Imagine if your Jan Dhan account suddenly worked just like a regular savings account — no hidden limits, no restrictions, and all the modern banking features at your fingertips.
Well, that’s exactly what the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has just announced.
Starting October 1, 2025, the RBI is bringing a major change that could make life easier for crores of Indians — especially those who rely on Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) or Jan Dhan accounts.
Let’s unpack what this really means and how it could change the way you bank.
What’s Changing in Jan Dhan Accounts?
The RBI’s latest move is all about fairness and inclusion.
Until now, BSBD or Jan Dhan accounts had limited services compared to regular savings accounts. That’s about to change.
From now on, these accounts will come with all the same benefits as a normal savings account — absolutely free.
This includes:
- Unlimited cash deposits
- ATM or debit card access
- A free chequebook (minimum 25 pages every year)
- Internet and mobile banking
- At least four free withdrawals per month
- No minimum balance requirement
In short, the RBI wants to make sure every citizen — from small towns to remote villages — can enjoy full banking services without worrying about extra charges.
Why This Move Matters
Here’s the thing — India already has over 566 million Jan Dhan accounts, holding deposits worth ₹2.67 trillion.
For many low-income and rural families, these accounts are their first step into formal banking.
But limited access to digital tools or transaction caps often made them feel left out.
The RBI’s reform bridges that gap — bringing digital equality to the heart of India’s banking system.
Now, a farmer in Bihar or a homemaker in Assam can enjoy the same digital convenience as someone in Delhi or Mumbai.
That’s a powerful step toward true financial inclusion.
Digital Transactions Now Fully Open
The best part?
Digital banking services like:
- UPI (Unified Payments Interface)
- NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer)
- RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement)
- IMPS (Immediate Payment Service)
- POS (Point of Sale)
…are now fully available for Jan Dhan account holders.
That means you can transfer money, make online payments, and shop using your card — just like any other savings account user.
And yes, all these will be free of cost within the RBI’s defined limits.
What About Existing Accounts?
If you already have a regular savings account and wish to switch to a BSBD or Jan Dhan account, you can now do it in just seven days.
All it takes is a simple written request or an online application.
However, there’s one key rule — you can only have one BSBD/Jan Dhan account across the entire banking system.
If you already hold a savings account with the same bank, you’ll need to close it within 30 days of opening your BSBD account.
Failing to do so? The bank will give another 30-day notice before automatically closing the savings account.
Compliance and Security
The RBI has asked all banks to fully comply with these new standards by March 31, 2026.
That means banks have less than a year to upgrade systems, ensure KYC compliance, and align BSBD accounts with the latest Master Directions.
To make customer service smoother, banks are also required to use an Internal Ombudsman system — so if you ever have a complaint, it will be resolved faster and more transparently.
A Step Toward a More Inclusive India
Think about it this way — when financial access becomes equal, opportunities grow for everyone.
With the RBI’s decision, millions of underbanked Indians will now have access to the same banking power, safety, and convenience as anyone else.
This isn’t just a policy update; it’s a quiet revolution in how India saves, spends, and connects financially.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the RBI’s new rule for Jan Dhan accounts?
The RBI has upgraded Jan Dhan (BSBD) accounts to offer the same features as regular savings accounts — including free ATM cards, online banking, and no minimum balance.
2. Can I have both a savings account and a Jan Dhan account?
No. You can only maintain one BSBD or Jan Dhan account across the banking system. If you already have a savings account with the same bank, it must be closed within 30 days.
3. When will these new features be available?
The new facilities will take effect from October 1, 2025, and banks must fully implement them by March 31, 2026.