Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) significantly supported inclusive growth by channeling Rs 2,06,399.04 crore, or 59.50% of their total advances, towards the priority sector as of March 31, 2024.
The Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) segment was the largest beneficiary, receiving Rs 1,29,068.99 crore (37.21%), led by small enterprises (Rs 48,495.41 crore) and micro enterprises (Rs 56,533.05 crore). The agriculture sector followed, with Rs 16,329.05 crore (4.71%) allocated across farm credit, infrastructure, and ancillary activities.
Housing loans accounted for 8.44%, while sectors like education (0.93%), renewable energy (0.41%), and social infrastructure (0.30%) also saw targeted support. The ‘Others’ category within the priority sector received 7.30%.
Notably, Rs 42,742.87 crore was extended as loans to weaker sections, representing 12.32% of total advances, reinforcing UCBs’ role in financial inclusion and grassroots-level credit outreach.