The banking industry is again going to come together today to celebrate the annual FE India's Best Banks awards function today. The awards would felicitate banks and bankers who have made commendable contribution to the Indian banking industry during FY 2008-09 amidst global economic crisis.

The awards would be given by Finance Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee.

The awards were incorporated in the year 1996-97 and have since then treaded along with the banking industry through its rapid transformation phase.

The arena covered in the awards has been widened over the years in order to keep pace with rapidly changing trends and developments and recognise and appreciate new talents in the industry.

Shikha Sharma, CEO & MD, Axis Bank, ranked 2nd among the new generation of private sector banks, said, "I would like to congratulate FE for completing 12 years of the ‘Best Banks Awards' which has grown in reputation and stature right through."

KR Kamath, chairman & managing director, Punjab National Bank confirms, "It is a well deserved recognition of our performance. The bank has got its due. It would keep us on our toes to further improve our performance and retain the position."