The second largest private sector lender, HDFC Bank plans to add around 50 new branches in Karnataka by the end of next financial year.

The proposed expansion includes in the districts of Chamarajnagar and Kolar, where HDFC bank does not have any branches, said Mr. Dhiraj Relli, HDFC Bank Branch Banking Head (South).

"By March 31, 2014, we plan to have 200 branches in Karnataka (from the current 150)," Mr. Relli said, adding that the bank sees huge potential in rural and semi-urban areas".

HDFC bank opened its 150th branch in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada district's town of Sullia.

At present, the bank has 1,069 ATMs across Karnataka, including 874 here.