Mumbai, April 1: The Government has made remarkable strides in enhancing financial inclusion nationwide. Currently, 99.92% of villages have access to a banking outlet within a 5-kilometre radius. This includes various banking facilities such as bank branches, Business Correspondents (BCs), and India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) services. Notably, the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli has achieved complete coverage, ensuring that all villages are served within the specified distance as of March 6, 2026.
GIS-Based Monitoring Through JDD App
The availability of banking infrastructure is being tracked through a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based platform called the Jan Dhan Darshak (JDD) App. Data uploaded by banks on this application allows for real-time monitoring and evaluation of banking access in rural and remote areas, according to the Finance Ministry.
Full Coverage in Dadra and Nagar Haveli
“According to data uploaded by banks on the JDD App, 99.92% of villages in the country and 100% of villages in the UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are covered by banking outlets (Bank Branch / BC / IPPB) within a 5-kilometre radius as of March 6, 2026,” stated an official announcement from the Ministry of Finance on March 30, 2026.
“The Government’s aim is to ensure that every inhabited village in the country has access to a banking outlet (Bank branch / Business Correspondent (BC) / India Post Payments Bank (IPPB)) within 5 kilometres,” the Ministry added.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Remain Key Hurdles
Despite these advancements, challenges persist in further expanding banking infrastructure. Major obstacles include insufficient connectivity, lack of supporting infrastructure, and the unavailability of suitable locations for establishing outlets in certain areas.
Ongoing Expansion Guided by RBI Norms
According to the guidelines set by the Reserve Bank of India, the expansion of banking services in underserved regions is a continuous effort. This process is managed by State Level Bankers’ Committees (SLBCs) and Union Territory Level Bankers’ Committees (UTLBCs), in collaboration with state governments, banks, and other stakeholders. Banks assess proposals for new outlets based on regulatory standards, business strategies, and commercial feasibility, often conducting field surveys prior to making final decisions.
This information was shared by Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, in the Lok Sabha on March 30, 2026.
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