New Delhi, March 21, 2025 – In a significant development that could change the banking landscape in India, discussions are underway about whether banks across the country should move to a 5-day working week. The proposal, which has sparked considerable debate among industry stakeholders, is being considered in light of changing customer expectations, evolving digital banking trends, and a growing need for employee well-being.
Currently, most banks in India operate six days a week, with Sunday being the day off. However, several public sector banks have already reduced their working hours on Saturdays, while many private sector banks have introduced flexible work schedules. As the digital transformation of banking accelerates, questions are being raised about the need for brick-and-mortar branches to stay open six days a week, especially with a growing reliance on online banking and mobile apps.
The Proposal and Its Origins
The idea of banks operating for only five days a week has been gaining traction among policymakers and banking unions. Several factors are being considered, including the increased use of technology that allows customers to conduct a wide range of banking transactions online, reducing the need for physical branch visits. The proposal is also aimed at improving work-life balance for employees, who often have to work long hours during the week.
Sources close to the matter suggest that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been reviewing the possibility of a 5-day banking system, in consultation with major public and private sector banks, as well as trade unions. The plan would primarily affect retail branches, as back-end operations and specialized services might still require a different working arrangement.
The Impact on Customers
One of the key points of discussion is how this change would affect the average banking customer. While many customers have embraced the convenience of online banking, a significant portion of the population, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, still depends on physical branches for their banking needs. For them, the reduction in working days could be inconvenient, especially when urgent transactions or support is needed on weekends.
However, banking experts argue that the transition to a 5-day week could be managed without significantly affecting customer services. Rishi Sharma, an industry analyst, explained, “Banks are increasingly becoming technology-driven. Customers can perform many routine tasks like fund transfers, balance inquiries, bill payments, and even loan applications via mobile banking apps. The reliance on physical branches is decreasing, and a 5-day workweek could enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs for banks.”
Employees’ Perspective
For banking employees, the proposed shift could provide much-needed relief. Long working hours and pressure during weekends are common complaints among bank staff. In fact, several bank unions have expressed support for the move, arguing that it would allow employees to recharge over the weekends, improve productivity during working hours, and reduce burnout.
“Work-life balance is an issue that needs urgent attention in the banking sector,” said Neelam Rani, a member of the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA). “A 5-day week would not only benefit the employees but also improve overall customer service and job satisfaction.”
Challenges and Concerns
While the proposal has garnered support, it has also faced some opposition. Critics argue that such a move could inconvenience customers who still rely heavily on physical bank branches, especially in rural areas where digital banking penetration is lower. Additionally, smaller banks and local cooperative societies, which often serve communities with limited access to digital platforms, might find it harder to adjust to a 5-day week.
Another concern is that banks might need to rework their service models, which could involve restructuring their workforce and adjusting branch hours. With the pandemic-driven shift to remote banking, many bank employees have already adapted to hybrid work arrangements, but the move to a 5-day workweek might necessitate further investment in training and infrastructure to ensure that services remain uninterrupted.
What’s Next?
The proposal is still in the early stages, and no formal decision has been made yet. However, the debate continues to gain momentum as discussions between the RBI, banks, and unions are expected to continue in the coming months. Experts predict that a phased implementation might be the most practical solution, starting with pilot programs in select cities or regions, before a nationwide rollout.
For now, customers will need to wait and see whether this proposal becomes a reality. If implemented, the 5-day workweek could potentially reshape the way banking services are delivered in India, making it more efficient for both employees and customers. Whether this move will be a success or a challenge remains to be seen, but it’s clear that the future of banking in India is increasingly intertwined with digital innovation and evolving workforce needs.
Conclusion
As the banking sector continues to evolve, the proposal for a 5-day workweek reflects larger shifts in the industry, driven by technology and changing customer demands. Whether this change becomes reality or not, it is clear that banks are working to redefine their role in the digital era while considering the welfare of their employees. The final decision will likely be a balancing act, ensuring both customer satisfaction and employee well-being in an ever-changing financial landscape.