Majority of tribal population in the district is now literate and aware of the niceties of financial transactions, with bank accounts in their names, thanks to initiatives by NABARD and non-governmental organisations.
They know the niceties of banking transactions, thanks to efforts of banking correspondents from nationalised banks. Though illiterate, many of them are good at earning through government initiatives like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme.
“Bank account is a boon to tribal people, as they get pensions, NREGA aid and other benefits through banks. No one can cheat them. We are also enlightening them on benefits such as insurance and overdraft facilities,” NABARD Assistant General Manager M.D. Vasudevan said. The tribal people were left out of the Centre’s ambitious Jan-Dhan programme, and that made NABARD promote financial literacy programmes with the support of the NGO, Action in Rural Technology and Service (ARTS).
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ARTS director Nuka Sanyasi Rao said cultural troupes had been roped in to promote financial literacy among tribal people through songs and skits. “Many tribals are depending on private lenders who normally charge high interest rates on loans. We tell them that banks offer soft loans at nominal interest rates if they regularly do transactions. It has also made them come forward and open accounts,” he added. The financial inclusion programme has created awareness among people at Polla, Mekava, Goidi, Dhonubhai and K. Veeraghattam. The troupes will also tour Palakonda and Veeraghattam mandals.