RBI Celebrates 90 Years of Unwavering Service to India

At the RBI@90 opening ceremony in Mumbai, Prime Minister Modi celebrated 90 years of the Reserve Bank of India. Emphasizing its historic significance, he commended RBI's unwavering commitment and professionalism in navigating both pre- and post-independence eras. He highlighted the pivotal role of RBI in India's aspiration to become a "Viksit Bharat," emphasizing the importance of rapid growth, trust, and stability. PM Modi acknowledged the challenges faced by the banking system in 2014 and credited the government's comprehensive reforms, including recognition, resolution, and recapitalization, for the turnaround.

Reserve Bank of India Marks 90 Years of Unwavering Service to the Nation

Mumbai, April 1, 2024 - In a momentous celebration befitting its transformative journey, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) commemorated its 90th anniversary today, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi gracing the grand occasion. Amidst an assemblage of dignitaries and luminaries, the Prime Minister unveiled a commemorative coin, symbolizing the institution's unwavering stewardship of the nation's financial landscape.

Addressing the august gathering, Prime Minister Modi extolled the RBI's remarkable legacy, spanning both the pre and post-independence eras. He lauded the institution for its professionalism and unwavering commitment, which have earned it global recognition and respect.

"As we embark on the next decade, the RBI's role as a catalyst for India's economic resurgence becomes paramount," Prime Minister Modi emphasized. "We must prioritize rapid growth while safeguarding trust and ensuring stability." Extending his well wishes, he expressed confidence in the RBI's ability to navigate the challenges and realize its ambitious goals.

Recalling the RBI's 80th anniversary in 2014, the Prime Minister highlighted the significant strides made in addressing the challenges faced by the banking system at that time. "Through a comprehensive strategy of recognition, resolution, and recapitalization, we have witnessed a remarkable transformation," he said.

"The once-troubled banking system is now a beacon of strength and resilience, posting record profits and driving economic growth," Prime Minister Modi continued. He credited the government's clarity of vision and decisive actions, including a massive capital infusion of 3.5 lakh crore into public sector banks and the introduction of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, for this remarkable turnaround.

"Today, gross NPAs have plummeted from 11.25 percent in 2018 to below 3 percent in September 2023," the Prime Minister reported. "The twin balance sheet problem is no longer a threat to our financial stability." He commended the RBI's invaluable contribution to this extraordinary transformation.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the RBI's impact extends far beyond the realm of finance. Its policies and initiatives have a tangible impact on the lives of ordinary citizens. He cited the extraordinary success of UPI, which now processes over 1200 crore monthly transactions, making India a global leader in digital payments.

"Over the past decade, we have witnessed a profound connection between our central bank, banking system, and the marginalized beneficiaries at the last mile," the Prime Minister noted. "Financial inclusion has been a cornerstone of our government's efforts."

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined the key priorities for the next decade. He stressed the need to embrace digital transactions while addressing the challenges of a cashless economy. Financial inclusion and empowerment must be deepened to ensure that all citizens have access to banking services.

"In a diverse nation like India, we must enhance 'ease of doing banking' and provide tailored services that cater to the unique needs of our citizens," he said. "Artificial intelligence and machine learning will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of banking."

Recognizing India's youthful demographic, Prime Minister Modi urged the RBI to play a critical role in fulfilling the aspirations of the country's youth. He highlighted the government's initiatives to open up new sectors and create opportunities for young Indians.

"MSMEs are the backbone of our manufacturing sector," the Prime Minister said. "We must continue to support them through innovative policies, such as the Credit Guarantee Scheme implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic." He urged the RBI to devise out-of-the-box solutions to ensure credit availability for aspiring entrepreneurs in emerging sectors.

Emphasizing the importance of innovation in the 21st century, the Prime Minister encouraged the RBI to prepare for cutting-edge technologies. He urged bankers and regulators to anticipate the needs of both traditional and emerging sectors, such as space and tourism.

"Ayodhya is poised to become the world's largest religious tourism center," he said, citing expert projections. "We must adapt our financial services to cater to the needs of pilgrims and businesses in this burgeoning sector."

Prime Minister Modi lauded the government's efforts to promote financial inclusion and digital payments, which have increased transparency and empowered small businesses and street vendors. "This information must be harnessed to unlock their financial potential," he stressed.

In closing, the Prime Minister emphasized the imperative of enhancing India's economic self-reliance in the years ahead. "India is becoming a global growth engine, contributing 15 percent to global GDP growth," he said. "We must strive to make the Rupee more accessible and acceptable worldwide."

"The excessive economic expansion and rising debt levels witnessed in many countries pose a threat to global stability," he warned. "I urge the RBI to study these trends and assess their implications for India's growth prospects."

The 90th anniversary of the Reserve Bank of India marks a significant milestone in the nation's financial history. As the institution enters its next decade, it is well-positioned to continue its legacy of service and innovation, ensuring a prosperous and inclusive future for all Indians.