Kirana Stores in Assam Offer Banking Services to 40,000 Customers in Flood-affected Villages

MUMBAI:
In a big relief effort, the residents of flood-devastated Assam have now received a lifeline as Business Correspondents (BCs) of PayNearby, India’s leading digital payments and largest branchless banking network, are now sailing on boats to offer essential banking and financial services to the population of the flood-stricken villages. With the aid of Micro ATM and Aadhaar ATM, they are helping citizens across 265 flood-hit villages to avail cash withdrawal services.

For a population of over three crores, the floods have considerably impacted the economy of Assam, affecting more than 31.54 lakhs in 26 districts. During these times, the citizens have little to no access to services or even cash on hand to consider buying necessities. In difficult times, the BC network in India, a large percentage of which is registered with PayNearby, has been crucial in ensuring that the general public’s access to essential financial services is not interrupted and made available at their doorsteps.

PayNearby’s network of over 20,000+ retail partners in Assam is putting its best foot forward to serve as the cash disbursal points. These retailers commute on foot or in small boats, converting them into cash points, equipped with AePS biometric devices and Micro ATMs to provide cash to the underprivileged in the affected areas.

Speaking on the relief work, Anand Kumar Bajaj, Founder, MD & CEO, PayNearby, said, “It is a tough time for the citizens of Assam. Reaching out to their doorsteps and aiding them with cash is the need of the hour. Our retail partners are at the forefront, ensuring that people in these areas have uninterrupted access to cash to endure the flood and its aftermath. More than 40,000 villagers have used the service, withdrawing around 20 crores.”

“As an organization founded on the principle of service backed by cutting-edge technology and innovation, we have always believed in utilizing technology for addressing the unmet needs of the last mile. The relief work done by our foot soldiers in Assam against all odds is in sync with our motto to serve unabated at all times. We feel privileged to be able to contribute towards the relief efforts and are working hard to make sure that all transactions are completed successfully. Our commitment to stand with the country and bring last mile uninterrupted service to all remains stronger than ever”