Basel II is an international standard that establishes capital requirements for banks to guard against financial and operational risks. It consists of three pillars: minimum capital requirements to cover credit, market and operational risks; supervisory review to ensure adequate capital to cover all risks; and market discipline through disclosure requirements. While Basel II aims to make capital requirements more risk sensitive, Indian banks face challenges in implementing it due to lack of risk management expertise, need for technology investments, and restructuring of non-performing assets. A gradual implementation process will help ensure a smooth transition to the new framework.