In a significant boost to financial inclusion, Jessami Block- Ukhrul District, Manipur has secured its first formal banking outlet with the inauguration of the Jessami Branch of State Bank of India (SBI), the only bank in the block. Until now, residents had to travel nearly 5-6 hours to access basic banking services.
The branch was virtually inaugurated today by Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, Chairman of State Bank of India, marking a milestone in expanding institutional banking access to this remote region.
The ceremony was attended P. Duna Duo (MCS), ADM/SDO Jessami, representing the district administration. Senior SBI officials present included Lohuo Besii, Chief Manager (Operations), SBI RBO Imphal East; John Monsang, Chief Manager, SBI Ukhrul and Jessami Branch Manager Singchui Kharay.
Addressing the gathering, P. Duna Duo appreciated SBI and the State Government for advancing inclusive banking infrastructure in this part of Manipur. He also acknowledged the roles of former Deputy Commissioner Kengoo Zuringla (IAS) and the present Deputy Commissioner Asish Das (IAS) in facilitating the necessary administrative support to operationalise the branch. He further thanked all individuals who worked behind the scenes, from handling paperwork to coordinating with offices, and pursuing the matter consistently, ensuring that the branch was finally established.
He urged residents to make full use of banking services and promote savings discipline to support local economic growth. Highlighting customer awareness and facilities, Lohuo Besii stressed vigilance against cyber fraud and the need for secure banking practices. He informed that all loan products and credit facilities available in nearby branches will also be extended to the Jessami Branch, while advising borrowers to follow the bank’s terms and conditions, especially timely repayment.
Branch Manager Singchui Kharay thanked the residents of Jessami and neighbouring villages for their cooperation during the inauguration. He appealed for continued public support in mobilising new account openings and transfers to strengthen the branch’s CASA base, assuring sincere efforts to deliver quality financial services and gradually upgrade the branch.
Community leaders Ayekkwete Wezah, Chairman of Jessami Village Council, and Asset Wezah, Secretary, also conveyed their gratitude to the ADM/SDO Jessami for the assistance, and to the SBI officials for establishing the branch.
The opening of the Jessami Branch, after sustained representations for the last many years, marks a critical step toward improving financial access for small entrepreneurs and farmers and strengthening the economic resilience of Jessami Block.
