Kharu, Nov 10: A mass awareness programme on Financial Literacy and Inclusion was held at the Shaitan Singh Memorial Auditorium Hall, Kharu, on Monday, aiming to empower local residents with knowledge of modern banking and financial welfare schemes.
The event was organised by the Lead District Manager (LDM) Office, Leh, in collaboration with the SDM Office Kharu, various banks, and the Crisil Foundation. It saw enthusiastic participation from villagers, PRI members, Nambardars, officials from line departments, and representatives from J&K Bank, PNB, SBI, and the Centre for Financial Literacy (CFL).
Addressing the gathering, LDM Ms. Stanzin Dolkar said the programme sought to bridge the gap between financial institutions and the public. She highlighted key topics including digital payments, prevention of cyber frauds, social security schemes, insurance, and self-employment loans such as PMEGP, KCC, and MUDRA.
Mr. Phuntsok Angchuk from SBI Kharu gave insights into credit facilities available to farmers and entrepreneurs, while Ms. Padma Ladol of PNB elaborated on social security and pension schemes like PMSBY, PMJJBY, and APY. A short film showcasing the importance of insurance and cyber safety was also screened.
Mr. Kifayat Hussain, Manager of the CFL Project (Crisil Foundation), spoke on the Banking Ombudsman mechanism and rising incidents of cybercrime, urging people to stay vigilant and financially aware.
BDO Kharu, Ms. Kunzang Dolma, and Naib Tehsildar, Mr. Mohd Rahulla, lauded the initiative and assured full support for future outreach programmes.
The event was coordinated by CFL Kharu staff and Area Manager Mr. Bilal Bhat, with logistical assistance from the SDM Office Kharu and the Indian Army, Kharu Station.
The Crisil Foundation, empanelled by the RBI and NABARD, is implementing the Moneywise Centre for Financial Literacy (CFL) Project in Ladakh, covering all 16 blocks of Leh district under the supervision of the Lead District Manager, Leh.
