How Public Sector Banks Can Drive Viksit Bharat with EASE 7.0

India is on a bold journey toward building a Viksit Bharat - a developed, inclusive, and future-ready nation. In this mission, Public Sector Banks (PSU Banks) play a pivotal role. One of the most impactful frameworks empowering these banks is EASE 7.0 (Enhanced Access and Service Excellence), launched by the Indian government to transform banking operations and customer experience.

EASE 7.0 is more than just a roadmap - it's a national movement to make banking efficient, inclusive, and digitally driven. 

From supporting small businesses to empowering women entrepreneurs and improving rural lending, the initiative is set to redefine how banking contributes to development.

Let’s explore how PSU banks can become powerful drivers of Viksit Bharat through EASE 7.0, with five key action points.

1. 5 Ways PSU Banks Can Accelerate MSME Growth Under EASE 7.0

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of India's economy, contributing nearly 30% to the country’s GDP. Recognizing their importance, EASE 7.0 encourages Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) banks to move beyond traditional lending by focusing on ease of access, transparency, and timely credit for MSMEs.

Here are five ways banks can support MSME growth:

1. Digital Loan Approvals: With paperless processes and faster credit scoring, banks can offer real-time loan approvals to MSMEs, encouraging faster business expansion and reduced turnaround time.
    
2. Data-Driven Lending: Leveraging GST filings and banking transaction data allows PSU banks to accurately assess creditworthiness, reducing delays and improving loan approval rates for eligible MSMEs.
    
3. Specialized MSME Desks: Setting up dedicated helpdesks ensures that MSME owners receive expert assistance to navigate financial products, documentation, and loan application procedures.
    
4. Cluster-Based Lending: Targeting industrial or service clusters with tailored lending models promotes shared infrastructure and collective growth, enabling economies of scale for MSMEs operating within the same sector.
    
5. Financial Literacy Drives: Organizing workshops and awareness programs helps MSME owners understand the available funding options, government schemes, and financial best practices, empowering them to make informed decisions.

This strategy is aligned with Action Point 1 of EASE 7.0, which places MSMEs as priority borrowers. By implementing these initiatives, PSU banks can play a transformative role in strengthening India's MSME ecosystem and driving inclusive economic growth.

2. 6 Steps to Make Your Branch More Inclusive for Women Entrepreneurs

Women-led businesses in India are growing, but many still face roadblocks when accessing financial services. EASE 7.0 recognizes the need for gender-inclusive banking through Action Point 3.

Here’s how PSU banks can make branches more welcoming and effective for women entrepreneurs:

1. Women-Centric Banking Hours: Offering exclusive banking hours for women can improve access and comfort.
    
2. Dedicated Relationship Managers: Trained staff can address the unique needs of women-led enterprises.
    
3. Support Groups and Mentorship: Branches can host sessions with successful women entrepreneurs to build community and confidence.
    
4. Simplified Loan Processes: Clear, easy-to-follow loan application procedures encourage participation.
    
5. Visibility of Women Schemes: Highlighting government and bank schemes for women at branches increases awareness.
    
6. Safe and Accessible Branches: Ensuring safety, child-friendly spaces, and helpful staff can go a long way.

These steps contribute to financial inclusion and support the larger goal of creating a gender-equal economy.

Fun Fact:
Did you know that India has the third-highest number of women-owned businesses globally, with over 13.5 to 15.7 million women-led enterprises?

3. 7 Ways Queue Management Systems Improve Rural & Agri Lending Efficiency

One of the standout focuses of EASE 7.0 is on improving rural and agricultural lending. Long queues, inefficient processes, and time-consuming paperwork often create significant hurdles for farmers and rural customers. That’s where Queue Management Systems become game changers, as highlighted under Action Point 6.

Importantly, banks are advised to ensure that at least 40% of advances to the priority sector are extended to agriculture and allied activities, making it imperative to streamline services for these segments.

Here’s how Queue Management systems improve efficiency in rural and agri lending:

1. Digital Tokens: These eliminate long physical lines by allowing customers to book slots in advance, reducing congestion and improving service flow.
    
2. SMS Alerts: Real-time notifications about queue status empower rural customers to time their visits better, minimizing wait times.
    
3. Separate Counters for Agri Loans: Dedicated service windows expedite processing, ensuring timely disbursal of funds critical during sowing and harvesting seasons.
    
4. Walk-in Analytics: Banks can monitor footfall patterns and deploy staff effectively, reducing bottlenecks during peak hours in rural branches.
    
5. Priority Access for Senior Citizens and Women: Special provisions for vulnerable groups foster inclusivity and enhance the customer experience in underserved areas.
    
6. Feedback Systems: Branches receive instant feedback on service quality, enabling them to make data-driven improvements in real-time.
    
7. Mobile Van Queue Integration: In remote and underserved locations, mobile vans equipped with queue systems bring banking access directly to customers, bridging the last-mile gap.

By adopting Queue Management systems, PSU banks not only boost operational efficiency but also enhance trust and customer satisfaction in rural areas—both of which are essential for building a Viksit Bharat.

4. 4 Reasons Why CASA Growth Is Critical to India’s Banking Future

Current Account and Savings Account (CASA) growth is crucial for a strong banking foundation. Under Action Point 4 of EASE 7.0, PSU banks are encouraged to focus on CASA as a key driver of financial health.

Here’s why CASA growth matters:

1. Low-Cost Funds: CASA deposits reduce the cost of funds, making lending more competitive.
    
2. Increased Customer Stickiness: Customers with CASA accounts tend to use more banking services.
    
3. Financial Inclusion: Encouraging savings builds healthy financial habits, especially in rural India.
    
4. Better Cross-Selling Opportunities: A strong CASA base helps banks offer insurance, loans, and investment products efficiently.

EASE 7.0 empowers banks to use digital tools and community outreach programs to boost CASA penetration across India.

Fun Fact:
Did you know that over 50% of deposits in Indian PSU banks come from CASA accounts?

5. 3 Economic Sectors PSU Banks Should Champion for Viksit Bharat

 

To truly transform India, PSU banks need to actively support the country’s most promising sectors. Action Point 2 of EASE 7.0 encourages focused lending to strategic areas.

Here are three sectors that banks should prioritize:

1. Agriculture and Agri-Tech: Supporting modern farming methods and agri-startups can increase productivity and rural income.

2. Green Energy: Financing solar, wind, and electric mobility projects helps meet climate goals and creates jobs.

3. Digital Startups: Tech innovation is crucial for job creation and economic growth; easy access to capital is key.

Supporting these sectors under EASE 7.0 doesn’t just help the economy—it supports India’s global ambitions.

The Road Ahead: Viksit Bharat Powered by PSU Banks

EASE 7.0 isn’t just a banking reform—it’s a mission to build a better, more inclusive India. With digital transformation, customer-first strategies, and focused sectoral lending, Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) banks are positioned as the true backbone of this national transformation.

From implementing smart Queue Management Systems in rural areas to empowering MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, and promoting financial inclusion, every initiative under EASE 7.0 moves us closer to the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

A shining example of PSU banks' impact is their major role in the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)—over 35.99 crore accounts have been opened under this scheme, bringing millions into the formal banking system and unlocking access to financial services for the unbanked.

If you’re a bank leader, policymaker, or citizen, now is the time to recognize the transformative power of PSU banks in shaping India's future. Let’s work together to make Viksit Bharat a reality—one branch, one entrepreneur, and one account at a time.

Conclusion

The path to Viksit Bharat is not a distant dream—it’s a journey that starts with strong institutions, inclusive policies, and responsive banking systems. With EASE 7.0, Public Sector Banks are being empowered to become more efficient, tech-driven, and people-centric. 

Whether it’s supporting MSMEs, enhancing financial inclusion for women, or improving rural banking through Queue Management systems, each initiative under EASE 7.0 is a stepping stone toward a more equitable and developed India.

The success of EASE 7.0 lies not just in its digital innovations but in its ability to reach the last-mile customer—be it a farmer, a small business owner, or a young woman starting her first venture. 

By embracing the pillars of this reform and consistently focusing on service excellence, PSU banks can be the engines that power India's transformation.

As citizens, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in the nation's progress, it’s essential for us to recognize and support these reforms. With continued efforts and community participation, Viksit Bharat is not just possible—it’s within reach.

For more information on queue management systems, check out our business automation solutions on CBSL group today!

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. What is EASE 7.0 and how is it different from previous EASE reforms?

EASE 7.0 (Enhanced Access and Service Excellence) is the latest version of a government-backed reform agenda for Public Sector Banks in India. 

Unlike earlier versions that focused on foundational improvements, EASE 7.0 emphasizes digital transformation, inclusive growth, and sector-specific support such as MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, and rural lending. It aims to make PSU banks more agile, customer-centric, and development-focused.

2. How does EASE 7.0 support rural banking and agriculture finance?

EASE 7.0 addresses rural banking challenges by promoting Queue Management Systems, mobile banking units, and dedicated agri-loan counters. 

These enhancements help reduce wait times, improve transparency, and ensure timely credit access - especially critical during agricultural seasons. Banks are also encouraged to direct at least 40% of priority sector lending towards agriculture and allied sectors.

3. In what ways are women entrepreneurs being supported under EASE 7.0?

Action Point 3 of EASE 7.0 focuses on gender-inclusive banking. This includes measures such as women-centric banking hours, dedicated relationship managers, simplified loan documentation, visibility for government schemes, and safer branch environments. These steps aim to remove barriers and promote financial empowerment for women-led businesses.

4. Why is MSME lending a priority in EASE 7.0?

MSMEs contribute significantly to India’s GDP and employment landscape. EASE 7.0 promotes faster, data-driven lending through digital loan approvals, specialized MSME helpdesks, and cluster-based strategies. 

These interventions help improve credit access and business scalability, positioning PSU banks as growth enablers for the MSME sector.

5. What role does CASA growth play in the success of EASE 7.0?

CASA (Current Account Savings Account) deposits provide low-cost funding for banks, enabling them to offer competitive loans and expand services. 

Under EASE 7.0, PSU banks are encouraged to drive CASA growth through digital onboarding, community outreach, and improved financial literacy - especially in underbanked regions. A strong CASA base ensures financial stability and supports broader economic inclusion goals.