Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired a credit outreach programme in Darbhanga, Bihar, on Friday, where loans amounting to ₹1,388 crore were distributed to 49,137 beneficiaries by various banks, as per an official statement from the Ministry of Finance.
Key Highlights
- Loan Disbursement: The programme witnessed the distribution of loans to beneficiaries under financial inclusion schemes.
- Participation of Dignitaries: Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary attended the event alongside Sitharaman.
- Local Products Showcase: Sitharaman visited 25 stalls displaying local products and handicrafts by entrepreneurs supported by banks and NABARD.
- Constitution Copies Distribution: The Finance Minister distributed copies of the Constitution in Maithili and Sanskrit to distinguished citizens.
- CSR Initiatives: Sitharaman flagged off an ambulance, distributed tricycles to disabled individuals, and announced funding for rural roads and school infrastructure improvements.
NABARD and Bank Initiatives
- NABARD announced a sanction of over ₹74 crore for rural road projects.
- Banks and SIDBI contributed to CSR activities focused on improving school infrastructure, especially for girls.
New Branches and Centres Inaugurated
The Union Minister inaugurated:
- Five new branches of the State Bank of India (SBI).
- 25 BC Maxx Centres of the Central Bank of India, aimed at expanding banking access in rural areas.
Statements from Leaders
Chirag Paswan thanked Sitharaman for her visit, commending her focus on regional development. Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary lauded the Prime Minister and Sitharaman for their contributions to Bihar’s economic growth.
RRBs Review Meeting in Patna
Earlier in the day, Sitharaman chaired a review meeting with Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) from the Eastern Belt in Patna, emphasizing the importance of rural banking and financial inclusion.
Conclusion
The outreach programme underscored the government’s commitment to fostering financial inclusion and regional development. With the distribution of loans and infrastructure investments, the event marked a significant step toward the economic growth of Darbhanga and surrounding areas.