SRINAGAR (KIMS) — J&K Bank on Thursday signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate of Census Operations, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, to collaborate on media, publicity and public awareness activities for the Population Enumeration phase of Census 2027.
According to a statement issued by the Bank, the partnership is the first of its kind in the country and aims to leverage J&K Bank’s extensive branch network, digital signages and customer outreach channels to disseminate official Census-related information across the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The MoU was signed by J&K Bank Chief General Manager Ashutosh Sareen and Chief Principal Census Officer and Director Census Operations Amit Sharma in the presence of senior officials from both organisations.
The partnership will involve widespread media, publicity and awareness initiatives to create public awareness about the country’s first Census to be conducted through digital means.
Speaking on the occasion, Amit Sharma said J&K Bank is one of the most trusted public-facing institutions in both Union Territories, with an extensive presence across urban, rural, border and remote areas.
“By integrating Census communication with this trusted institutional network, we are taking authentic Census information directly to the people, strengthening public confidence and ensuring that no resident remains unaware of this important national exercise,” Sharma said.
He said the initiative would help reach lakhs of residents through the Bank’s physical and digital touchpoints, counter misinformation, reinforce public trust and encourage greater participation during Population Enumeration, particularly in remote, border and underserved areas.
J&K Bank Chief General Manager Ashutosh Sareen said the Census is one of the most significant national exercises, providing the foundation for informed policymaking, equitable resource allocation and evidence-based planning.
“As a trusted financial institution with a deep presence across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, J&K Bank is privileged to support this national endeavour by leveraging its extensive physical and digital outreach to disseminate authentic information, build public confidence and encourage greater participation in Census 2027,” he said.
Under the MoU, J&K Bank will facilitate the display of Census awareness material, including posters, pamphlets and standees, across its branches, customer service areas, financial literacy centres and other public-facing locations. The Bank will also disseminate Census awareness messages through its digital signages.
Both organisations will coordinate the awareness campaign through designated nodal officers. The MoU is non-commercial in nature and entails no financial commitment from either side.
The MoU will remain in force until March 31, 2027, providing a structured framework for coordinated awareness initiatives aimed at promoting informed public participation and facilitating the successful conduct of Census 2027 across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. — (KIMS)