Banks to launch 'Responsible Borrowing Campaign'

Banks and credit information companies are set to launch a Responsible Borrowing Campaign to encourage prudent borrowing and curb bad loans, according to the latest Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Financial Stability Report (FSR). The campaign aims to promote financial discipline and awareness among the youth, as they are increasingly relying on fintech companies for credit needs.

The FSR data reveals that borrowers in the ₹5-10-lakh annual income segment contributed to the largest increase in fresh non-performing assets (NPAs) over the past nine quarters. Banks are discussing the campaign with stakeholders and plan to focus on maintaining financial discipline, improving credit histories, timely payments, and raising awareness about cybersecurity and predatory loan apps.

The campaign will also highlight bank offerings like fixed and recurring deposits. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called on banks to sensitize the youth about the importance of maintaining good credit scores and histories for responsible credit discipline, and proposed a month-long 'Banking for Youth' campaign starting October 2, targeting young citizens aged 16 and above.