Public sector banks set to start doorstep banking

NEW DELHI: State-run banks are set to implement doorstep banking for millions of consumers - including the facility to deposit and withdraw cash -making life easier for senior citizens and disabled.
While doorstep banking was prescribed by the RBI a few years ago, the public sector lenders have come together to appoint a common service provider to handle this for all their customers.
UCO Bank has floated a 'Request for Proposal' (RFP) on behalf of all public sector banks seeking private players to run the facility that will come with a call centre, website and a mobile app through which service requests can be lodged.

The service provider hired by the bank will provide agents who will provide financial as well as non-financial services with the cash deposit and withdrawal facility through hand-held devices coming in the second phase.
Initially, the doorstep banking facility will be available to senior citizens and the disabled, who often find it tough to visit branches. Over a period of time, it will be extended to other consumers who may have to pay a nominal fee in case they want to avoid a branch visit, the head of a public sector bank said.
Doorstep banking is part of the government's Enhanced Access and Service Excellence, or EASE, programme. Under this, banks have come together to float this initiative along with common working hours and a revamp of branches, which may soon sport a common look.
The RFP has specified stiff service norms, mandating that all requests for service lodged up to a certain time during a day have to be responded to on the same day. Requests made after the cut-off time will have to be handled in the first half of the next day. Banks will sign a deal with a contractor for three years, which can be extended by another two years.