Hyderabad, June 24 (UNI) Union Minister and Telangana BJP President G Kishan Reddy on Monday emphasised the rapid expansion of banking services in Telangana and called for immediate action on the pending farmer loan waivers in the state.
He was addressing the media after participating in the Telangana State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC) meeting held at the MCR HRD Institute.
Reddy said that the meeting focused on several important issues, including the implementation of Central Government welfare schemes in Telangana.
He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, banking infrastructure in the state has significantly expanded. While the number of bank branches in 2014 stood at around 6,000, nearly 600 new branches have been added since then. He also highlighted the strengthening of the banking correspondent system, with over 80,931 correspondents currently operating across rural Telangana to provide direct banking access to the people.
He said three major banks—State Bank of India (SBI), Union Bank of India, and Canara Bank—are serving as lead banks in different districts and are playing a key role in implementing Central schemes and disbursing loans at the district level.
Kishan Reddy stated that clear awareness campaigns are needed for students seeking education loans, individuals planning to construct houses, farmers eligible for Kisan Credit Cards, and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) experiencing delays in loan disbursement.
Special focus will also be given to increasing awareness about financial assistance available to small entrepreneurs in the MSME sector. The Minister added that schemes such as Vishwakarma Yojana, Mudra Yojana, and loans for street vendors should be brought closer to the people. He said that all bank branches have been directed to provide loans to at least one SC or ST beneficiary and one woman borrower each year.
He pointed out that in 2013–14, the total agricultural loans in Telangana stood at Rs 27,676 crore, which has now increased to Rs 1,37,346 crore in 2024–25, reflecting the Central Government's strong support for farmers in the state.
However, he expressed concern over the delay in implementing the Rs 2 lakh loan waiver promised by the Congress-led state government. He mentioned that despite around 15,000 eligible farmers being identified in Telangana Gramin Bank, funds have not yet been deposited into their accounts. He said this highlights the state government’s failure in delivering on its promise.
Kishan Reddy also noted that a large number of farmers who have taken agricultural loans below Rs 1 lakh are still awaiting waiver benefits. He urged the state government to immediately gather data from respective banks and ensure timely implementation of the waiver scheme.
The meeting resolved to coordinate with state officials to expedite the loan waiver process and hold regular review meetings to monitor progress and ensure effective delivery of services to the people.
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