Plans Upgrade of Mini Branch Amid Year-Round Tourism Boom
Ganderbal, June 20: With Sonamarg emerging as a year-round tourist destination following improved connectivity and increasing visitor inflow, J&K Bank on Saturday intensified its digital banking outreach by launching a major QR code and cashless payment awareness drive in the scenic resort. The initiative aims to strengthen banking services for traders, hoteliers, transporters and other stakeholders associated with the tourism sector.
The programme witnessed the participation of J&K Bank Zonal Head Layek Ahmad Jan, Cluster Head Syed Irfan, Incharge DAC Nighat, branch managers and members of the Sonamarg Beopar Mandal. During the event, bank officials distributed QR codes, promoted digital payment solutions and interacted with local business owners regarding banking facilities, entrepreneurship schemes and the demand for enhanced banking infrastructure in the area.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Zonal Head Layek Ahmad Jan said Sonamarg’s economic landscape has changed significantly following improved connectivity through strategic infrastructure projects, including the Sonamarg Tunnel and enhanced access towards Zojila and Ladakh.
Jan said the bank is committed to ensuring that every business establishment, irrespective of its size, has access to modern banking facilities.
“We are providing QR codes, POS machines and digital payment gateways to facilitate seamless transactions. Our teams have already conducted several campaigns in the area and today’s drive is among the largest initiatives undertaken so far. We are trying to cover the majority of establishments,” he said.
Highlighting future plans, the Zonal Head said the bank is actively considering the upgradation of the existing mini-branch counter in Sonamarg to cater to the growing financial needs of the region.
“We are exploring the possibility of upgrading the existing counter and enhancing cash transaction facilities so that tourism-related businesses do not face any inconvenience. Improved banking infrastructure will further support tourism growth in the area,” he added.
Jan also urged local youth to take advantage of various government-backed financial assistance schemes being facilitated through J&K Bank.
“The government-sponsored entrepreneurship schemes available in Jammu and Kashmir are unique and offer tremendous opportunities for young entrepreneurs. Our objective is to ensure that youth across Kashmir establish their own ventures and grow them into successful enterprises. The bank is committed to financing genuine projects and supporting aspiring entrepreneurs,” he said.
He appealed to traders, hoteliers and homestay operators to utilise the bank’s digital banking services and business finance facilities.
“Whether it is a QR code, POS machine, current account, hotel project or homestay venture, we have facilities available for everyone. People should come forward and benefit from these services,” Jan said.
Meanwhile, President Beopar Mandal Sonamarg, Furkan Ahmad Shera, welcomed the digital banking initiative and termed it a timely step in view of the increasing volume of online transactions.
During the programme, bank officials also highlighted various employment-generation schemes, including Mission YUVA, PMEGP, MUDRA and other self-employment initiatives.
Local hoteliers present on the occasion appreciated J&K Bank’s role in strengthening banking services in Sonamarg.
