Pradhan mantri jan dhan yojana: Roadblock in Uttarakhand

Since its launch, 723,000 people have opened their accounts in various banks so far

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has hit a roadblock in Uttarakhand because of severe connectivity problems in parts of the state. Geographical conditions are not conducive for communication and connectivity in the state.

Since its launch on August 28, 723,000 people have opened their accounts in various banks so far. But now public sector banks involved in the scheme are facing problems in permeating to unbanked areas. According to one estimate, nearly 60 per cent of the land in Uttarakhand has not been covered by banks, owing to a low population density and tough geographical conditions.

"There is a severe connectivity problem in our state due to which PMJDY has hit a roadblock," said Astha Luthra, additional secretary (finance).

In view of the problem, the target of completing the financial inclusion under the scheme has already been extended till 2017 in the state, Luthra said.

Sanjay Aggarwal, chairman of Uttarakhand Gramin Bank, said the connectivity was poor in the state. "This is a severe problem," he said.

Of the total 2050 unbanked areas in the state, 1365 have no or low connectivity.

Luthra says a series of review meetings have already been held with senior Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) officials to provide connectivity in the state.

Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) has been given the task of setting up special purpose vehicle to provide connectivity through optic fibre in six districts covering 28 blocks.

Another problem that has plagued the scheme is of duplication. Senior bank officials said people were opening multiple accounts under PMJDY.