Table of Contents
India’s largest public sector bank, the State Bank of India (SBI), is preparing for a major expansion drive. Chairman C.S. Setty revealed that the bank will recruit nearly 16,000 employees this financial year and expects to maintain the same hiring pace in the coming years to support its growing operations and customer service needs.
Alongside the hiring spree, SBI is also set to open 200–300 new branches in FY26. This move is part of its broader strategy to scale its business from ₹100 lakh crore in Q2 FY26 to ₹200 lakh crore within the next 6–7 years.
Filling “White Spaces” Across India
According to Setty, SBI continues to identify underserved locations—referred to as “white spaces”—where new branches are needed despite its already extensive network.
He highlighted that new residential colonies and developing townships often lack adequate banking infrastructure. To bridge these gaps, the bank will continue expanding both branches and ATMs based on footfall analysis and micro-market data.
Hiring Momentum Continues
1: What does the acronym "ATM" stand for in banking?
Setty confirmed that SBI’s recruitment drive for this fiscal year is nearing completion, with around 16,000 fresh hires joining shortly. This hiring trend is expected to continue annually as part of the bank’s growth plans.
As of March 2025, SBI employed 2.36 lakh people, with women making up 28% of the workforce. Employee costs rose 11% year-on-year to ₹36,837 crore in the first half of FY26.
Enroll in Kerala's Top-rated Bank Coaching Program!
Are you ready to take your banking career aspirations to new heights? Join Entri App's Bank Exam Coaching program to kickstart your preparations!
Join Now!Boosting Operations Through SBOSS
SBI is also expanding the role of its wholly owned subsidiary, State Bank Operations Support Services (SBOSS), especially in rural and semi-urban regions. SBOSS supports the bank by helping beneficiaries of government schemes, sourcing applications for agriculture and small businesses, and monitoring over 60,000 ATMs.
SBI has named ATM-monitoring staff under SBOSS as “ATM Mitras”—local residents responsible for ensuring the machines’ availability, cleanliness, and maintenance. With the Reserve Bank of India allowing more than 20 activities to be outsourced, SBI plans to deploy 6,000 SBOSS workers across branches for on-ground coordination.
Why is SBI Hiring 16,000 Employees Annually?
SBI currently serves more than 48 crore customers, making it the backbone of India’s banking ecosystem. To handle growing customer needs, digital transactions, and operational complexities, the bank requires a stronger workforce.
Here are the key reasons behind this massive hiring initiative:
1. Strengthening Customer-Service Operations
With increasing footfall in branches, SBI needs more staff to reduce waiting times, improve customer interaction, and provide quicker resolution of banking issues.
2. Supporting New Branches
Every new branch requires a dedicated team—from clerks and officers to branch managers and customer service associates. Hiring ensures smooth operations at the 200–300 new locations planned for FY26.
3. Meeting Digital Banking Requirements
As SBI pushes for digital adoption, it needs skilled professionals trained in fintech, data analytics, cybersecurity, and customer digital support.
4. Replacing Retiring Workforce
A large portion of SBI’s existing staff is approaching retirement age. Continuous hiring is essential to maintain workforce balance and avoid resource gaps.
With these points in mind, SBI’s decision to bring in fresh talent looks both strategic and necessary.
200–300 New Branches: Expanding SBI’s Reach
Despite the surge in digital banking, physical branches remain crucial—especially in a country as diverse as India.
SBI’s expansion plan focuses on rural and semi-urban areas, where digital access may still be limited. New branches will help:
✔ Improve access to banking services
People in remote areas often travel long distances for basic banking needs. New branches will reduce this burden.
✔ Promote financial inclusion
More branches mean easier access to loans, savings accounts, and government schemes.
✔ Strengthen local economies
New branches create employment opportunities and support small businesses, farmers, and entrepreneurs.
✔ Increase trust and personal touch
Many customers still prefer face-to-face banking for major financial decisions. SBI recognizes the importance of maintaining this connection.
Enroll in Kerala's Top-rated Bank Coaching Program!
Are you ready to take your banking career aspirations to new heights? Join Entri App's Bank Exam Coaching program to kickstart your preparations!
Join Now!Frequently Asked Questions
What is SBI’s hiring plan for FY26?
SBI plans to hire around 16,000 employees annually in FY26, focusing on strengthening its workforce across branches, customer service roles, and specialized banking operations.
Why is SBI hiring such a large number of employees?
The bank aims to improve customer service, support its expansion strategy, and meet growing demand for banking services as it opens new branches nationwide.
How many new branches will SBI open in FY26?
SBI is set to add 200–300 new branches in FY26, with a significant focus on semi-urban and rural areas to enhance financial inclusion.
Will the new hiring include both clerical and officer roles?
Yes. SBI’s recruitment will include clerical staff (junior associates), probationary officers (POs), and specialist officers (SOs) to meet diverse operational needs.
How will SBI’s expansion benefit customers?
The expansion will lead to improved access to banking services, shorter queues, more personalized service, and better availability of banking facilities across India.
What skills will SBI prioritize in new recruits?
SBI will focus on candidates with skills in digital banking, customer interaction, data handling, and financial services, along with a strong service-oriented mindset.
When will SBI release recruitment notifications for FY26?
Recruitment notifications are expected to be released periodically throughout FY26, typically announced on SBI’s careers portal and through official advertisements.
