'प्रादेशिक ग्रामीण बँकेची' सुरूवात कधी झाली होती ?

The correct answer is Option A (2nd October, 1975).

Key Points:
• Establishment of RRBs: Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) were established on 2nd October, 1975 (Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti) under the Regional Rural Banks Ordinance of 1975, later ratified as the RRB Act, 1976.
• Narasimham Working Group: Created on the specific recommendations of the M. Narasimham Working Group (1975) to develop rural credit infrastructure combining local rural familiarity with modern commercial banking efficiency.
• First RRB: The very first RRB launched was Prathama Bank sponsored by Syndicate Bank, headquartered at Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh.
• Capital Ownership Pattern: The equity share capital is held by three stakeholders:
• Central Government: 50%
• State Government: 15%
• Sponsor Bank: 35%
• Primary Purpose: Catering to small and marginal farmers, agricultural labourers, and rural artisans.
• Key Takeaway: Regional Rural Banks were first launched on 2nd October 1975 based on the Narasimham Working Group recommendations.