The RBI has introduced a new half-yearly return for banks to report relief measures in natural calamity-affected areas through the Centralised Information Management System (CIMS) Portal.
New Reporting Measures for Relief in Natural Calamities
On September 2, 2026, the Reserve Bank of India issued circular RBI/2026-27/250, which introduces additional reporting functionalities for scheduled commercial banks and other financial institutions. This new requirement mandates the reporting of relief measures undertaken in areas affected by natural calamities through the Centralised Information Management System (CIMS) Portal.
The circular aims to streamline the reporting process and enhance transparency in the relief efforts extended by financial institutions during emergencies. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in managing natural disaster impacts and supporting affected communities.
Financial institutions will now be required to submit half-yearly returns detailing the relief measures initiated and their outcomes. Through this mechanism, the RBI seeks to ensure accountability among financial entities and further facilitate timely interventions in times of need.
Banks and financial service providers must proactively adapt to these requirements and ensure thorough documentation of all relevant relief activities. This regulatory change will necessitate internal adjustments to reporting systems to comply effectively with the new guidelines.
Citations
- RBI/2026-27/250 CO.FIDD.FSD.No.S544/05-10-001/2026-27