Banks refuse to issue coins to public, RBI seeks explanation

GANGTOK, 18 Sept: The secretary general of Sikkim Chamber of Commerce filed a written complaint with the Reserve Bank of India on 14 September against some banks allegedly refusing to issue coins over the counter to the public on demand.
A press release issued by the secretary general, SCC, Kailash Agarwal informs that the Central Bank of India and State Bank of India have been asked to serve an explanation regarding the same by the RBI. The banks have also been asked to provide the position of coin stock at the close of business on 13 September 2012.
As per circular no. DCM (CC) No. G-5/03.39.01/2010-11 dated July 01, 2010 of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) all banks having currency chest are duty bound to issue of coins over the counter to any member of public on demand, the release adds.

Chamber of Commerce steps up to assist relief efforts

GANGTOK, 20 Sept: The Sikkim Chamber of Commerce has conveyed its condolences to the families of those killed in the Sunday earthquake. “It was an unimaginable natural disaster which has caused huge damage to the lives and properties in our State and other parts of the country,” the SCC conveys in a press communiqué issued today.
The release adds that the Chamber, in association with State Government of Sikkim and disaster relief team, has started a relief camp for victims.
The Chamber has also assured to extend all possible support and cooperation to the State Government in its relief works.