Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled India’s inaugural AI-driven “phygital” banking branch of Slice Small Finance Bank in Guwahati. The branch, situated on GS Road, merges traditional banking services with digital and AI technologies to enhance accessibility and financial inclusion. This innovative approach integrates physical and digital banking through AI-based self-service kiosks, paperless transactions, and digital onboarding services.
The Chief Minister emphasized that this pioneering branch marks a significant stride towards fostering a more inclusive financial environment for urban and underserved populations. He highlighted the alignment of this private bank’s investment with the Assam government’s vision of attracting responsible, tech-oriented enterprises to the region. Sarma praised the branch’s role in advancing the future of Indian banking and supporting the state’s economic growth.
Customers at the new branch can directly access credit via the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) without the need for separate applications, offering a streamlined process. This model is particularly beneficial for small traders, women entrepreneurs, and individuals seeking swift access to working capital through digital channels. Sarma underscored the significance of such innovations in promoting financial inclusion by extending banking and credit services to historically marginalized groups.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to fostering a conducive business environment that nurtures innovation and provides economic opportunities for the youth. Assam is progressively establishing itself as a hub for responsible investments driven by cutting-edge technology. The branch aims to broaden access to savings, payment solutions, and credit facilities by combining physical presence with robust digital infrastructure.
