SRINAGAR: Banking activity across Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a sharp spike during the Eid al-Fitr shopping period, with digital platforms driving the surge as consumers increasingly opted for cashless modes of payment.
Official data from Jammu & Kashmir Bank revealed that non-branch banking transactions between March 16 and 19 touched ₹8,393.88 crore, spread across 5.94 crore transactions, indicating strong economic activity in the run-up to the festival.
The data pointed to a clear shift towards digital payments, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) emerging as the dominant channel. UPI alone accounted for 4,00,48,711 transactions worth ₹3,125 crore during the four-day period.
Mobile-based mPay services also recorded significant traction, logging 1,70,58,715 transactions amounting to ₹2,991.70 crore. Officials expect the volume to rise further with the culmination of Ramadan and peak festive shopping.
Despite the strong digital push, cash transactions continued alongside. ATM withdrawals during the period stood at 15,50,168 transactions worth ₹658.57 crore, underlining the continued relevance of cash during high-spending occasions.
High-value transactions through e-banking channels remained notable as well, with ₹1,466 crore recorded across 83,641 transactions, reflecting sustained usage for larger financial dealings.
Kiosk banking services also played a role in maintaining financial access in underserved areas, facilitating 65,952 transactions worth ₹152.61 crore during the period.
The surge highlights the growing adoption of digital banking across Jammu and Kashmir in recent years. While multiple banks operate in the region, Jammu & Kashmir Bank continues to hold a dominant presence across both urban and rural areas.
With the last days of Ramadan traditionally witnessing peak consumer activity, banking officials anticipate further growth in transaction volumes, driven by increasing digital penetration and consumer preference for faster, convenient payment modes.
