The Bihar Gramin Bank branch at Sonali Bazar, Katihar (Pincode 855114) serves local customers for deposits, withdrawals and fund transfers. For electronic transfers — NEFT, RTGS and IMPS — the correct IFSC code is essential. It routes your payment to the right bank and branch, avoids delays, and ensures money reaches the intended beneficiary without manual intervention.
Branch Details
| Bank Name | Bihar Gramin Bank |
| Branch Name | Sonali Bazar |
| IFSC Code | PUNB0MBGB06 |
| MICR Code | 800811002 |
| Branch Code | 100759 |
| Branch Address | Sonali Bazar, KATIHAR, 855114, 9297954206 |
| Contact Number | 9297954206 |
| City | KATIHAR |
| District | KATIHAR |
| Reason | PURNEA |
| Pincode | 855114 |
| State | Bihar |
Merger Update
The Bihar Gramin Bank network in this region has been reorganized under Punjab National Bank (PNB). Both Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank (UBGB) and Dakshin Bihar Gramin Bank (DBGB) were merged under PNB for operational consolidation. As a result, branches that earlier used UBGB/DBGB IFSCs now use the single PNB IFSC: PUNB0MBGB06.
Important: Old UBGB or DBGB IFSC codes have been revoked. Only the new IFSC PUNB0MBGB06 is valid for NEFT, RTGS and IMPS transactions to this branch. Use the new code when adding beneficiaries or making transfers to avoid failures or returns.
What is IFSC Code?
IFSC stands for Indian Financial System Code. It is an 11-character alphanumeric code used to identify bank branches in electronic payments.
- First 4 characters — identify the bank. Example: PUNB = Punjab National Bank.
- 5th character — reserved and is always 0 (zero).
- Last 6 characters — identify the specific branch. Example: in PUNB0MBGB06, the last six characters are MBGB06, the branch identifier used by PNB.
How to Use IFSC Code
Follow these steps to send or receive funds using NEFT, RTGS or IMPS:
- Collect beneficiary details: account name, account number, bank name and exact IFSC (PUNB0MBGB06) for Sonali Bazar branch.
- Log in to your internet banking, mobile banking app or visit the branch/ATM service for transfers.
- Choose transfer type:
- IMPS — instant, available 24×7 for small/urgent transfers (limits vary by bank).
- NEFT — nationwide settlement; available 24×7 for most banks for any amount (no minimum).
- RTGS — real-time gross settlement used for high-value funds; check your bank’s minimum (commonly ₹2 lakh and above, but confirm with your bank).
- Enter beneficiary name, account number and IFSC exactly. Check for characters that look similar (zero 0 vs letter O).
- Validate beneficiary (many banks require a one-time validation step before transfers are allowed).
- Enter amount and any remarks, verify details and authorize the payment with OTP or transaction PIN.
- Keep the transaction reference or UTR for tracking. For failed transfers, UTR helps customer service locate the payment.
Note: IMPS is immediate. NEFT is settled in hourly/continuous batches depending on bank rules; RTGS settles immediately for qualifying amounts. Always confirm limits and settlement windows with your bank.
Benefits of Knowing the IFSC
- Accurate routing: Ensures payments reach the correct branch without manual processing.
- Faster transfers: Correct IFSC reduces delays and makes NEFT/RTGS/IMPS smooth.
- Beneficiary validation: Banks use IFSC to pre-validate account details and reduce rejections.
- Dispute resolution: IFSC and transaction UTR help locate and resolve transfer issues quickly.
- Safer online banking: Entering precise IFSC reduces risk of funds being routed wrongly.
Contact
Branch Phone: 9297954206
Branch Address: Sonali Bazar, KATIHAR, 855114
Head Office Address: SHRI VISHNU COMMERCIAL COMPLEX, ASOCHAK, PATNA-800030, BIHAR
Toll Free Number: 18001807777
FAQs
Q: How do I confirm the correct IFSC before making a transfer?
A: Confirm with the beneficiary (ask them to read it from a passbook or cheque leaf) or call the branch on 9297954206. Always verify the 11-character format (4 letters, a zero, 6 characters).
Q: What happens if I enter a wrong IFSC but correct account number?
A: If the IFSC mismatches the account number and bank, the transfer may be rejected or returned. If the IFSC points to the correct bank and branch and the account number exists there, the bank may still credit the account. To avoid risk, double-check both IFSC and account number.
Q: Are IFSC and MICR the same?
A: No. IFSC (11 characters) is used for electronic transfers. MICR (Numeric, e.g., 800811002) is used for cheque processing and clearing and is printed on cheques.
Q: The branch used to have a UBGB/DBGB IFSC. What should I do now?
A: Use the new PNB IFSC PUNB0MBGB06. Old UBGB/DBGB IFSC codes have been revoked after the merger. Update beneficiaries in your bank and verify small test transfers if needed.
Q: How long does a failed NEFT or RTGS transfer take to return to my account?
A: If a transfer fails (for example, due to invalid details), banks generally reverse funds within 2–7 working days, depending on the reason and inter-bank settlement. Keep your payment reference/UTR and contact your bank’s customer service or the branch at 9297954206 for status.
Kritti Kumari is a banker and MBA graduate who writes about banking, finance, and customer-friendly services. She simplifies complex financial products into easy guides, helping readers understand Bihar Gramin Bank’s offerings and make smarter money decisions.