The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released the holiday schedule for March 2024, outlining up to 14 days of closure for bank branches, including Sundays and second and fourth Saturdays. The information is disseminated through official channels, including the RBI website and notifications to banks and financial institutions. It is important to note that these holidays may vary from region to region.
Bank holidays fall under various categories, including the Negotiable Instruments Act, Real Time Gross Settlement Holidays, and Banks’ Closing of Accounts. While physical bank branches will be closed on these holidays, nationwide access to online banking services will remain available. Customers are advised to stay informed about these holidays to avoid any last-minute inconveniences when planning visits to the bank.
Here are some notable holidays in March:
- Losar (March 10): Celebrated on March 10th, Losar marks the Tibetan New Year with vibrant celebrations, traditional rituals, prayers, and gatherings.
- Basanta Panchami/Saraswati Puja (Shree Panchami) (March 14): Dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, music, and arts. It’s a time for students to seek blessings for academic success.
- Lui-Ngai-Ni (March 15): Celebrated by the Naga tribes of Manipur, this festival commemorates cultural heritage through colourful dances, music, and feasting.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (March 19): Honoring the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the revered warrior king and founder of the Maratha Empire. The day is marked with parades, processions, and tributes to his valour.
- State Day/Statehood Day (March 20): A day of pride and celebration for states commemorating their formation or statehood. Various cultural events, ceremonies, and flag hoisting take place.
- Nyokum (March 26): Celebrated by the Nyishi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, this festival symbolizes harmony, prosperity, and cultural unity with traditional rituals, dances, and community feasts.
In addition to these, regular Sundays and second and fourth Saturdays will observe bank closures:
- March 3 – Sunday
- March 10 – Sunday
- March 17 – Sunday
- March 24 – Sunday
- March 9 – Second Saturday
- March 23 – Fourth Saturday