J&K Grameen Bank expands its outreach in Ladakh
Leh, Sept 19: In a significant move towards enhancing financial inclusion in the Union Territory of Ladakh, J&K Grameen Bank has inaugurated two new branches in Spituk and Chuchot Yakma, two villages in Leh. The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of prominent officials and local dignitaries.
Dr. Pawan Kotwal (IAS), Advisor to the Lt. Governor of Ladakh, officiated the inauguration, marking a pivotal moment for the region’s banking landscape. The event was attended by Sanjay Gupta, Chairman of J&K Grameen Bank, Neeraj Kumar, General Manager of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Vikas Mittal, General Manager of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), along with other distinguished guests, bank officials, and local customers.
In his address, Chief Guest Dr. Kotwal lauded J&K Grameen Bank for its commitment to expanding its services and praised the bank’s role in fortifying the local economy. He emphasized the crucial role of banking in supporting both everyday transactions and tourism, which is a major economic driver in Ladakh. Dr. Kotwal also underscored the importance of improving telecommunication and connectivity in remote areas, advocating for increased digital transactions and enhanced digital literacy as vital components for sustainable regional growth.
Chairman Sanjay Gupta expressed the bank’s dedication to broadening its outreach in Ladakh, focusing on financial inclusion and community empowerment. He highlighted that the new branches would extend the bank’s services to a larger population, catering to both unserved and underserved communities. Gupta also noted that J&K Grameen Bank offers a diverse range of banking products and services tailored to the needs of the Ladakh region.
Neeraj Kumar from RBI congratulated the bank on its expansion, acknowledging the unique challenges of the region and the positive impact of extending banking services on local developmental initiatives. Vikas Mittal of NABARD discussed the importance of government schemes like PMEGP, NRLM, and KCC AH&F, emphasizing that effective outreach and guidance could enhance participation and improve the livelihoods of Ladakh’s residents.
The ceremony concluded with Mukul Mehta, Head of General Administration Department (GAD) at J&K Grameen Bank, delivering the vote of thanks. He reiterated the bank’s commitment to providing cutting-edge financial products and quality service to the people of Ladakh.
