Bank of Baroda Launches Shareholder Campaign

Bank of Baroda has launched a 100-day campaign called 'Saksham Niveshak,' running from April 1 to July 9, 2026. The initiative aims to help shareholders update their Know Your Customer (KYC) details and claim any unpaid dividends, encouraging prompt action to avoid funds being transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF).

Bank of Baroda's New Shareholder Drive

Bank of Baroda is running the 'Saksham Niveshak' campaign, a drive aimed at boosting shareholder engagement. This 100-day campaign, from April 1 to July 9, 2026, seeks to help shareholders update their KYC details and claim any pending unpaid dividends. The bank urges shareholders to complete these updates promptly to prevent their dividends from being transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF).

Why the Campaign Matters

The campaign highlights the importance of shareholders keeping their information current. This ensures they receive their dividends on time and don't forfeit them to the IEPF. For Bank of Baroda, it shows a proactive effort in investor relations and meeting regulatory requirements, particularly concerning unclaimed assets.

Background: IEPF Rules and Unclaimed Assets

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPF) often runs campaigns like 'Saksham Niveshak' to educate investors and address issues with unclaimed dividends and shares. Assets remain unclaimed for seven years before being transferred to the IEPF. Recent amendments to the Banking Laws Act now require Public Sector Banks (PSBs) like Bank of Baroda to transfer unclaimed assets to the IEPF starting August 1, 2025. The bank is adapting its efforts to this regulatory change, encouraging shareholders to claim funds proactively.

Next Steps for Shareholders

Bank of Baroda shareholders are encouraged to take part in this campaign. Updating KYC and claiming unpaid dividends will ensure payments are sent directly to them, preventing asset transfer to the IEPF. The bank is offering a clear timeline and process for these actions.

Risks of Inaction

Shareholders who fail to update their KYC or claim dividends during the campaign period risk having their unpaid amounts transferred to the IEPF. While these funds can be claimed later from the IEPF, the process is generally more difficult.

Industry Context: Peer Banks' Efforts

Major public sector banks, including State Bank of India (SBI) and Punjab National Bank (PNB), also run investor outreach programs. Like Bank of Baroda, these banks are focusing on improving shareholder communication and compliance, particularly due to new IEPF transfer rules. While public sector banks used to trail private banks in some metrics, they have recently improved significantly in performance and digital adoption.

What to Watch For

Key points to watch include shareholder participation in 'Saksham Niveshak', the total amount of unclaimed dividends successfully claimed, Bank of Baroda's continued efforts to keep shareholder records updated and improve communication, and any further directives from the IEPF or regulators on unclaimed assets.