Guwahati, May 18 (APAC Media): In a major push towards digital banking and financial innovation, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday inaugurated India’s first AI-powered digital banking branch of Slice Small Finance Bank in Guwahati.
AI-Powered Banking Services Introduced
The newly opened branch combines physical banking support with advanced digital banking systems. Customers will be able to access services through AI-enabled kiosks, QR-based banking facilities, instant onboarding, app-based banking operations, and digital passbook printing.
“The launch marks an important milestone in Assam’s digital transformation journey. Guwahati is steadily emerging as a preferred destination for major institutions and businesses, creating new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship in the state.”, the Chief Minister added.
Slice Bank Highlights Digital Banking Vision
Slice Small Finance Bank Chairperson Eugene Karthak said the bank was proud to launch its AI-powered digital banking branch in Assam.
He explained that Northeast Small Finance Bank had merged with Slice after receiving approval from the Reserve Bank of India, following which the institution became Slice Small Finance Bank with its headquarters in Guwahati.
Karthak said the bank offers several digital facilities including AI kiosks, QR-based banking services, instant passbook printing and quick loan approvals for merchants and customers.
Focus on Financial Inclusion in Northeast India
Explaining why Assam was chosen as the bank’s headquarters, Karthak said the initiative was largely driven by the need to improve financial inclusion in Northeast India.
He said several states in the region, including Mizoram and Nagaland, still face limited banking penetration in rural and remote areas. According to him, digital banking infrastructure can help expand banking access more efficiently in underserved regions.
Slice MD & CEO Rajan Bajaj stated that the new branch follows a “phygital” model, combining digital technology with physical customer support whenever needed. He said the bank plans to expand merchant QR and digital banking solutions across Assam and the Northeast over the next two to three years before growing its presence nationwide.
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