reforms: Post-1990s reforms, a consolidation program in 2005-06 reduced RRBs from 196 to 43 by FY21. Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR): Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) is a financial metric determining a bank’s capital adequacy. It measures the proportion of a bank’s capital to its risk-weighted assets, ensuring sufficient buffer against potential losses. A Sustainable Viability Plan (SVP) : A Sustainable Viability Plan (SVP) is a strategic framework aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of businesses or projects. It incorporates environmentally and socially responsible practices to balance economic, environmental, and social considerations for lasting viability and success. |