Bennisha
Expert
Published on: Sep 17, 2026
Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation
The Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) was launched on 15th July 1978. As a key subsidiary of the Reserve Bank of India, this corporation was formed by merging two entities: the Deposit Insurance Corporation (DIC) and the Credit Guarantee Corporation of India Limited (CGCI). The DICGC's primary mission is to provide insurance for deposits and guarantee credit facilities to bank customers, ensuring trust in the banking system amongst customers and depositors across India.
Objective of DICGC
The DICGC primarily benefits small depositors by bolstering public confidence in the banking system through deposit insurance. In the event of a bank failure, the DICGC steps in to compensate small depositors, ensuring they receive the amount deposited in any bank. This endeavor ensures stability and trust in financial transactions and the overall banking landscape in India.
All commercial banks, including foreign, local, cooperative banks, and regional banks are covered by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC).
Features of DICGC Guarantee
- Each depositor is granted a guarantee of up to Rs.1 lakh for both the principal and interest amounts.
- In cases where a customer holds accounts in various banks, each account enjoys coverage of Rs. 1 lakh.
- If a customer holds multiple accounts within a single bank, these accounts are aggregated as one for insurance purposes.
- Deposit insurance is provided to depositors at no cost.
- The insurance premium is paid by the insured banks directly to the DICGC.
- The DICGC holds the power to revoke the registration of a bank that fails to pay the premium for three consecutive half-year periods.
- Registration can be reinstated upon a bank's request, provided all overdue premiums are settled.
Types of Deposits Covered
All bank deposits, including savings deposits, current deposits, and recurring deposits, are insured by the DICGC. However, certain deposits do not fall under this umbrella:
- Deposits from foreign governments
- Deposits from Central/State Governments
- Inter-bank deposits
- Deposits from State Land Development Banks with the State cooperative banks
- Amounts due/deposits received outside India
- Amounts exempted by the corporation with prior RBI approval
Maintenance of Premium
Insured banks are required to pay the premium by the last day of May and November each year. Delays incur an 8% interest on overdue amounts, calculated on a daily basis assuming a 365-day year. The premium can be paid in these ways:
- Direct credit to the Deposit Insurance Fund account held by RBI, Mumbai.
- Payment via crossed cheque, demand draft, or T.T, dispatched for settlement in Mumbai.
Maintenance of Funds
The Corporation manages several funds which are crucial for its operations:
- Deposit Insurance Fund
- Credit Guarantee Fund
- General Fund
The first two funds are supported by insurance premiums and guarantee fees, facilitating claims compensation. The General Fund covers establishment and administrative expenditures. Surplus funds from these accounts are invested in Central Government securities, with the income directed back to the respective funds.
For initiatives supporting startups, such as the Notified Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups and the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), these funds play a vital role in extending the outreach of financial support.
Additionally, there are specific schemes addressing stressed non-performing assets (NPA) for MSMEs and initiatives like the Extension of Credit Guarantee Scheme for Subordinate Debt providing pivotal financial solutions.
The Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation also plays a significant role in support schemes like the NIRVIK Export Credit Insurance Scheme, enhancing export credit and boosting confidence among exporters.