Kolkata, 02 January 2026 :
The State Bank of India Officers’ Association (SBIOA), Bengal Circle, is set to celebrate its Diamond Jubilee Year, marking 60 years of dedicated service to the banking sector and society at large. Established during a defining phase of India’s working-class movement, the association has played a pivotal role in shaping the journey of public sector banking, particularly in the post-nationalisation era.
Formed six decades ago amid the nationwide movement for bank nationalisation, SBIOA (Bengal Circle) has consistently worked to transform banking from a class-oriented system into a mass-oriented service. Since the takeover of the Imperial Bank of India by the Reserve Bank of India in July 1955 and the subsequent evolution of the State Bank of India, officers of SBI—supported by the association—have remained at the forefront of aligning banking services with citizens’ aspirations while safeguarding the dignity and rights of bank officers.
Over the years, SBIOA (Bengal Circle) has actively opposed regressive economic policies and stood firm in defence of public sector banking. The association has also been instrumental in implementing pro-people government initiatives at both central and state levels, often extending support beyond regular working hours. Its role was particularly visible during demonetisation, the COVID-19 pandemic, large-scale Jan Dhan account openings, and in facilitating the reach of various government welfare schemes to underserved communities.
Beyond banking, the association has maintained a strong commitment to social responsibility. Through its various units and wings, SBIOA (Bengal Circle) regularly organises blood donation camps, participates in disaster relief operations, and provides financial assistance to meritorious yet underprivileged students. The association also nurtures cultural expression through its in-house cultural wing, encouraging artistic talents among its members.
Guided by its parent bodies—the All India State Bank Officers’ Federation (AISBOF) and the All India Bank Officers’ Confederation (AIBOC)—SBIOA (Bengal Circle) continues to defend bank nationalisation and oppose policies such as the recently introduced Labour Codes, which it views as detrimental to workers’ interests. The association remains committed to key demands, including a five-day work week, adequate recruitment at all levels, and the protection of priority sector lending. It has also indicated that, if necessary, bank officers may resort to a nationwide strike in late January 2026 to press these demands.
As part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, SBIOA (Bengal Circle) will present a special tableau depicting its 60-year journey of service to the nation. The 60th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the association is scheduled to be held on January 10, 2026, at Nazrul Manch, Kolkata, where the roadmap for future initiatives will be outlined.
Expressing gratitude to well-wishers, seniors, and extended family members, the association reaffirmed its resolve to serve society with renewed vigour while continuing its active participation in democratic working-class movements.
