Do socially backward individuals in Bengal face hurdles in accessing institutional loans?
Synopsis
A recent study reveals that individuals from socially backward classes in West Bengal, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and OBCs, struggle to secure institutional loans, with only six percent of the total loans granted to them. This report highlights the ongoing financial disparities faced by these communities.
Key Takeaways
Socially backward classes face significant barriers in accessing loans.
Only 6% of total loans in West Bengal are granted to these communities.
A total of 15,12,216 socially backward individuals received loans.
The CD ratio improved to 70.59% as of September 2025.
Negative trends in loan access were noted in several districts.
Kolkata, Dec 21 (NationPress) Individuals from the socially backward class in West Bengal, encompassing those belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and the Other Backward Class (OBC), still encounter significant barriers to obtaining institutional loans, as highlighted by a report from a bankers' organization.
In the first half of the financial year 2025-26, the total amount of institutional loans disbursed in West Bengal reached Rs 48,08,752.02 crore, with only Rs 29,654.03 crore allocated to the socially backward classes.
This indicates that a mere six percent of the loans provided during this period were directed towards individuals from the socially backward classes.
Regarding the recipients of these loans, the representation from the socially backward groups was minimal compared to the overall number of loan beneficiaries. During the same timeframe, only 15,12,216 individuals from the socially backward classes received loans out of 64,07,678 total recipients.
Thus, this demographic accounted for just 23 percent of the total loan recipients.
This data was presented at the recent gathering of the State Level Bankers' Committee (SLBC) in West Bengal, which includes representatives from the banks operating in the region as well as the state government. The minutes from this meeting are accessible through IANS.
However, a positive note was that the credit to deposit (CD) ratio in West Bengal as of September 30, 2025, showed a notable improvement compared to the same period last year.
The CD ratio was recorded at 70.59 percent as of September 30, 2025, in contrast to 69.88 percent on September 30, 2024. Nonetheless, a downward trend in the CD ratio was noted in districts such as Birbhum, Kolkata, Malda, and Purulia.
Amit Mitra, former finance minister of West Bengal and the current chief economic advisor to the state, has urged district managers in these areas to take prompt corrective actions.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the systemic barriers faced by socially backward communities in accessing financial resources. This situation underscores the need for inclusive banking practices that ensure equal opportunities for all individuals, irrespective of their social standing. A balanced approach is essential for fostering economic growth and empowering these marginalized groups.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of institutional loans are granted to socially backward classes in West Bengal?
Only six percent of the total institutional loans are granted to socially backward classes in West Bengal.
How many individuals from socially backward classes received loans in the latest report?
A total of 15,12,216 individuals from socially backward classes received loans, out of 64,07,678 total recipients.
What is the credit to deposit (CD) ratio in West Bengal as of September 2025?
The CD ratio in West Bengal stood at 70.59 percent as of September 30, 2025.
Which districts showed a negative trend in CD ratios?
The districts of Birbhum, Kolkata, Malda, and Purulia exhibited a negative trend in CD ratios.
Who is Amit Mitra and what is his stance on the loan situation?
Amit Mitra is the former finance minister and the current chief economic advisor to the West Bengal government. He has called for immediate remedial measures by district managers to address the loan access issues.
