As we enter March 2024, it’s important to know when banks will be closed for holidays. This month, there will be at least 14 days when banks won’t open, including public holidays, regional celebrations, second and fourth Saturdays, and all Sundays. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and state governments decide these holidays together to make sure everyone across the country knows when banks will be closed.
Understanding March 2024 Bank Holidays:
National Holidays:
- March 1 – Chapchar Kut (Mizoram): Mizoram celebrates Chapchar Kut to welcome spring with fun events and cultural activities.
- March 8 – Mahashivratri: Most places in India observe Mahashivratri, a day to honor Lord Shiva, except for a few regions like Tripura and Mizoram.
- March 25 – Holi: Holi, the colorful festival, is celebrated all over India, except in some states like Karnataka and Odisha.
- March 29 – Good Friday: Good Friday, a special day for Christians, is observed in many parts of India, but not in places like Tripura and Assam.
State Holidays:
- March 22 – Bihar Diwas (Bihar): Bihar celebrates its founding day, Bihar Diwas, to remember its rich history and culture.
- March 26 – Yaosang second day/Holi: States like Odisha, Manipur, and Bihar have an extra day of Holi celebrations.
- March 27 – Holi (Bihar): Bihar has an additional day of Holi festivities to make the celebration even more joyful.
Regular Bank Closures:
- Every Second Saturday (March 9): Banks close on the second Saturday of every month to give their employees a break.
- Every Fourth Saturday (March 23): Similarly, banks also close on the fourth Saturday for maintenance and other tasks.
- Sundays (March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31): Like always, Sundays are off days for banks.
Online Banking Availability:
Even though physical banks will be closed on these days, online banking services will still be available. This means you can still do things like transfer money and check your account balance online, even when banks are closed.
Why It’s Important to Know:
While this guide gives you a good idea of when banks will be closed in March 2024, it’s a good idea to double-check with your bank’s website or branch. Sometimes there can be differences depending on where you are. The RBI is in charge of sharing this information, and you can find updates on their website.
In Conclusion:
March 2024 will have quite a few days when banks will be closed. By knowing ahead of time and planning accordingly, you can manage your banking needs smoothly. Whether it’s celebrating festivals or taking a break on weekends, let’s make sure our finances are in order and enjoy the month ahead!