Nabard to help introduce CBS in 4 district co-op banks

To face competition from regional rural banks and scheduled commercial banks, Nabard plans to help introduce core banking solutions (CBS) to four district central co-operative banks in Karnataka.

The four districts identified are Kodagu, Kanara, Chikmagalur and Bijapur. Tata Consultancy Services is the technology provider in Karnataka. The four banks signed agreements with TCS on Tuesday.

According to Mr S.N.A. Jinnah, Chief General Manager, Nabard, “We are to play the role of an advisor and facilitator in the process and extend project management support during the roll out of the CBS.”

“By this, we ensure that the interests of the banks are protected throughout the implementation process,” he added.

Nabard had initiated the demand for adoption of CBS from DCCBs all over the country before negotiating with the technology provider, which has facilitated cost effectiveness.

Mr Jinnah hoped that this initiative strengthens co-operative banking in the State and will augur well for the future of these banks in their march towards adoption of high tech banking.

Cooperative banks with their technology can be the most suitable agency in financial inclusion, he added.

Mr S.G. Hegde, Karnataka Registrar of Cooperative Societies, assured support of the State Government to the project aimed at taking the cooperative banks to the higher level of technology.

Mr K.H. Ashwathanarayana Gowda, CEO, KSCAB, complemented the banks and thanked Nabard for the technological initiative. Dr Manjunath Hegde, Director, Kanara DCCB, Dr K.V. Nagaraju, General Manager and other senior officers were present.

anil.u@thehindu.co.in