ICAI Announcement: Draft Bank Branch Auditors’ Panel 2025–26
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ICAI PDC Announcement: Draft Bank Branch Auditors’ Panel (MEF) 2025–26
The Professional Development Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India has officially released the Draft Bank Branch Auditors’ Panel for the year 2025–26, as per an announcement dated 23 January 2026. Where It Is Hosted: The draft panel has been hosted on the official MEF portal at www.meficai.org.
Access to Draft Panel: Applicants can check their categorization (Category A/B/C) based on the applicable RBI‑aligned guidelines by visiting the official MEF portal: http://meficai.org Key Highlights: The panel has been prepared as per RBI norms dated 6 March 2023. Applicants can view details using MEF No., FRN, or MRN. The panel displays MEF No., FRN No., Applicant Name, Unique Code Number, Category, District, Reason for ineligibility (if any), and Reason for change in category (where applicable).
Availability Window: The Draft Panel will remain available until Friday, 30 January 2026.
MEF 2026-27 Submission Deadline Extended to 09 September 2026
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has provided additional time for chartered accountants and CA firms to complete their Multipurpose Empanelment Form (MEF) submission for the financial year 2026-27. ICAI Extends MEF 2026-27 Last Date
- In a significant relief to practicing chartered accountants and audit firms, ICAI has extended the last date for submission of the Multipurpose Empanelment Form (MEF) from 29 August 2026 to 09 September 2026.
- The extension provides applicants with an opportunity to review, update, and submit accurate information required for empanelment, which is crucial for consideration of various professional assignments including bank branch audits and other audit-related engagements.
Why is MEF Important?
The Multipurpose Empanelment Form (MEF) serves as a comprehensive database of chartered accountants and CA firms maintained by the ICAI. Information furnished through MEF is utilized by various authorities and institutions for allocation of professional assignments.
Timely and accurate filing of MEF helps maintain an updated professional profile, enhances eligibility for audit and assurance assignments, and ensures consideration for bank branch audit allocations. And comply with ICAI empanelment requirements. Key Update at a Glance
- Previous Last Date: 29 August 2026
- Revised Last Date: 09 September 2026
- Extension Granted By: ICAI
- Applicability: MEF 2026-27 Applicants
MEF Queries and Complaint Resolution
ICAI has also clarified that applicants facing any difficulties seeking clarification or wishing to lodge a complaint regarding MEF 2026-27 may contact the Professional Development Committee (PDC) through the “MEF Complaints Portal” available on the official MEF website. MEF Portal: https://meficai.org/
- Applicants are advised to use the dedicated portal for technical issues during filing, corrections and clarification requests, and status-related queries. And submission-related complaints.
- Official Notification: The official ICAI announcement regarding the extension can be accessed here: https://www.icai.org/post/mef280826
- Final Advisory: Chartered accountants and CA firms should not wait until the final date and are advised to complete their MEF submission well in advance of 09 September 2026. Early submission helps avoid last-minute technical issues and ensures sufficient time to verify the details furnished in the form.
ICAI MEF-related queries and complaints:
Applicants’ CA firm may submit concerns via the MEF Complaint Portal: https://app.meficai.org/complaints. Contact numbers for assistance (as per the official announcement):
- Ms. Priya Duggal / Ms. Garima Khurana: 92055 59866
- Mr. Manish Bhardwaj: 92055 59865
After reviewing and addressing all queries and complaints received through the portal, ICAI will forward the final panel to the RBI for their consideration
Rajput Jain & Associates recommends all eligible professionals review their MEF information carefully and utilize the extended timeline effectively to ensure successful empanelment for MEF 2026-27.