
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) announced that the newly introduced same-day cheque clearing system (T+0) has largely stabilised after facing initial technical and operational hiccups. According to NPCI, the central system has been functioning smoothly since October 13, 2025, and most of the early issues have been resolved in coordination with participating banks.
The clarification comes amid widespread concern over cheque clearance delays and transaction mismatches following the shift from the traditional T+1 batch processing model to the new continuous clearing mechanism. The system, which enables same-day credit for cheques, was implemented nationwide on October 4, 2025, as directed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
NPCI Says Early ‘Teething Issues’ Now Under Control
In an official statement, NPCI acknowledged that it faced some “teething issues” during the initial rollout phase, both at the central clearing system level and within participating banks. These challenges led to delays in cheque processing, credit mismatches, and an increased number of returns during the first week of implementation.
Despite the early turbulence, NPCI reported that the system has since processed over 14.9 million cheque instruments amounting to ₹8.49 lakh crore through its Centralised Clearing House (CCH). It added that it continues to work closely with banks to iron out residual issues and ensure full stabilisation of same-day settlement across the banking network.
Banks Advise Customers to Use Digital Channels
In light of the transition-related disruptions, several banks have advised customers to temporarily prefer digital payment modes such as NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, and UPI for smoother transactions.
For instance, Thane Bharat Sahakari Bank informed its customers that cheque realisation had been delayed under the continuous clearing model, urging them to rely on digital payment systems during this adjustment phase. The bank also issued an apology for the inconvenience caused by the new process.
Unions Flag Operational Gaps and Seek RBI Support
Meanwhile, bank unions have raised concerns about the preparedness of the banking sector for the shift to real-time cheque clearing. The Maharashtra State Bank Employees Federation (MSBEF), in a letter to the RBI, commended the initiative’s intent but pointed out that its implementation lacked adequate operational readiness.
The union reported that bank staff are facing software malfunctions, insufficient training, and extended work hours, leading to delays in reconciliation, customer grievances, and potential financial risks.
Devidas Tuljapurkar, General Secretary of MSBEF, urged the RBI to intervene and streamline the process to avoid further disruptions. “If immediate resolution is not possible, we respectfully suggest deferring the implementation of same-day cheque clearing until after the festive season and until adequate system readiness is assured,” he said.
RBI Expected to Monitor Progress Closely
With the festive season underway and cheque volumes typically rising, industry observers believe that the RBI may step in to ensure smooth functioning of the upgraded system. The regulator is expected to monitor the situation and coordinate with NPCI and banks to mitigate operational risks and restore public confidence.
The successful stabilisation of the system will be crucial to achieving the RBI’s broader goal of accelerating payment efficiency and reducing settlement time across India’s banking ecosystem.
Summary
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has announced that the same-day cheque clearing system (T+0), launched on October 4, 2025, has stabilised after facing early operational issues. While over ₹8.49 lakh crore worth of cheques have been processed, some banks continue to face technical and reconciliation challenges. Bank unions, including the Maharashtra State Bank Employees Federation (MSBEF), have requested RBI intervention, citing staff strain, system glitches, and customer inconvenience. NPCI has assured continued collaboration with banks to ensure smooth and timely cheque settlements across the country.
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