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The true realisation of financial inclusion in India hinges a lot on how Bank Mitras are effectively channelised. With Covid-19 second wave spreading to rural India, the role of a Bank Mitra has assumed more significance.

Bank Mitras can help citizens get seamless access to financial services in these difficult times.

A recent tweet by Debasish Panda, Secretary of Department Financial Services applauding their role and instructing states and UTs to vaccinate them on priority sends the right signal in these trying times.

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused immense devastation and it is imperative to boost the morale of those who are trying their best to alleviate the woes of those at the bottom of the pyramid.

Bank Mitras are those brave men and women around the country who are bringing banking facilities to people. Their safety needs to be assured as they will have to tackle the danger of high exposure.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana programme’s implementation has also been successful due to the tireless efforts of the Bank Mitras.

Many bank customers in small towns and villages, especially senior citizens, are not accustomed to using the latest digital services being offered by the banks. Bank Mitras can play a stirring role in spreading awareness about the need to switch to digital modes of payment.

With a third wave lurking, the authorities must ensure that they are vaccinated on priority. Mitigating disruption related to DBT payments and ensuring uninterrupted delivery of banking services should be the aim.

The banking sector has done well to tackle Covid-led disruptions, providing the backbone to many essential activities. The evolution of Bank Mitras is now showing results and has provided the impetus that was badly needed at the grassroots level.

From mere foot soldiers, they have successfully transitioned to Covid warriors.