Cooperative banking firms rendered commendable service in the successful implementation of Operation Kuber which was initiated by the government to crackdown on illegal money lending in the State, said Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala.
He was speaking after inaugurating the distribution of Students’ RuPay Card – a new scheme that helps students to open individual bank accounts and use ATM cards- at the Kozhikode District Cooperative Bank, here, on Monday.
Lauding the ‘pro-common man approach’ of the cooperative banks, Mr. Chennithala said they literally made a difference in offering people-friendly service when their new generation counterparts tried to exploit the clients.
“Only the cooperative banks could adopt such a humane approach to the needy,” he said.
According to Mr. Chennithala, the number of people who approached the cooperative banks for their financial needs has increased in the State with the crackdown on loan sharks.
The police will continue their drive against the illegal players in the sector, he said.
KDC bank officials who explained the features of the new account and the Rupay Card service said it would help students above the age of 10 to enjoy most of the banking services, including internet banking and debit card facility in an easy way.
The special account can be opened at just Rs.100.
Also cheque book will be provided to those having a minimum balance of Rs.500, they said.
Of the 800 new bank accounts opened under the scheme, 200 account holders received their ATM cards at the function.
Manayath Chandran, president of KDC Bank, presided over the programme.
Lead Bank Manager K. Bhuvandas released the official brochure of the Students’ RuPay card.
