Context:
Public sector banks (PSBs) have witnessed a major leap in recovery of stressed assets through their revamped property e-auction platform, BAANKNET, which became operational on July 1, 2024 and was formally launched in January 2025.
BAANKNET
BAANKNET is an online platform specifically designed for banks and lending institutions in India to auction properties acquired due to Non-Performing Asset (NPA) loans. It serves as a one-stop destination for buyers and investors to discover and participate in e-auctions of various assets like residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial properties.
Features & Impact of BAANKNET
- Unified platform used by all 12 nationalised banks and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)
- Enhanced buyer transparency through:
- Uploading of photos and videos of properties
- Clearer, user-friendly interface
- Behavioural impact on defaulters:
Some borrowers initiate One-Time Settlement (OTS) negotiations once listed, mirroring trends seen after NCLT adoption.
Transition from e-Bikray
- e-Bikray was launched in February 2019 as a centralised PSB property sale portal.
- BAANKNET replaces it with higher auction success, better transparency, and digital integration with IBBI and banks.
