SMBC Group has been focusing on efforts to eliminate poverty and inequality in Japan and Asia, and has set “contributing to financial inclusion in emerging countries” as one of the 5 priority issues the company should address. This time, we interviewed Mr. Ravikumar Doddala, who is in charge of the initiatives in rural areas of India.
India’s “Rural Project” provides
community-based support
including microfinance
- Ravikumar Doddala
- SMFG India Credit Company
- General Manager & Head of the Rural Business, SMFG India Credit Company
Through rural finance, we contribute to improving the quality of life for our customers and empowering local communities
- Ravikumar：
- SMICC（SMFG India Credit Company）is a Non-Banking Financial Institution and offers various loan products for SME and retail customers in the Urban and Rural areas, as well as through digital channels. In Rural business, which operates in various locations across India, we have established more than 550 branches. Our primary focus is on underserved female customers in rural areas. We flexibly address their diverse needs. Customers use the funds obtained through rural finance* to start various businesses, such as selling vegetables and fruits, decorating and selling clothes like saris. This provides opportunities for increased income and improvements in their quality of life. As daily life stabilizes, money becomes available for their children’s education. In addition to providing rural finance, SMICC supports local communities through various CSR programs, including health check-ups with mobile health vans, vision care (cataract screening), financial education, and cattle care camps. These initiatives secure the trust of customers and the community. We will accelerate business growth by expanding our branch network and diversifying the products and services.
Profile
Mr. RAVIKUMAR DODDALA
- SMFG India Credit Company
- General Manager & Head of the Rural Business, SMFG India Credit Company
With over 25 years of experience, Ravikumar Doddala has held key positions in India’s corporate and financial services sectors.
Since September 2022, he has been the Head of Rural Business at SMFG India Credit Company.
Using his expertise in finance and data analytics, he has developed advanced business models, achieving record lending performance across multiple states.
His leadership in managing diverse financial products, fostering talent, and implementing effective strategies has significantly contributed to business growth and financial inclusion.