FM Nirmala Sitharaman announces Mega PSB merger; Punjab National Bank to Allahabad Bank, 10 banks amalgamated into 4

The PM Narendra Modi led NDA government has announced major reforms in the banking sector. Speaking on the issue today, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said 10 public sector banks (PSBs) will be merged into 4 entities, which includes the amalgamation of Oriental Bank of Commerce and United Bank of India with Punjab National Bank.

The Canara Bank and Syndicate Bank will be merged into one entity. At the same time, Union Bank of India, Andhra Bank and Corporation Bank will be amalgamated into a single entity. Indian Bank and Allahabad Bank will become one entity too. However, Bank of India and Central Bank of India would remain independent. 

According to the finance minister, till 2012, there were 27 public sector banks, but now after the amalgamation, only 12 consolidated banks will operate to provide necessary banking support.  

Consequent to the merger, Punjab National Bank will become the second-largest PSB in India with a total business of Rs 17.5 lakh crore.

Additionally, the total business of the merged entity of Canara Bank and Syndicate Bank will be Rs 15.20 lakh crore. It will become the fourth largest PSB in the country.