On April 1, 2026, banks across most of India will observe a closure for the annual bank holiday, a routine practice that affects numerous financial institutions including the State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, and HDFC Bank. This closure is part of the year-end account closing process, which is crucial for financial reporting and auditing.

According to the Reserve Bank of India, all scheduled commercial banks will be affected by this closure, with branches set to reopen on April 2, except in Kerala, where business will be suspended due to Maundy Thursday. This means that customers in Kerala will face an extended break from banking services.

While the majority of banks will be closed, six states—Mizoram, Sikkim, Nagaland, Jharkhand, Meghalaya, and Himachal Pradesh—will keep their branches open. This exception allows residents in these areas to access banking services, although they are in the minority.

Despite the physical branch closures, digital banking services, including ATMs and UPI transactions, will operate normally on April 1. This is a critical point for many customers who rely on digital platforms for their banking needs. However, it is important to note that cheque clearance and settlement-linked transactions may experience delays due to the year-end closing activities.

April is known for its numerous bank holidays, including Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, which further complicates the banking landscape for customers. In total, banks may be closed for up to 14 days throughout the month, depending on regional observances and holidays.

As one banking official noted, “If you tried visiting your bank branch on Wednesday and found it locked, you are not alone — and there is nothing wrong with your account.” This sentiment reflects the understanding that many customers may be confused by the closures.

The closure applies only to physical branch counters, meaning that for most customers, the day will pass without any real disruption. Digital banking has become a reliable alternative, allowing users to manage their finances without needing to visit a branch.

April is one of the busier months on the bank holiday calendar, with several significant dates approaching, including Good Friday on April 3 and Basava Jayanti on April 20. As such, customers are encouraged to plan their banking activities accordingly.

In summary, while the April 1 bank holiday will impact many across India, the availability of digital banking services provides a buffer against potential disruptions. Customers are advised to stay informed about their banking options during this period.

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“The Green Infrastructure Bond issue marks a significant milestone for Bank of Baroda and a defining moment for India’s domestic ESG bond market,” said Debadatta Chand, a key participant in the bond issuance.

In a notable development, Bank of Baroda has raised ₹100 billion through its long-term green infrastructure bonds, aimed at supporting renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure projects. This issuance has attracted significant interest, with total bids reaching ₹164.15 billion, more than three times the base issue size of ₹50 billion.

The Series I Long-Term Green Infrastructure Bonds, which will run for seven years, were issued through the National Stock Exchange’s Electronic Book Platform. Investors can expect an annual interest rate of 7.1% on these bonds, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable investment opportunities.

The proceeds from these green infrastructure bonds will be directed towards eligible projects that align with Bank of Baroda’s Green Financing Framework. This initiative underscores the bank’s commitment to fostering environmentally sustainable practices within the financial sector.

Bank of Baroda has made history by becoming the first Indian bank to issue long-term green infrastructure bonds locally. The bond issue received a robust response, with bids amounting to ₹16,415 crore, significantly exceeding expectations.

Furthermore, the bonds have been assigned ‘AAA’ ratings with a stable outlook by CARE Ratings and ICRA Limited, indicating strong confidence from rating agencies in the bank’s financial stability and the viability of the projects funded by these bonds.

This bond issuance follows Bank of Baroda’s introduction of the bob Green Hydrogen Financing Scheme, which aims to support the development of green hydrogen production facilities for captive usage. Such initiatives highlight the bank’s proactive approach to promoting green technologies and sustainable energy solutions.

As the market for green bonds continues to evolve, Bank of Baroda’s successful issuance sets a precedent for other financial institutions in India. The growing interest in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investments is likely to drive further developments in this sector.

With the increasing focus on sustainability, the next steps for Bank of Baroda and other players in the market will be closely monitored as they seek to capitalize on the momentum generated by this bond issuance.

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