RBI Consolidates 9,000 Circulars into 238 Master Directions
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a major regulatory overhaul, merging roughly 9,000 circulars into just 238 consolidated Master Directions. This initiative aims to simplify compliance for banks and financial institutions.
Key Takeaways
- 9,000+ circulars consolidated into 238 Master Directions.
- Categorised across 11 entity types and 30 functional areas.
- Public feedback open until November 10, 2025.
- New framework effective until October 9, 2025.
The consolidation is designed to reduce the regulatory burden and compliance costs for regulated entities while making instructions more accessible. The central bank emphasized that this is a strict ‘as is’ consolidation, with no changes to the substance of existing regulations.
Drafts of the new Master Directions and a list of circulars marked for repeal have been published for stakeholder consultation. The RBI has invited feedback on the completeness and accuracy of the drafts by November 10, 2025.



