Abstract            Volume:13  Issue-2  Year-2025         Original Research Articles

Online ISSN : 2347 - 3215 Issues : 12 per year Publisher : Excellent Publishers Email : editorijcret@gmail.com

Financial inclusion is essential for providing marginalized and low-income groups with access to vital financial services, boosting economic stability and growth. Although global progress has been made in account ownership and digital payments, challenges persist, particularly in rural areas like India. These challenges call for investments in financial literacy, consumer protection, and technology to ensure equitable access. India has made significant strides in financial inclusion, increasing account ownership through various initiatives. However, about 41% of adults remain unbanked, with regional disparities limiting financial access. Rural India faces specific hurdles, including limited banking services, dependence on predatory lenders, and low financial literacy, which contribute to distrust in formal institutions. Efforts like self-help groups and digital banking have aimed to bridge these gaps but often worsen inequalities due to poor IT infrastructure and limited education, leaving marginalized communities dependent on informal financial systems. The future of financial inclusion in India depends on overcoming technological challenges, boosting financial literacy, and enhancing stakeholder collaboration. Persistent issues such as distrust in digital payments, inadequate infrastructure, and complex banking processes hinder progress. By leveraging technological advancements and implementing supportive policies, India can harness fintech's potential to drive sustainable economic growth and ensure equitable access to financial services, particularly for its rural population. Received: 05 December 2024 Accepted: 25 January 2024 Available Online: 20 February 2025

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