Financial Inclusion in North India: Status and Insights

Abstract

In India, financial inclusion has always been a major focus of the government and central bank through their various related schemes. This study is an attempt to analyze the level of financial inclusion in north India. Broad parameters of financial inclusion have been identified through detailed literature review, namely, banking, borrowing and insurance in the educated sections of the society. The foremost reason for the low levels of financial inclusion, as revealed by the study, is lack of awareness. The populace has a highly negative perception about ease and availability of banking services, loans and insurance. This study might be valuable to policy makers and bankers as it highlights the fact that government schemes related to financial inclusion may be implemented more effectively by creating greater levels of awareness.