Patna: Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Wednesday called on the State Bank of India (SBI) to increase Bihar’s Credit-Deposit (CD) ratio and expand institutional lending to farmers, industries and startups, saying access to finance would be central to the state’s economic growth.
The Chief Minister was addressing the 71st Bank Day celebrations organised by the SBI Patna Circle at Gyan Bhawan in Patna, where he inaugurated the event by lighting a ceremonial lamp.
Call To Expand Institutional Lending
Congratulating SBI on completing 71 years, Choudhary wished the institution continued success and expressed hope that it would continue contributing to Bihar’s development for decades to come.
He urged the bank to work towards raising the state’s Credit-Deposit ratio to 100%, while assuring bankers that the government would support efforts to improve loan recovery.
The Chief Minister also appealed to banks to expand institutional credit for farmers and ensure that the benefits of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme reach a larger number of beneficiaries.
He said the banking sector’s cooperation would be essential for strengthening Bihar’s industrial ecosystem and supporting new business ventures.
Banking And Digital Growth
Referring to the expansion of banking services in recent years, Choudhary said India had emerged as a global leader in digital payments, with widespread adoption of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
He also highlighted the role of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana in bringing millions of people into the formal banking system.
According to the Chief Minister, interaction between entrepreneurs and financial institutions would play a key role in promoting industries, startups and economic development.
Infrastructure Plans
Choudhary also outlined several infrastructure initiatives planned by the state government.
He said construction of two Marine Drive corridors—an 83-kilometre stretch between Munger and Bhagalpur and a 39-kilometre stretch from Digha to Koilwar—is targeted for completion within the next three years under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.
The Chief Minister added that the government is developing 12 new townships across Bihar, involving an estimated investment of Rs 1 lakh crore.
He said the state would continue seeking low-interest financing for public infrastructure projects while remaining accountable for the efficient use of public funds.
SBI Marks 71 Years
During the programme, SBI Patna Circle Chief General Manager Anurag Joshi welcomed the Chief Minister by presenting him with a sapling, a traditional angavastra and a memento.
The event was attended by MLA Maithili Thakur, Chief Minister’s Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh, Patna District Magistrate Kundan Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikeya K. Sharma, SBI Ladies Club (Patna) President Pooja Joshi, and senior SBI officials and staff.
