Punjab National Bank (PNB) on Thursday announced the launch of the “PNB Digi Shrestha Digital Loan Scheme,” a lending initiative aimed at women customers who are members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM).
The scheme was introduced ahead of International Women’s Day and is intended to expand access to institutional credit for women engaged in rural entrepreneurship, according to the bank.
Under the Digi Shrestha scheme, eligible borrowers can access loans of up to ₹5 lakh. The lending process is designed to be fully digital, including loan sanction and account opening. The scheme also features minimal documentation requirements and a simplified application process intended to make credit access faster and more accessible.
PNB said the initiative aligns with efforts to promote the national vision of creating “Lakhpati Didis,” referring to women entrepreneurs in rural areas who achieve annual incomes of ₹1 lakh or more. The program is also intended to encourage the adoption of digital banking services among members of self-help groups.
According to the bank, the initiative uses digital processes to streamline loan access while supporting women-led enterprises in rural areas. The bank said the scheme is part of its broader efforts to strengthen financial inclusion and support entrepreneurship among women across the country.
