Srinagar June 01 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Amitava Chatterjee, has reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to sustainable growth, customer trust, and service excellence. In an exclusive interview with Editor-in-chief of Kashmir News Service (KNS), Chatterjee spoke at length about the bank’s recent profit streak, strategic focus areas, and efforts to rebuild public confidence while expanding financial services across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Chatterjee, who took charge as MD & CEO on December 30' 2024, attributed the bank’s strong financial performance over the past few quarters to improved internal systems, strategic alignment, and resilience. "For the past six to seven quarters, the bank has been aligned in the right direction. Our internal systems have improved significantly, enabling organic and stable growth. Despite challenges in the past, J&K Bank has always demonstrated resilience, and now we are delivering even stronger results in a stable environment," he said.
The MD & CEO emphasized that J&K Bank’s focus remains firmly on core banking activities—mobilizing deposits, lending responsibly, and ensuring strong returns for stakeholders. He added that the bank’s presence in Ladakh and other regions is closely tied to local economies, particularly tourism and agriculture.
Bringing over three decades of experience from the State Bank of India (SBI), Chatterjee said he is working to blend best practices from India’s largest public-sector bank into J&K Bank’s operations. "J&K Bank has tremendous untapped potential. While we have a regional identity, we are exploring more and more national opportunities by leveraging our presence in 20 other states and UTs. The goal is to adapt proven models to our unique customer base," he said.
Chatterjee also highlighted the bank’s focus on financial inclusion and supporting key sectors like agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and micro-enterprises. He described J&K Bank as an economic enabler, working in tandem with the UT Government to strengthen the region’s financial ecosystem.
Responding to concerns about staffing shortages, Chatterjee said the bank currently has a higher-than-average staff-per-branch ratio compared to industry standards. While there is no immediate large-scale recruitment plan, specialized hiring may be considered as needed.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel"Our focus is on optimal resource deployment, efficiency, and smart allocation," he said.
On the issue of competition from private banks, Chatterjee stated that J&K Bank’s legacy, deep-rooted customer relationships, and long-standing service commitment give it a competitive edge. "Many private banks have entered and exited. J&K Bank has stood by its customers through thick and thin. We are not chasing short-term profits; our commitment is long-term," he said.
Chatterjee also outlined the bank’s "Ghar Wapsi Campaign," aimed at reconnecting with former customers by offering competitive rates, better service, and a respectful engagement approach. He underscored the importance of transparency in customer dealings, especially regarding account charges, and said the bank is enhancing customer education through awareness programs in local languages.
On rumors of a possible merger with another bank, Chatterjee categorically dismissed them. " J&K Bank is a strong and profitable bank and there is no reality in such rumors. I have personally spoken to the Lieutenant Governor, the RBI leadership, and the Department of Financial Services in New Delhi. There is no such proposal. J&K Bank will continue as an independent institution with a strong identity and strategic importance," he clarified.
Chatterjee confirmed that the bank will maintain the same dividend of 215 per cent per share for shareholders, reflecting its stable financial performance.
Speaking on the technology he highlighted recent technological upgrades to ensure smooth digital services during high-traffic periods, such as Eid and Diwali.
To address complaints of staff misbehavior and delays in loan approvals, Chatterjee said a zero-tolerance policy is in place, with new digital systems being implemented to streamline loan processing and reduce manual paperwork.
The bank is also working to expand financial access in remote areas by opening 900 Business Correspondent (BC) points and exploring mobile banking solutions where branch infrastructure is not feasible.
In a message to customers, Chatterjee said: "J&K Bank is your bank. We were born here, we grew with you, and we exist because of your trust. Our relationship is not just financial—it is emotional and historic. We are committed to standing by you, delivering on our promises, and building a stronger future together." (KNS)