What changed
Two new districts, Pathankot and Fazilka, were created in Punjab from parts of Gurdaspur and Ferozepur districts respectively. RBI assigned lead bank responsibility for both new districts to Punjab National Bank.
What it means for you
Banks operating in these areas must now coordinate with Punjab National Bank for district-level credit planning and priority sector lending targets. The change ensures clear accountability for financial inclusion efforts in the newly formed districts.
What you must do
- Update internal records to reflect PNB as lead bank for Pathankot and Fazilka districts.
- Align branch-level credit plans with PNB's district credit plans for these areas.
- Ensure all priority sector lending data is reported under the correct district code.
- Coordinate with PNB for any district-level banking committee meetings.
Who it affects
All banks with branches in Pathankot and Fazilka districts, Punjab National Bank (as lead bank), Oriental Bank of Commerce (lead bank for Ferozepur, unchanged), Banks in Gurdaspur district (lead bank unchanged)
Why were Pathankot and Fazilka districts created?
The Government of Punjab constituted these districts via gazette notification on July 27, 2011, carving Pathankot from Gurdaspur and Fazilka from Ferozepur.
Does this change affect lead bank responsibilities for other Punjab districts?
No, only the two new districts are affected. Gurdaspur remains with PNB and Ferozepur with Oriental Bank of Commerce.