The Reserve Bank of India follows a state-specific holiday system. This means bank closures depend on local festivals and observances.
New Year’s Day often brings celebration, but it also brings confusion to bank customers. In 2026, January 1 falls on a Thursday, and many people want to know if banks will be open or closed on that day.
The answer is simple, January 1, 2026, is not a nationwide bank holiday. Banks will remain open in most parts of India. However, a few states will observe a holiday.
The Reserve Bank of India follows a state-specific holiday system. This means bank closures depend on local festivals and observances.
Yes, but only in select states.
Under the Negotiable Instruments Act, some states observe a bank holiday on January 1 due to New Year’s Day and Gaan-Ngai celebrations. In these regions, bank branches will remain closed.
In all other states, banks will function normally.
As per the RBI holiday calendar, bank branches will stay shut on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in the following states:
Customers in these states should plan branch visits.
Banks will remain open in most Indian states and Union Territories on January 1, 2026.
Customers can visit branches for:
Still, it is advisable to confirm timings with your local branch to avoid inconvenience.
Even where branches remain closed, digital banking services will continue as usual.
Customers can use:
These services remain available 24/7, even on bank holidays.
On bank holidays, branch-dependent services may slow down. These include:
If you need any of these services, plan your visit before or after the holiday.
Bank holidays in India vary by state. The RBI prepares its calendar based on:
That is why a bank may be open in one state and closed in another on the same day.
Apart from January 1, banks may remain closed in different states during January for:
Banks will also remain closed on Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays.
Check the RBI’s state-wise holiday list before visiting a branch. Confirm timings with your local bank, and use digital services whenever possible.
Planning can help you avoid delays and start the New Year smoothly.
