RBI clears Debasish Panda as Bandhan Bank Chairman

The RBI has approved the appointment of Debasish Panda, former Chairman of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) and a retired IAS officer, as the Part-Time Chairman of Bandhan Bank. His tenure will span three years, subject to regulatory conditions.

Panda brings extensive experience in financial sector governance and public administration, having previously served as Secretary in the Department of Financial Services under the Ministry of Finance. During his tenure, he played a key role in banking reforms, insurance sector expansion, and policy formulation.

His appointment comes at a time when Bandhan Bank is navigating asset quality pressures and working to strengthen its governance framework. The move is expected to enhance board oversight and regulatory alignment, given Panda’s deep understanding of financial regulation.

The RBI’s approval underscores confidence in his ability to guide the bank through its next phase of consolidation and growth.