Solution

HDFC Bank, plans to open 675 branches in semi-urban and rural areas in the next 12-14 months to scale up the branch network in these areas to 5,000.As of March 31, the bank had 52 per cent of its 7,821 branches in semi-urban and rural locations.    As a step to grow business (deposits and advances), the bank will begin to provide premium banking services, Vishesh, to various customer groups, such as farmers, micro-enterprises, and those into government service. It expects to get on board 100,000 customers for this service in FY24.    The premium banking programme will offer a blend of financial and wellness benefits. The services would include dedicated personal bankers, up to 50 per cent off once a year on processing fees in gold loan and 50 percent waiver on valuation.     The lending institution would extend agri-tech services like soil testing, agri advisory, drone spraying, and agri machinery rental through partnership. The service package would also cover one annual complimentary and cashless health check-up with over 45 lab   test packages and unlimited telehealth consultations.