The RBI's revised directions on deposit interest rates, including the bulk deposit framework, become effective from which date?

Explanation: The RBI's revised directions on interest rates on deposits, including the bulk deposit framework, take effect from October 1, 2026. A bulk deposit is defined as a single term deposit of Rs 3 crore and above. The revised rules require banks to publish bulk deposit rate schedules by 10:00 AM (grace period up to 10:10 AM) every business day and allow banks to link bulk deposit pricing to Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) run-off risk while banning discriminatory pricing among depositors placing equivalent amounts on the same day. These directions draw authority from Sections 35A and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.