ESAF Small Finance Bank celebrated its 6th Foundation Day on 10th March 2023, with a grand event held at its headquarters in Mannuthy, Thrissur. The welcome speech, delivered by Shri. Hari Velloor, EVP, ESAF SFB, set the tone for the occasion. The chief guest, Shri. Vijay Kumar Nayak, Chief General Manager, the Reserve Bank of India, elaborated on the significance of financial inclusion in India. He praised ESAF for its contribution to expanding the horizon of financial inclusion and transforming lives. He also explained how small finance banks can leverage the opportunities provided by the central budget of 2023. Shri. K. Paul Thomas, MD and CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank, expressed his appreciation to all who contributed to the Bank's growth. He shared his thoughts on the Bank's future, emphasising that while the Bank achieves great heights, its vision and mission will remain steadfast. He also highlighted how ESAF Bank had managed to grow even during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Kerala floods. He emphasised the Bank's commitment to striking a balance between social responsibility and profitability. The presidential address was delivered by Shri. P. R. Ravi Mohan, Chairman, ESAF SFB. Dr. Gopakumaran Nair, CGM, NABARD, also addressed the gathering.
During the event, the winners of Tejaswi and Tejus were announced and the Bank launched several new products—Business WhatsApp, Agri Commodity Backed - Warehouse Receipt Finance, QR Scanner for Temple, EbixCash Cobranded Travel Card, eShiksha App, Online Account – eLite, and 3 in One Demat Account. Agent onboarding website and ISO Certification of HR were also released as part of the event. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Shri. George K. John, EVP, ESAF SFB, expressing gratitude to everyone who made the event possible. Overall, the event celebrated the success of the past six years while underscoring ESAF Small Finance Bank's commitment to financial inclusion and social responsibility.