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Finance Minister Reviews Karnataka Grameena Bank’s Performance in Ballari
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman reviewed the performance of Karnataka Grameena Bank at its Head Office in Ballari. The review highlighted the vital role of regional rural banks in driving financial inclusion and strengthening rural India’s economic foundation.
Author: V.Gayathri
Published: 13 hours ago
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Finance Minister’s Review Meeting
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Hon’ble Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Government of India, chaired a review meeting of Karnataka Grameena Bank (KGB) on 16th October 2025 at Ballari.The meeting was attended by Shri M. Nagaraju, Secretary, Department of Financial Services (DFS), Chairman of NABARD, Executive Director of Canara Bank, and other senior officials.
During the review, the Finance Minister emphasised that rural India has entered a new phase of growth and is becoming a catalyst for inclusive development. She advised KGB to align its products and services with the evolving needs of villages in Karnataka.
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Image - Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman chairing the review meeting of KGB in Ballari.
Focus on Rural Growth and Partnerships
The Finance Minister highlighted that the rationalisation of GST rates has created new opportunities in rural areas due to increased consumption. She encouraged KGB to seize this opportunity by strengthening its credit support, especially for branches in semi-urban and rural regions.
She further urged the bank to collaborate with Public Sector Banks (PSBs) to extend suitable products and meet the aspirations of rural communities striving for inclusive growth.
Collaboration with Farmer Producer Organisations
Smt. Sitharaman also underlined the importance of close collaboration between KGB and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
By assessing the working capital needs of FPOs and understanding their product cycles, the bank can help enhance productivity while contributing to the sustainable growth of Karnataka’s rural economy.
Digital Transformation and Rural Empowerment
Recognising the rapid technological shift in rural areas, the Finance Minister encouraged KGB to upgrade its digital offerings to serve customers efficiently. She stressed that technology-driven rural banking can accelerate India’s journey toward becoming a Viksit Bharat.
Image - AIRRBEA leaders meet the Hon’ble Finance Minister and present a commemorative postal cover marking RRBs’ Golden Jubilee.
AIRRBEA Delegation Meets the Finance Minister
On the same occasion, leaders from the All India Regional Rural Bank Employees Association (AIRRBEA) met the Finance Minister Invigilators Bungalow and briefed her on the Golden Jubilee Year Celebrations of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs).
They presented a commemorative postal cover and requested her to be the Chief Guest for the proposed Golden Jubilee Celebration in New Delhi.
A written representation was also submitted, proposing the issue of a Commemorative Coin and Postal Stamp in the name of RRBs. The Minister received the submission positively and advised follow-up through official channels. Additionally, AIRRBEA sought exemption of GST on premiums paid by senior citizens and retired staff toward group medical insurance.
Image - The AIRRBEA members who met the Finance Minister
The Hon’ble Minister appreciated KGB’s efforts in effectively implementing social security schemes across rural Karnataka.
The review meeting and interaction underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening rural banking and digital inclusion. With renewed focus on partnerships, technology, and financial empowerment, KGB continues to play a pivotal role in advancing India’s inclusive growth agenda.
During the meet, GS, Treasurer of National Federation of Regional Rural Bank Officers (NFRRBO), Vice President National Federation of Regional Rural Bank Employees (NFRRBE), National Federation of Retired Regional Rural Bank Staff (NFRRRBS), All India CC members, President, GS, Treasurers, Regional Secretary (Ballari), other office bearers and CC members of Karnataka Grameena Bank Employees’ Union – Officers’ Association (KAGBEU-OA) & representatives of AKGBEF were present.
[Courtesy for information and images - Kirthiraj Hidkal, General Secretary, NFRRBO]kal, General Secretary, NFRRBO]
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