Financial Literacy at the Grassroots: A Step Toward Empowered Villages

Reaching the Villages Where Awareness Matters Most

Financial literacy becomes truly meaningful when it reaches the grassroots. With this belief, ISCI Foundation began Day 1 of its Financial Literacy Camp (FLC) series on 08 September 2025, taking vital financial awareness directly to Bahadurpur and Guthina villages in the Baretha region of Gwalior district. Conducted in collaboration with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and Madhya Pradesh Gramin Bank (MPGB), the camps aimed to simplify financial concepts and empower rural communities with knowledge that can secure their future.

A Warm Response from Bahadurpur and Guthina

The day witnessed encouraging participation from both villages. In Guthina village, around 50 villagers gathered for the session, while 33 villagers actively participated in Bahadurpur. Men and women of different age groups came forward with curiosity and openness, eager to learn and understand financial systems that directly affect their daily lives. Many participants shared that such structured financial guidance was being provided in their village for the very first time, making the session even more impactful.

Team Effort on the Ground

The success of Day 1 was made possible by the collective efforts of the ISCI Foundation team and banking partners. Volunteers Muskan, Kartik, Aditya, Mayank, and Manmohan played a key role in engaging with villagers, addressing doubts, and explaining financial topics in a simple and relatable manner. The presence of ISCI Foundation Director Mohit Modi added strong leadership and clarity to the camp, while bank managers from MPGB helped build trust by providing authentic information and answering banking-related queries.

Understanding Government Schemes for Financial Security

A major focus of the camp was spreading awareness about important government-backed financial security schemes. Villagers were informed about Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Jan Suraksha Yojana (PMJBSY), and Atal Pension Yojana (APY). The team explained the eligibility, premium amounts, benefits, and long-term value of these schemes, helping participants understand how small contributions today can protect their families tomorrow. Many villagers expressed relief on learning that affordable insurance and pension options were available to them.

Building Strong Basics of Banking and Savings

Another key aspect of the session was educating villagers on the fundamentals of banking. Topics such as savings accounts, fixed deposits (FD), recurring deposits (RD), and the importance of regular savings were discussed in detail. Through real-life examples, participants were encouraged to develop saving habits and view banks as partners in financial stability rather than institutions to fear. The discussion helped clear long-standing misconceptions and motivated villagers to take their first steps toward organized financial planning.

Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion

With digital transactions becoming increasingly common, the camp also focused on digital banking and financial inclusion. Villagers were guided on the safe use of ATM cards, UPI transactions, and linking bank accounts with mobile numbers. Special attention was given to first-time users and elderly participants, ensuring they felt confident rather than overwhelmed by technology. The aim was to promote digital access while emphasizing caution and awareness.

Cyber Fraud Awareness: A Critical Conversation

One of the most impactful segments of the camp was the discussion on cyber fraud and digital safety. Participants were informed about common fraud methods such as fake calls, OTP scams, and fraudulent links. The importance of never sharing sensitive banking information was emphasized, along with guidance on immediate action in case of fraud. Villagers were clearly informed about the 1930 Cyber Crime Helpline Number, which many noted as extremely useful information. This session sparked meaningful conversations, with several villagers sharing experiences or close encounters with fraud attempts.

Learning Outcomes

The overall response from both villages was highly positive. Participants described the program as practical, informative, and easy to understand. Many shared that they now felt more confident visiting banks, asking questions, and making informed financial decisions. Women participants, in particular, showed keen interest in savings schemes and insurance plans, reflecting how financial literacy can play a vital role in women empowerment and household stability.

Addressing the gathering, ISCI Foundation Director Mohit Modi highlighted the deeper purpose of these camps. He emphasized that financial literacy is not merely about understanding money but about achieving independence and security. He shared that ISCI Foundation’s mission is to ensure every rural family gains the confidence to make informed financial decisions and safeguard their future. His words resonated strongly with the villagers and reinforced the foundation’s long-term commitment to grassroots empowerment.

Why Day 1 Set the Tone for the Journey Ahead

Day 1 of the Financial Literacy Camp series laid a strong foundation for the days to come. By reaching Bahadurpur and Guthina villages, ISCI Foundation reaffirmed its belief that meaningful change begins at the community level. The enthusiasm, participation, and willingness to learn shown by villagers proved that financial awareness, when delivered with empathy and clarity, can create lasting impact.

As ISCI Foundation continues this day-wise FLC journey across villages, Day 1 stands as a reminder of why this work matters. Each camp adds another layer of awareness, confidence, and security to rural communities. With every village visited, the vision of a financially aware, empowered, and self-reliant India moves closer to reality.

EDITED BY : KARTIK