A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF GREEN DEPOSIT SCHEMES ACROSS INDIAN BANKS

The global shift towards sustainable banking has prompted Indian financial institutions to develop innovative green financial products, with green deposits emerging as a significant instrument for channeling funds towards environmentally sustainable projects. This study presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of green deposit schemes offered by major Indian banks, examining their features, interest rates, tenure options, and environmental impact criteria. Through detailed analysis of six prominent banks - State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Punjab National Bank, and Bank of Baroda - this research identifies key trends, challenges, and opportunities in India's green deposit landscape. The findings reveal varying approaches to green deposit structuring, with public sector banks focusing on broader environmental themes while private banks emphasize specific sustainability metrics. The study concludes with recommendations for standardizing green deposit frameworks and enhancing their contribution to India's sustainable development goals. Keywords: Green Deposits, Sustainable Banking, Environmental Finance, Indian Banking Sector, ESG Investments