The Reserve Bank of India has told all cooperative banks to start sending their internet and mobile banking reports through a new central system. This rule kicks in from August 2025 and aims to make tracking easier for the central bank.
This change affects urban cooperative banks, state cooperative banks, and district central cooperative banks. They must use the Centralised Information Management System, or CIMS, for monthly reports on internet banking (known as R065) and mobile banking (R102). The goal is to boost data accuracy and help the RBI spot issues faster in India’s growing digital banking world.
Details of the New RBI Rule
Cooperative banks now have to switch from old ways of reporting to the CIMS online portal. This portal lets them log in and submit data safely.
The RBI made this announcement on September 8, 2025, as part of efforts to unify how banks share info. It builds on similar rules for other banks like commercial ones and small finance banks. Experts say this will cut down on errors and speed up reviews.
Banks must file these returns every month. For example, data from August 2025 goes in by September 7, 2025. Missing deadlines could lead to fines under banking laws.
This fits into bigger trends, like the RBI’s push for better tech in finance. Just last year, the bank rolled out rules for digital lending apps, showing a focus on safe online services.
Key Returns and Filing Deadlines
The two main reports are R065 for internet banking and R102 for mobile banking. These track things like user numbers, transaction volumes, and security issues.
Here is a simple table showing what banks need to know:
| Return Type | What It Covers | Filing Frequency | Deadline Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| R065 (Internet Banking) | Online account access, transfers, and payments | Monthly | By 7th of next month (e.g., September 7 for August data) |
| R102 (Mobile Banking) | App-based services, alerts, and mobile payments | Monthly | By 7th of next month (e.g., October 7 for September data) |
This setup ensures all banks follow the same schedule. The RBI wants this to help spot risks early, like fraud in digital payments, which rose 20 percent in 2024 reports.
Cooperative banks handle a big chunk of rural and small business banking in India. With over 1,500 such banks, this rule could affect millions of customers by making services smoother and safer.
How Banks Can Get Ready
Admin users at each bank play a key role. They create login details for staff who will upload the reports.
Banks should train teams on the CIMS portal right away. The RBI has shared guides on its website to help with setup.
Some steps banks can take include:
- Check current data systems for CIMS fit.
- Set up secure logins and test uploads before the deadline.
- Review past reports to match the new format.
This prep work is vital. In recent events, like the 2024 shift for non-banking firms, many faced hiccups at first but saw benefits in efficiency later.
Experts note that CIMS uses advanced tech for data analysis. This could lead to better policy decisions, such as new rules on cyber threats, which hit Indian banks hard in early 2025.
Why This Matters for India’s Banking Future
The RBI is modernizing the sector to keep up with global standards. Centralized reporting helps fight issues like money laundering and improves trust in digital banking.
For cooperative banks, this means investing in tech upgrades. It could open doors to better services, like faster loans via apps, helping small businesses grow.
This rule ties into other 2025 updates, such as guidelines for digital lending. The RBI aims for a strong system that supports India’s economy, expected to grow 7 percent this year.
Banks that adapt well might gain an edge. Customers could see fewer service glitches and more secure online options.
Challenges and Next Steps
Switching to CIMS might be tough for smaller banks with limited tech. Some worry about extra costs for training and software.
The RBI has promised support, including workshops. Banks should reach out early to avoid penalties.
Overall, this step strengthens oversight. It reflects lessons from past events, like the 2023 data breach scares that prompted tighter rules.
As digital banking booms, with mobile users hitting 1 billion in India, such changes are key to safe growth.
What do you think about this RBI move? Share your views in the comments and pass this article to others in banking or finance.
