RBI unifies loan-recovery rules; bars harassment from 1 January 2027
The RBI issued nine circulars on 6 August 2026 creating a unified framework — the Amendment Directions — that standardises loan-recovery practices across all classes of regulated entities (banks, NBFCs, etc.) by amending the Responsible Business Conduct framework. The rules take effect from 1 January 2027 (deferred from 1 October 2026 to allow transition). Key protections: recovery-related phone calls and physical visits are permitted only between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM; every recovery agent must hold a current training certificate from an RBI-recognised programme before contacting borrowers; and lenders must frame a detailed recovery policy including compensation to borrowers for losses from non-compliant recovery.
Regulator of banks & NBFCs: RBI | RBI consumer-protection scheme: RB-IOS (Integrated Ombudsman Scheme), 2021 | Lender conduct governed by the Fair Practices Code
RBI's Amendment Directions (nine circulars, 6 Aug 2026) unify loan-recovery rules — calls/visits only 8 AM-7 PM, certified agents only — effective 1 January 2027.