• Vice-President attends TMB’s 105th Foundation Day in Thoothukudi.
• Bank has 632 branches across 17 states and four Union Territories.
• Radhakrishnan urges greater support for MSMEs, farmers and women entrepreneurs.
• Calls for stronger cybersecurity and digital innovation.

GG News Bureau
Thoothukudi, 11th Nov: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday urged Tamilnad Mercantile Bank (TMB) to strengthen its national presence and aspire to become one of India’s leading private sector banks while maintaining its commitment to customers and its roots in Thoothukudi.

Addressing the bank’s 105th Foundation Day celebrations in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, the Vice-President congratulated the institution on its 105-year journey, describing its growth as a reflection of its commitment to trust, service and financial inclusion.

Recalling its origins as Nadar Bank Limited in 1921, he noted that TMB had grown from modest beginnings into a major banking institution with 632 branches across 17 states and four Union Territories. The bank serves more than 53 lakh customers and has recorded total business exceeding ₹1.30 lakh crore.

Banks Have Key Role in Viksit Bharat 2047
Highlighting the banking sector’s role in nation-building, Radhakrishnan emphasised responsible lending and wider access to institutional finance. He called on banks to extend stronger financial support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), farmers, small traders, entrepreneurs, women-led enterprises and corporates.

He said India’s economic progress and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 would depend partly on a strong and inclusive banking system capable of supporting businesses, livelihoods and investment.

The Vice-President also highlighted the transformation brought about by digital banking and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), noting their role in expanding access to formal financial services.

Focus on Technology and Cybersecurity
Commending TMB’s recent performance and technological progress, Radhakrishnan urged the bank to continue embracing innovation while strengthening cybersecurity measures.

He stressed the need to protect customers’ money and personal data as banking services increasingly move to digital platforms. Maintaining customer trust, he said, must remain central to the bank’s growth strategy.

He also encouraged TMB to preserve its connection with Thoothukudi, where it originated, even as it expands its operations and strengthens its national presence.

Expressing confidence in the bank’s future, the Vice-President said TMB could achieve greater milestones and establish itself among India’s leading private sector banks.

Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, TMB Part-Time Chairman K. Ramachandran, Managing Director and CEO Salee S. Nair, Executive Director Vincent Menachery, board members and senior bank officials attended the celebrations.