Abstract

Rural banking plays a critical role in strengthening the financial ecosystem of India by providing credit access savings facilities and financial services to rural populations. Virudhachalam Taluk located in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu represents a significant agricultural and rural economic zone where banking institutions influence socioeconomic development. This study examines rural banks’ perspectives on the challenges opportunities and growth patterns present in Virudhachalam Taluk. Through an empirical lens the research explores the role of cooperative banks regional rural banks (RRBs) and commercial banks in supporting rural livelihoods agriculture micro-enterprises and government welfare schemes. The paper evaluates the effectiveness of financial inclusion initiatives credit distribution systems loan recovery mechanisms and the adoption of digital banking services. Findings highlight both the progress made in rural financial coverage and the persistent issues such as lo