NAVIGATING FINANCIAL FRONTIERS: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF INSTITUTIONAL FINANCE IN ASSAM

The paper discussed the progress and challenges of institutional finance in Assam. It has been observed that the commercial banks of Assam are leading in deposits and dispersion of credits in this north-eastern state of India. The deposits and credit of the scheduled commercial banks are increasing continuously. Those credit and deposits are higher in scheduled commercial banks situated in the urban areas. Savings and term accounts contribute to more deposits in the banks. Advance to weaker section is highest in the regional rural banks. The public sector banks are in a leading position in disbursing KCC numbers and KCC amounts. There are many challenges before institutional finance in Assam. Therefore, the government should introduce proper banking policies to mitigate such challenges. This paper contributes to the broader goal of promoting sustainable development, reducing disparities, and enhancing the overall well-being of Assam’s populace. It is also the first to address the critical gaps in the understanding of the financial landscape of Assam, a region undergoing rapid socio-economic transformation. The findings of this study can ignite policy formulation and strategic decision-making processes at both the regional and national levels. Hence, this paper discusses the progress and challenges of institutional finance in the state.