(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
Sukma, Chhattisgarh:A long wait of 25 years finally came to an end as a branch of the Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) was inaugurated in Jagargunda, a remote and previously conflict-affected area in Sukma district. This marks the restoration of formal banking services in the region for the first time since a Naxal attack in 2001 forced their suspension.

The newly opened branch will provide much-needed banking and ATM facilities to residents of Jagargunda and surrounding villages. It will also ensure the smooth delivery of financial benefits under key government welfare schemes such as the *Mahathari Vandan Yojana*, Tendu Leaf Bonus*, and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, with funds now reaching beneficiaries directly into their accounts.

Chhattisgarh’s Finance Minister, O.P. Choudhary, speaking at the inauguration, said:”I had requested Indian Overseas Bank to open a branch here, and they considered my request. Fifteen years ago, it was unimaginable to reach this place due to the lack of road connectivity — the only way to get here was perhaps by helicopter. When I was the Collector of Jagargunda a decade ago, I had envisioned great potential for the development of this region.”

The establishment of the bank branch is being hailed as a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to bring governance, development, and financial inclusion to remote and previously underserved areas.