Bandhan Bank Gets RBI’s Approval To Appoint Debasish Panda As Chairman

CW Bureau ·

The Reserve Bank of India has granted its prior approval for the appointment of Debasish Panda as part-time Chairman of Bandhan Bank. His appointment will be for a period of three years, with effect from the date of taking charge, Bandhan Bank said in a disclosure to stock exchanges.

Distinguished civil service career

Debasish Panda, a 1987 batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, is a visionary leader and transformative policy reformer. Over his distinguished career spanning more than three decades, he has made pioneering contributions across finance, insurance, public health, agriculture, law enforcement, and urban development.

Leadership at IRDAI

As Chairman of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), he spearheaded the vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’, redefined regulatory frameworks, and prioritised customer-centric governance.

Role in financial sector reforms

As Secretary, Department of Financial Services (2020–2022), he led critical banking consolidations, promoted financial inclusion, and managed COVID-19 financial responses. He also served as Director on the Boards of the Reserve Bank of India, State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, and Life Insurance Corporation of India.

Administrative contributions in Uttar Pradesh

Earlier, in the Government of Uttar Pradesh, he introduced India’s largest emergency response system (Dial 112) and modernised urban governance in Greater Noida. His leadership is marked by technology-led governance, institution building, and a strong commitment to public service.

Academic credentials

He holds advanced degrees from Utkal University, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and the Asian Institute of Management, and has completed international training in public administration.