During the first phase of reforms in the Indian Financial Sector, a need was felt to develop an Institute of Higher Learning, which would also provide the operational service support in Information Technology to Banks and Financial Institutions.

The foundation for induction of Computer Technology in the Indian Banking Sector was laid by Dr. Rangarajan Committee's two reports in the years 1984 and 1989. Both the reports strongly recommended computerisation of banking operations at various levels while suggesting the appropriate architecture.

In the year 1993, the Employees' Unions of Banks signed an agreement with Bank Managements under the auspices of Indian Banks' Association [IBA]. This agreement was a major breakthrough in the introduction of computerised applications and development of communication networks in Banks.

In the following two years, substantial work was done and the top managements realised the urgent need for training, research and development activities in the area of Banking Technology. Banks and Financial Institutions started setting up Technology-based training centres and colleges. However, a need was felt for an Apex Level Institute, which would be the Brain Trust for Banking Technology and Spearhead Technology Absorption in the Indian Banking and Financial Sector.

In the year 1994, the Reserve Bank of India formed a committee on "Technology Upgradation in the Payment Systems". The committee recommended a variety of payment applications which can be implemented with appropriate technology upgradation and development of a reliable communication network.

The committee also suggested setting up of an Information Technology Institute for the purpose of Research and Development as well as Consultancy in the application of technology to the Banking and Financial sector of the country.

As recommended by the Committee, the Institute for Development & Research in Banking Technology [IDRBT] was established by the Reserve Bank of India in March 1996 as an Autonomous Centre for Development and Research in Banking Technology.