Mandi (Munish Sood)
The Mandi Literacy and Public Development Committee, a prominent grassroots-level voluntary organisation, has once again demonstrated excellence in delivering impactful initiatives.
As part of the Financial Inclusion Programme (2019-2024) initiated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), financial literacy centres (CFL Centres) are being established at the block level across the country.
In this nationwide endeavour, the Mandi Literacy and Public Development Committee has achieved 100% of its targets, securing the top position in Himachal Pradesh.
Statewide programme implementation
In Himachal Pradesh, the programme is being implemented with the support of multiple organisations. The Mandi Literacy and Public Development Committee is responsible for executing the initiative in Mandi, Hamirpur and Kullu districts, while three other organisations manage the remaining districts.
The committee has made significant progress by reaching 2,63,358 individuals through its CFL Centres. Key achievements include:
- 8,126 new savings accounts opened.
- 1,410 dormant accounts reactivated.
- 54,714 individuals enrolled in social security schemes.
- 1,599 individuals assisted in securing loans.
- 1,638 individuals linked to pension schemes.
- 5,667 ATM cards distributed.
- 1,463 individuals enrolled in other government schemes.
- 41,465 individuals connected to digital transaction platforms.
Recognition for excellence
Bhim Singh, general secretary of the Mandi Literacy and Public Development Committee, highlighted that the organisation has already completed 77% of the project’s target for the period from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024. During a review meeting held by RBI-Shimla on January 13, the committee’s exemplary performance was recognised, earning it the first position in the state.
Bhim Singh affirmed the committee’s commitment to ensuring eligible individuals benefit from government schemes and financial services. He also revealed the ambitious goal of reaching 3,50,000 individuals by December 2025, with plans to link more people to these beneficial schemes.
Operational Framework
As part of this initiative, CFL Centres have been established in nine locations:
- Mandi district: Mandi Sadar, Balh, Gohar, Gopalpur, and Churag.
- Kullu district: Nagar and Anni.
- Hamirpur district: Hamirpur and Bhoranj.
Each centre is staffed by a chief coordinator, two assistant coordinators, and a data operator. These teams conduct awareness camps at the village and panchayat levels, educating people on financial literacy and the benefits of various government schemes.
Focus areas of financial literacy
The awareness camps provide detailed information about:
- Social security schemes: Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana, and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.
- Financial aid and loans: Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Student Loan Scheme.
- Banking tools: Kisan Credit Cards, ATM cards, Debit and RuPay cards, and online transaction platforms.
- Fraud prevention: Guidance on identifying and avoiding online fraud.
- Savings and pension plans: Various schemes launched by banks and the government.
