Impact Of Small Finance Banks On Rural People Of Davanagere District: A Study

Small Finance Banks (SFBs) were introduced in India to promote financial inclusion among underserved populations, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. This study examines the impact of SFBs on rural communities in Davanagere District, Karnataka. The research adopts a descriptive and analytical approach using both primary and secondary data. The findings reveal that SFBs have significantly improved access to credit, enhanced savings habits, promoted entrepreneurship, and contributed to socio-economic development. However, challenges such as financial literacy gaps, repayment issues, and technological barriers persist. The study concludes with policy suggestions to strengthen the role of SFBs in rural transformation.