TFP Bureau, Raipur, May 18, 2025: In a landmark step towards financial inclusion in Naxal-affected regions, a new branch of Indian Overseas Bank was inaugurated today in Jagargunda, Sukma district. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai virtually inaugurated the facility from his residence in Raipur, marking a significant milestone for residents of 12 surrounding villages who will now gain access to formal banking services.
Speaking at the inauguration, Chief Minister Sai said, “This is a historic day for Jagargunda. The area has long suffered due to Naxalism, but under the double engine government, we have made meaningful progress in restoring peace and ensuring development. The establishment of this bank reflects that success.”
Peace and Development Creating Opportunities
The Chief Minister highlighted that the state’s strategy of security, development, and trust is now yielding results in Bastar. “Due to joint efforts by the Centre and the State, and continuous security operations, villages in Bastar are gradually overcoming Naxal dominance and entering the mainstream,” he said.
He also recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to expanding banking access across all Gram Panchayats. In line with that vision, 1,460 Atal Panchayat Digital Seva Kendras have already been launched across the state, offering villagers basic banking services, among others. “This facility will be expanded to every Gram Panchayat within a year,” Sai added.
From Conflict to Connectivity
Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary, who was present in Jagargunda, recounted how difficult it once was to even think of entering the interior region. “Back in 2001, when I was Collector of Dantewada, there was a Gramin Bank branch here that was nearly looted by Naxalites. Today, that very building now houses an Indian Overseas Bank branch – this transformation speaks volumes,” he said.
Choudhary also became the first account holder of the new branch, opening his account during the visit. Women Commission member Deepika Sori also inaugurated her account, reinforcing the inclusive message of the event.
The newly launched branch will offer essential services including ATM access. Beneficiaries of schemes such as the Tendu Patta Bonus and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi will now be able to receive their entitlements directly in their local bank accounts.
Wider Participation in Inauguration
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Saw joined the event virtually, while dignitaries including Member of the Chhattisgarh State Women Commission Ms. Deepika Sori, Collector of Sukma Mr. Devesh Kumar Dhruv, District Panchayat CEO Mrs. Namrata Jain, and Regional Bank Manager Mr. Gaurishankar Nayak were present in Jagargunda.
This initiative is being hailed as a critical step in connecting remote regions to the financial mainstream and enabling locals to benefit from government schemes more effectively and securely.
