With over 36 years of experience in banking, Mr Anil Girotra, Executive Director of Andhra Bank, is well-known among bankers for his knowledge and analytical ability. A postgraduate in mathematics from the University of Delhi and diploma-holder in corporate law, Mr Girotra considers himself ‘lucky' to be in banking. On the eve of his superannuation on September 30, he shared his thought on banking, and trends. Excerpts:

How do you see the banking industry today in the context of rising interest rates and concerns about possible increase in non-performing assets (NPAs) and slow credit growth?

There will be some challenge for banks as rising interest rate is also a contributory factor in influencing asset quality. But we need to see how the rate would be in the days to come. While there are different views on peaks and lows in rates, the inflation levels in will determine the future rates, I feel.

What was the most challenging role in your career in banking when you look back now?

I began my career as a probationary officer in Canara Bank in 1975. I consider myself fortunate as you need not always necessarily be excellent to reach a position. Then operations were manual and tough at times.

The best thing to happen to me was the acquisition of Lakshmi Commercial Bank in 1985. I was made in-charge of integration of 3,400 employees, which meant going through the inspection reports of 3,400 employees. It was a very challenging task. My deputation to the housing finance company of Canara Bank equipped me with good insights into the sector.

What are the likely trends in banking going forward?

The decade between 2000 and 2010 had witnessed increasing use of technology. But many customers are yet to adopt it fully, mostly in rural areas. In the years to come, technology will completely take over banks. Further, it might also be recognised by one and all that financial inclusion is not a welfare programme, but a business proposition for banks.

What is your advice to young bankers?

There are good systems in place in banks. One should always go in depth to understand these systems. No paper, no situation is unimportant. If you casually brush it aside, you tend to lose.

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