At an exhibition held on the Monday, Kolkata-based Allahabad bank together with Human Welfare Association (HWA), distributed artisan credit cards to 200 artisans and weavers.

KR Kamat, the Chairman and managing Director of the bank inaugurated the exhibition. The CMD expressed joy over Geographical Indication (GI) to Banaras brocades and sarees. He said that the Bank was keen on conserving the traditional forms of art and assured the weavers and artisans for support of any kind.

Before taking charge in Allahabad bank, Kamath worked as the executive director in Bank of India. A brilliant academician, Shri Kamath had secured sixth rank in University of Mysore in II year B.Com in the year 1975 and was adjudged as the "Best Outgoing Commerce Student" of the college in the year 1976. He is a Certified Associate of Indian Institute of Bankers.

Kamath, further said that the facility of cash credit up to Rs 25000 is being extended to 200 artisans and weavers and in future this facility might include more artisans and weavers. RK Jain, regional general manager, and Rajni Kan, president of HWA were also present in the exhibition.

In July this year, Allahabad bank trimmed its benchmark prime lending rate (BPLR) to 12 percent from the earlier 12.25 percent (july 2nd). The bank also lowered deposit rates on its various domestic term deposits, including recurring deposit and capital gains accounts scheme.