Mumbai, February 20: Banking operations in select parts of India will be suspended today, February 20, 2026, as two northeastern states celebrate their Statehood Day. According to the official holiday calendar released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), branches in Aizawl (Mizoram) and Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) will remain closed to mark the 39th anniversary of their transition to full statehood in 1987.

While financial institutions in most of the country remain operational, residents in the affected regions are advised to plan their branch-related tasks accordingly. Bank Holidays in February 2026: Check State-Wise Closures and RBI Schedule As Banks To Remain Closed on These Days Next Month.

Affected Cities and Regions Due to February 20 Bank Holiday

The holiday is regional and applies only to specific jurisdictions under the Negotiable Instruments Act. As per the RBI's city-wise list, banks will be closed in:

  • Aizawl (Mizoram)

  • Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh)

In all other major metropolitan areas - including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru - banks will function during their standard working hours.

Why February 20 Is a Bank Holiday

February 20 holds historical significance for Northeast India. On this day in 1987, both Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram were elevated from Union Territories to the 24th and 23rd states of the Indian Union, respectively. This followed years of political evolution and, in Mizoram's case, the landmark 1986 Mizo Peace Accord. Statehood Day is traditionally observed with cultural programs and public ceremonies, necessitating a closure of public offices and banks.

Digital Banking and Essential Services

While physical branch services like cheque clearances, demand draft issuance, and large cash deposits will be unavailable in Aizawl and Itanagar today, essential digital services remain unaffected nationwide.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Closures

Following today’s regional holiday, banks across India will be closed on Sunday, February 22. Additionally, branches nationwide will remain shut on Saturday, February 28, as it is the fourth Saturday of the month. Customers who require in-person assistance are encouraged to complete their transactions by the first half of the following week.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 20, 2026 07:26 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).