(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA)
Chandigarh, India — In a significant move to advance inclusive development and ensure the upliftment of marginalized communities, a Parliamentary Committee on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs and STs) paid a study visit to Chandigarh. The delegation held extensive discussions with the top management of Punjab & Sind Bank, one of India’s prominent public sector banks, to assess the bank’s role and impact in promoting the welfare of SC and ST communities.

The visit underscored the government’s continuing commitment to social equity and financial inclusion, particularly for historically disadvantaged sections of society. The high-level meeting facilitated a constructive exchange of ideas and progress metrics regarding the implementation of welfare schemes, reservation policies in recruitment, and support initiatives for SC/ST entrepreneurs.

Inclusive Banking at the Forefront

During the interaction, the senior leadership of Punjab & Sind Bank presented detailed insights into the bank’s initiatives for empowering SC/ST individuals through various banking services, credit facilities, and employment opportunities. These efforts align with the broader national objective of equitable socio-economic development.

Key highlights included:

* Targeted Lending Programs for SC/ST entrepreneurs under government schemes such as Stand-Up India, PMEGP, and others.
* Reservation in Recruitment in compliance with government norms, with data shared on current SC/ST representation in the bank’s workforce.
* Skill Development and Financial Literacy Camps aimed at building financial awareness and fostering entrepreneurship among youth from marginalized communities.

The Committee expressed appreciation for the efforts made by the bank while also encouraging more proactive outreach to rural and tribal regions. Emphasis was laid on strengthening implementation, transparency, and the measurable impact of various programs.

Leadership’s Commitment to Change

Speaking on the occasion, Punjab & Sind Bank’s top management reaffirmed their dedication to inclusive growth. “Financial institutions have a vital role in driving social transformation. At Punjab & Sind Bank, we are fully committed to supporting the aspirations of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes through accessible and equitable financial services,” a senior executive stated.

The Parliamentary Committee emphasized the need for continuous monitoring, innovation in outreach strategies, and collaboration with local community organizations to ensure that the benefits of banking services reach the grassroots.

This study visit forms part of a series of oversight and consultative initiatives undertaken by the Parliamentary Committee to evaluate the performance of various institutions in implementing constitutional mandates for the welfare of SCs and STs. The dialogue with Punjab & Sind Bank set a positive tone for future partnerships between the government and financial institutions in pursuit of an inclusive, empowered India.

By bridging policy with practice and feedback with forward-looking strategies, such engagements play a pivotal role in realizing the goals of social justice and equal opportunity enshrined in the Indian Constitution.