Key Contributions & Milestones
Modernizing Banking (The Technocrat's Touch)
Under his leadership, DCC Bank Bidar adopted modern technology:
- Implemented Core Banking Systems, placing the cooperative bank on par with commercial giants.
- Launched RTGS/NEFT and Rupay Card services for rural customers.
- Efficiently managed the demonetization crisis, ensuring zero disruption to farmers and customers.
Farmer Empowerment
- Loan Waivers: Facilitated the state government loan waiver scheme, ensuring reached beneficiaries directly.
- Crop Insurance: successfully implemented Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, with claims credited to farmers.
- Diversified Lending: Expanded credit for tractors, borewells, drip irrigation, and harvesting machines to boost agricultural productivity.
The "Bidar SHG Model"
Continuing his father’s legacy, Umakanth strengthened the Self Help Group (SHG) movement.
- NABARD has recognized the “Bidar SHG Model” for its success in socio-economic upliftment.
- The bank extends 75-80% of its financing to agriculture, horticulture, sericulture, and sugar factories.
Education & Skill Development
- Sharada Rudashetti Training Centre: A unique initiative providing vocational training in hardware, mobile repair, and electronics.
- Impact: Over 18,000 men and women trained, with 80% achieving self-employment.
- Saharda Training Institute: A national-level institute training officials from various states (including Madhya Pradesh Govt) in the successful SHG & JLG models.
Awards & Recognition
- “Sahakara Ratna” (2020): Awarded by the Government of Karnataka for outstanding contributions to the cooperative sector.
- National Award (2016-17): Honored by Hon’ble Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley for DCC Bank’s excellence.
- State Level Awards: Multiple accolades from NABARD for performance and SHG promotion.
Global Perspective
To bring global best practices to Bidar, Umakanth embarked on international study tours to England, Switzerland, Netherlands, Australia, Italy, France, Belgium, Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and China. He applied these insights to modernize local cooperative education and infrastructure.
