Cooperative banks across the country to remain open on September 28, 29, and 30; no strike planned

Cooperative banks across the country will not participate in the strike. This decision brings significant relief to small traders, farmers, and ordinary citizens who rely on cooperative banks for cash and day-to-day banking activities.

Amidst the announced three-day nationwide strike by public sector banks from September 28 to 30, there is welcome news for the general public and rural account holders. Cooperative banks across the country will remain open on all three days; in other words, their employees will not go on strike.

The cooperative banking sector comprises State Cooperative Banks, District Central Cooperative Banks, and Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). None of these will participate in the strike, and they will operate as usual. Unions representing cooperative bank employees have clarified that essential services—such as cash deposits, withdrawals, rural transactions, and cheque clearing—will continue without interruption.

Banking services to continue uninterrupted

Cooperative banks have assured customers that, despite the three-day strike (September 28–30) announced by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU)—during which bank branches nationwide will remain closed—ATM and online banking services will continue without disruption.

Key bodies associated with cooperative banking—such as NAFCUB, NUCFDC, and NAFSCoB—have clarified that cooperative banks will not join this three-day strike. They will remain open and operational as usual throughout this period.

What is the cooperative banking network like?

The cooperative banking network comprises...

1,450 Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)
34 State Cooperative Banks (STCBs)
and 351 District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs).

What is the primary function of cooperative banks? It is worth noting that cooperative banks operate across villages, towns, and cities. They primarily serve farmers, rural households, small business owners, traders, and entrepreneurs. Standard banking services—such as depositing, withdrawing, and transferring money—will continue to function as usual at bank branches. Customers will continue to avail themselves of these facilities in accordance with the rules and procedures of the respective bank branches.