The bank always compels customers to go for DEBIT CARD, which has annual fee and always refuses to issue ATM cards. The reason being, ATM CARD HAS TO BE GIVEN FREE. The bank executives & customer service informed me(I have emails to prove this) that, they have stopped issuing ATM Cards. The column for ATM Card has been scored with Black Ink, in the account opening forms. However when I persisted and complained to Hon Banking Ombudsman. I was given plain ATM card for myself and my wife(FREE OF CHARGE).
If they have stopped issuing ATM Cards, then how they have given me ATM Cards after complaining to Hon Banking Ombudsman? This shows they were lying in the first instance.
So my advice to all "REFUSE TO ACCEPT DEBIT CARD AND INSIST ON PLAIN ATM CARD" . This will save you Annual Fee+ Service tax. Also in case of loss of ATM card you need not worry much as without PIN number it is of no use to anyone. On loss of Debit Card there is a chance of purchases being made on your card, by directly debiting your account and you may not be able do anything.
So say GOODBYE to DEBIT CARD & WELCOME ATM CARD.
Regards.