<h1>Banks extend Rs 43,017 crore credit to 10.07 lakh beneficiaries, push for stronger priority and social sector lending</h1> Over 10.07 lakh beneficiaries in Jammu and Kashmir received credit assistance of about Rs 43,017 crore from banks during the first half of FY 2025-26, as reported at the 17th UT-Level Bankers' Committee meeting. The chief administrative official of the UT reviewed banks' performance in credit and banking services amid security incidents, cross-border tensions, and floods, noting satisfactory priority sector lending. Authorities emphasized enhanced credit flow to agriculture, self-employment schemes (including HADP, PM Vishwakarma, Mission YUVA, and homestays), Self-Help Groups, and sectors such as housing, education, and social infrastructure. Banks, particularly private institutions, were directed to expand outreach and improve enrolment and claim settlement under key social security schemes.