Financial Literacy and Digital Banking Services in Sikkim

Abstract

Objective: The research was multifaceted - the goal was dual folded: first, to establish how well people perceive online banking and the services they provide. The second area covered in the study was the intention to participate in electronic banking services. Theoretical Framework: The valuable impact of digitalization of banks on the rationalization of the local financial system. Along with this, financial literacy was highlighted in both the domestic industry and the international market which caused sustainable development. Method: The data was collected by administering a structured free format survey to the customers of banks in a district of Sikkim (East region) Convenience sampling was the approach undertaken for selecting respondents. Results & Discussion: The results and discussion were shown to have increased digital banking in recent times as reflected in the country. This is the second major rationale as to why cyber thieves should not be scared of e-banking since it appears more secure than traditional banking. Also, it has been seen that digital banks provide more diverse outlets in terms of loans and a wide spectrum of banking services. An efficient IT infrastructure and working devices fit the bill to make the financial market function correctly. Implications: This data can be used to suggest that in the future, financial literacy programs can be of maximum help to financial institutions thus increasing the frequency of digital banking. Originality: The uniqueness of this research lies in its analysis of the level of awareness and a high tendency of digital banking in a few municipalities which are situated in East Sikkim. Also, it recommends strategies like educational programs that are gender-sensitive and that contribute to a more resilient and sustainable digital banking ecosystem.