NRB Introduces Mandatory Disability Friendly Banking Measures Across Nepal

Nepal Rastra Bank has instructed banks and financial institutions to make banking services more accessible and inclusive for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and illiterate individuals.

Under the new provisions, banks are required to provide priority services through dedicated counters for such customers. The central bank has also directed banks and financial institutions to coordinate with each other to ensure that at least one branch in every local level is disability friendly. Details of such branches must be published on the institution's websites. Similarly, banks have been instructed to install at least one disability friendly ATM equipped with Braille sign control buttons and audio support at locations with ATM lounges. Information regarding these ATMs must also be made available on websites.

The central bank stated that if a person with disability self-declares inability to use services such as ATM, mobile banking, or internet banking independently, licensed institutions must provide the necessary support. Banks and financial institutions have also been directed to develop websites and mobile banking applications that are accessible to visually impaired users. Debit and credit cards issued by banks must include tactile features for visually impaired customers.

In addition, the central bank has prohibited banks from assigning employees work beyond the scope permitted by prevailing laws and regulatory directives. Institutions must provide additional remuneration for overtime work and cannot force employees to work beyond office hours.