Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts might be financially backward, but post demonetisation, they have surged ahead of other districts in the use of technology, according to officials.
Online transactions have picked up in small and medium business establishments, thanks to the constant efforts of the government in association with the banks. About 3,000 e-PoS machines have been supplied in the last three months in both the districts, according to officials. The use of the machines has become a common phenomenon in many shops, thanks to their abundant supply from the government. Traders are approaching the banks to get them.
Training programme
PM Irfanulla, a computer training institute head of Vizianagaram, said a majority of youngsters were keen on doing transactions through the e-PoS machines and online. “We conducted a training programme to enable youngsters to understand the benefits of cashless transactions. Now, they are helping parents and others in downloading relevant wallets such as the BHIM App, SBI Buddy and others for their small payments,” he added.
Srikakulam Lead Bank Manager Potluri Venkateswara Rao told The Hindu that the banks had supplied over 600 new e-PoS machines recently. “We are trying to supply e-PoS machines which would recognise the thumb impression and ensure payments quickly. People don’t need to carry passbooks, cheque books, debit and credit cards for withdrawal in future. Their Aadhaar-linked thumb impressions will be sufficient for all transactions hereafter,” he added.
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development’s District Development Manager M.D. Vasudevan said the government would provide subsidy on purchase of e-PoS machines. “The government is trying to supply more number of Aadhaar-linked e-PoS machines at subsidised price. All the nationalised banks in Srikakulam have placed orders for the new machines.”
The Commercial Taxes Department has also sought the bankers’ cooperation for their early supply in 72 mandals of both districts. It was estimated that more than 30,000 new machines were needed. Each machine might cost below ₹2,000, according to officials.
