Udupi: Strengthening its presence across Karnataka, MCC Bank Ltd. inaugurated its 23rd branch at Katapadi on Sunday, reaffirming its commitment to expanding customer-centric cooperative banking services. The new branch is located on the ground floor of Global Residency Building, Old Post Office Road, Moodabettu, Katapadi.

The branch was inaugurated by Sahakara Ratna Shri Anil Lobo, Chairman of MCC Bank Ltd. Mr. M. A. Gafoor, President of the Coastal Development Board, inaugurated the Safe Room, while Rev. Fr. Rajesh Prasanna, Parish Priest of St. Vincent De Paul Church, Katapadi, blessed the premises and lit the ceremonial lamp, marking the commencement of banking operations.

The inaugural function was presided over by Chairman Shri Anil Lobo. Among the dignitaries present were Chief Guest Mr. M. A. Gafoor, Rev. Akshay D. Amanna, Presbyter of CSI Christ Church, Katapadi, Mr. Prashanth Jathanna, Director of the Karnataka Christian Co-operative Credit Development Corporation (KCCDC), Government of Karnataka, Mrs. Geethanjali M. Suvarna, former Member of Udupi Zilla Panchayat, Mr. K. Satyendra Pai, Secretary of SVS Vidyavardhaka Sangha (R), Katapadi, CA Pritiesh Burton D’Sa, Chartered Accountant, Mr. Ismail Katapadi, General Secretary of Muslim Federation, Udupi District, Vice Chairman Mr. Jerald Jude D’Silva, and General Manager Mr. Sunil Menezes.

Chairman highlights rapid growth

In his presidential address, Shri Anil Lobo reaffirmed MCC Bank’s commitment to cooperative banking, customer-focused services, and sustainable growth. Thanking the people of Katapadi for their warm support, he expressed confidence that the new branch would achieve a business turnover of ₹10 crore within six months.

Highlighting the bank’s progress, he said MCC Bank has nearly tripled its business turnover from ₹500 crore to over ₹1,600 crore during the past eight years while strengthening governance, expanding digital banking services, modernising branches, and restoring NRI banking facilities. He credited the bank’s success to transparent governance, RBI compliance, dedicated employees, and the continued trust of customers.

Guests praise MCC Bank’s customer-centric approach

Rev. Fr. Rajesh Prasanna described MCC Bank as “our own bank” and appreciated its customer-centric services, transparent governance, and remarkable growth in recent years. He expressed confidence that the institution would continue to emerge as one of Karnataka’s leading cooperative banks.

Chief Guest Mr. M. A. Abdul Gafoor commended the bank’s transformation over the past eight years, stating that MCC Bank has upheld the ideals of the cooperative movement through honest governance, prudent financial management, and quality customer service.

Several other dignitaries, including CA Preethesh D’Sa, Rev. Akshay D. Amanna, Mr. Prashanth Jathanna, Mrs. Geethanjali M. Suvarna, Mr. K. Satyendra Pai, and Kaup MLA Shri Gurme Suresh Shetty, congratulated the management for the bank’s expansion and appreciated its discipline, professionalism, and commitment to community development.

Community initiatives recognised

As part of the inaugural celebrations, MCC Bank felicitated academic achievers, rank holders, distinguished social contributors, and leadership excellence awardees from the region. The bank also extended financial assistance of ₹25,000 to Mr. Ravi Katapadi, honoured customers who opened accounts during the inauguration, and recognised individuals who contributed to the successful launch of the branch.

The programme featured the Bank Anthem, a prayer song by staff members, and a documentary showcasing MCC Bank’s journey and achievements. Dr. Gerald Pinto welcomed the gathering, while Mr. Alwyn Danti compered the programme. Rev. Fr. Anil Dsouza, Parish Priest of Udayavara Church, was felicitated on his appointment as the Spiritual Director of Catholic Sabha (R), Udupi Pradesh. Mementoes were presented to the chief guest and guests of honour, and the inaugural ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from customers and residents of Katapadi and nearby areas.