New Delhi, June 20 -- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday issued final guidelines for the Lead Bank Scheme (LBS) after incorporating public feedback.

The revised framework aims to strengthen district-level banking coordination, enhance accountability, and formalise credit planning at the block level, with the broader objective of improving credit flow to priority sectors and deepening financial inclusion.

The guidelines replace all earlier instructions governing the scheme, under which designated lead banks coordinate with other banks, government departments and development agencies at the district level.

Dedicated District Managers

Under the new norms, every lead bank must appoint a Lead District Manager (LDM) exclusively for e...