This Diwali, State Bank of India (SBI) is turning up the festive cheer with a special offer for its customers. If you hold an SBI savings or current account linked to Aadhaar, you’re automatically entered into a lucky draw to win up to ₹3,00,000. Beyond the fun, this campaign also nudges account-holders to complete Aadhaar seeding — boosting security, enabling faster benefits access, and helping simplify banking.
What’s the SBI Diwali Lucky Draw All About?
SBI’s Diwali initiative rewards Aadhaar-linked account holders with a chance to win big, while also encouraging greater use of Aadhaar-linked banking. It’s part of SBI’s broader push toward digitally enabled, secure financial services.
Eligibility Criteria for the ₹3 Lakh Diwali Draw
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Account Type | Must be an SBI savings or current account |
| Aadhaar Linkage | The account must be seeded with Aadhaar (i.e., your Aadhaar number must already be linked) |
| Account Status | The account must be active and unrestricted during the festival period |
| Entries Allowed | One entry per eligible Aadhaar-linked account — having multiple accounts does not mean more entries |
| Other Conditions | The bank will announce official draw dates; only those who meet all criteria will qualify |
Myths vs Facts
| Fact | Myth / Rumour |
|---|---|
| Only Aadhaar-linked SBI accounts are eligible | Claims that non-linked SBI accounts automatically enter are false |
| Winners’ prize money will be credited to their accounts | Rumours of courier delivery of cash, or third-party app-based payout, are false |
| Each eligible account receives exactly one entry | It’s not about more accounts = more chances |
| SBI will officially announce the draw and winners | Viral claims about early winners or “leaked results” are unverified |
How to Link Aadhaar with Your SBI Account
Linking your Aadhaar — if not already linked — is relatively quick and can be done via multiple channels:
- SBI Branch
Fill and submit an Aadhaar seeding form, along with a self-attested copy of your Aadhaar. Bank staff may ask to verify your original Aadhaar. - SBI YONO / YONO Lite App
- Log in → Services / Service Requests → Manage Profile → Aadhaar Linking
- Submit your Aadhaar number and confirm
- You’ll receive confirmation via SMS.
- Internet Banking (OnlineSBI)
- Login → “My Accounts” → “Link Your Aadhaar Number”
- Choose your SBI account, enter Aadhaar, and submit
- The process in many cases is instantaneous or takes just a few hours / days.
- ATM (SBI ATMs)
- Use your debit card and PIN
- Choose Service Registration → Aadhaar Registration
- Enter Aadhaar, confirm entry
- The request will be processed by the bank.
- SMS (if mobile number is registered with bank)
- Send:
UID <space> Aadhaar Number <space> SBI Account Number - Send to: 567676
- You’ll get confirmation via SMS.
- Send:
Tip: Make sure your Aadhaar details (name, address, date of birth) exactly match what SBI has in its records — mismatches cause rejection.
Important Deadlines & Dates
- Linking Deadline: You should complete Aadhaar seeding before the festive period to qualify.
- Draw Date / Result Announcement: SBI will officially share draw dates and publish results. Prize amounts will be credited directly to winners’ accounts.
Why SBI Encourages Aadhaar Linking — Beyond the Draw
- Direct Benefits / Subsidies
Government schemes (e.g. LPG subsidy, pension, scholarships) often use Aadhaar-seeded accounts for seamless Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). - KYC Compliance & Account Validity
Aadhaar seeding helps meet regulatory KYC norms, reducing risk of account deactivation or restrictions. - Security & Fraud Mitigation
Aadhaar-based authentication (e-KYC, AePS) reduces fraud and identity misuse. - Better Banking Experience
Faster transactions, streamlined services, fewer document hassles. - Nationwide Reach & Inclusion
Platforms like Bharat Aadhaar Seeding Enabler (BASE) let you check seeding status or move Aadhaar linkage across banks.
Quick Snapshot: SBI Diwali 2025 Lucky Draw
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prize Amount | Up to ₹3,00,000 |
| Eligible Accounts | Aadhaar-linked SBI savings or current accounts |
| Entry | One per eligible account |
| How Entry Happens | Automatically, once Aadhaar is linked |
| Linking Methods | Branch, YONO / Internet Banking, ATM, SMS |
| Prize Delivery | Credited directly into winners’ SBI accounts |
| Draw Announcement | Publicly by SBI (date to be declared) |
| Deadline | Before festive period begins |
Celebrate Safely & Smartly — Don’t Miss Out!
This Diwali, SBI’s ₹3 lakh lucky draw is a great opportunity to combine festive excitement with long-term banking benefits. If you haven’t yet seeded your Aadhaar, now’s the time. Check your account status, link Aadhaar correctly, and stay tuned for official announcements. Wishing you a prosperous, secure, and rewarding Diwali