Context:
Citi and the State Bank of India (SBI) have launched a $295 million social loan facility aimed at improving financial access for small and marginal farmers. The credit will be routed through SBI’s Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan portfolio, ensuring that rural farmers receive the funds necessary to enhance productivity and income.
Objectives and Scope
- Provide essential credit to farmers with small landholdings
- Empower rural agricultural communities through accessible financial support
- Align with the Government of India’s vision of financial inclusion and rural development
- Encourage investment in improved farming practices and equipment
Key Features of the Collaboration
- Loan structured and facilitated by Citi’s Trade & Working Capital Solutions
- Funds channelled via SBI’s Kisan Credit Card portfolio
- Supports sustainable agricultural practices and economic empowerment
- Focuses on underserved communities that face difficulty in securing formal credit
SBI Share Performance Snapshot (as of April 04, 2025 – 10:10 AM)
- Current trading price: ₹774.75
- Day’s change: Down by 0.57%
- One-month performance: Gained 8.20%
The Citi-SBI social loan facility stands as a transformative step toward democratizing credit in India’s agricultural sector. By combining Citi’s financial innovation with SBI’s expansive rural network, the initiative not only fosters rural economic resilience but also underlines the shared commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.