The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been observing Financial Literacy Week (FLW) annually since 2016 with a view to promoting financial awareness among various sections of society through focused themes. Financial Literacy Week 2026, being observed from February 9 to 13, 2026, marks the 11th edition of this flagship initiative of the Reserve Bank.
The week-long programme aims to enhance public awareness on key financial aspects, encourage responsible financial behaviour and strengthen trust in the formal financial system. Financial Literacy Week 2026 was inaugurated today in Chandigarh by Vivek Srivastava, Regional Director, RBI Chandigarh. The theme for this year is “KYC –Your First Step to Safe Banking”.
The theme is supported by sub-themes focusing on the Basics of Know Your Customer (KYC), Central KYC Registry (CKYC), and Account Hygiene and Discipline, with the objective of sensitising the public about the importance of maintaining updated customer information and adopting safe banking practices. Addressing the gathering, Shri Vivek Srivastava emphasised that KYC is a critical regulatory and risk-mitigation measure which forms the backbone of safe and secure banking.
He highlighted the importance of timely updation of KYC details by customers to prevent misuse of accounts and financial frauds. He also underscored the significant role played by the Central KYC Records Registry (CKYCR) in ensuring seamless sharing of verified customer information across banks and financial institutions.
Stressing the need for continuous vigilance, he cautioned against cyber frauds, digital scams and money mule activities, and urged customers to remain alert and disciplined in their banking behaviour. He noted that after initial challenges, the CKYCR system has stabilised and is now functioning as an effective tool to enhance transparency and security in the banking system.
As part of Financial Literacy Week 2026, the Reserve Bank, in collaboration with banks and other stakeholders, will conduct financial literacy camps, awareness programmes, customer interaction sessions and outreach activities across the country. In Chandigarh, a mobile awareness van carrying key financial literacy messages was flagged off from the RBI Chandigarh Regional Office to reach a wider audience, including the general public, senior citizens, students and small traders.
In addition, awareness hoardings have been installed at prominent locations across the city to reinforce messages related to KYC compliance, cyber safety and responsible banking practices. The Reserve Bank has stated that these awareness initiatives will continue beyond the designated week to ensure sustained impact and deeper penetration of financial literacy messages, thereby contributing to a more informed, secure and resilient banking ecosystem.