What happened: DFS workshop on accessibility for Divyangjans across the financial ecosystem

The Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance convened a two-day workshop from 20–21 August 2026 in Bengaluru, in association with Union Bank of India, at its Staff College in Bengaluru. Day 2 of the workshop focused on measures to enhance the accessibility of financial services for Divyangjans (Persons with Disabilities) across public sector entities and regulators.

Participants discussed inclusion and accessibility in Public Sector Banks (PSBs), Public Sector Insurance Companies (PSICs), Sectoral Regulators, and Public Financial Institutions (PFIs). The workshop included participation from technology and HR leadership as well as regulators and financial-sector entities.

Key participation included: Chief Technology Officers and senior HR functionaries from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), and Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI); all 12 Public Sector Banks; 7 Public Sector Insurance Companies; and 7 Public Sector Financial Institutions.

Background and earlier position: sensitisation on standards and compliance for accessibility

The workshop highlighted the Sugamya Bharat initiative (a Government initiative aimed at improving accessibility in public spaces and services for persons with disabilities). A sensitisation session was conducted on accessibility standards and compliance requirements to build shared understanding across institutions.

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