Bank of Baroda catalyzes Odisha’s MSME and Agri growth with ₹4,300 crore credit push

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, JUNE 30, 2025

Reaffirming its commitment to inclusive economic development, Bank of Baroda, one of India’s leading public sector banks, has significantly boosted financial support to the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Agriculture sectors in Odisha. Marking the occasion of World MSME Day (June 27), the Bank announced that it had sanctioned over ₹5,000 crore under priority sector lending in Odisha during FY 2024-25 — of which more than ₹4,300 crore was disbursed as fresh credit to MSMEs and farmers across the state.

This robust credit infusion is enabling job creation, financial inclusion, and grassroots development across Odisha, empowering entrepreneurs, agri-players, and local communities alike.

Speaking on the occasion, Swapna Bandopadhyay, General Manager & Zonal Head – Bhubaneswar Zone, Bank of Baroda, said: “Odisha is a sunrise state brimming with economic potential. Supporting small businesses, farmers, and rural communities is key to accelerating its growth trajectory. At Bank of Baroda, we believe MSMEs and other priority sectors are engines of inclusive development. We remain steadfast in our commitment to nurturing sustainable growth and expanding financial access across the state.”

Bank of Baroda has tailored a wide array of credit solutions to meet the evolving needs of local businesses and entrepreneurs. These include: Baroda Mahila Swavalamban, a dedicated loan scheme for women-led MSMEs; and  Baroda Smart OD, a fully digital overdraft facility that provides swift access to working capital for GST-registered MSMEs.

In addition, the Bank actively promotes key government initiatives such as Stand-Up India, PM SVANidhi, PM Vishwakarma, and PM Mudra Yojana, further bolstering entrepreneurship and self-employment across rural and semi-urban belts.

With a strong network of 202 branches in Odisha — nearly 72% of which are in semi-urban and rural areas — Bank of Baroda ensures deep-rooted access to financial services, aligning with the state’s financial inclusion goals. Furthering its commitment to gender inclusivity, the Bank recently inaugurated three all-women branches in the state. Staffed entirely by women, these branches not only empower female professionals but also foster a welcoming environment for women customers.