My association with The State Bank of India is long.It`s much changed now.
I remember theearly days of this bank when Ifirst associated with it.It was 1990 when my account was opened in my home town Ranchi.I was in class 9th.I was to receive a scholarship amount of Rs 7, 200 from `National Talent Search`.
I just submitted two Black and white photographs and an Application Form with signature of my father as Witness, who also had a salaried account with the Bank.I was told to come after a week to collect my pass book.
Days went by and I was in a IAF training centre in Bangalore.I saw the changes.I saw many computers in an Extension Counter branch.Our Recurring Deposit, RD was opened compulsorily with an amount of Rs 200 only.It was painful for me as I was getting a low amount as stipend.But there was no choice.Airforce Administration knew that without compulsion no body would save because of their Low maturity level. Thanks Indian Air Force.
We all had better looking pass books and were handed over the RD certificates open the completion of our training.Those days, there was no ATM.Believe me, at the beginning of the month all trainees were making big lines and whole day was dedicated to draw the cash!!
Now., in 2000 I was in North East and again SBI was the bank.Here we got issued with Computerized pass books.It was great to get yourTransactions recorded through a Printer.
In 2003, While in Agra, witnessed Automated Teller Machine - first from SBI.It was a Huge Hit among masses.It saved a lot of time and was very convenient for all it`s customers.
By 2006, I had my Laptop and Dial up Internet too.I subscribed for the Internet Banking.I was. though, apprehensive about the security of my Transactions.But the Friendly Bank Manager assured me sayingit worked on SSL technology.I just needed to protect my passwords and keep changing every months.Also, I needed to keep the password as much complicated as possible using Alphanumerics and Caps lock etc etc.
I enjoyed the Net Banking like a Heavenly commodity.I used it forrecharging my Prepaid mobile, paying for my Internet Postpaid Bills and so on...My mobile also got linked.I got messages immediately after the transaction.
Now, The Internet Banking in Chandigarh is even more secured.To complete any Transaction, I first receive a uniquepassword on my registered mobile.Correct submission only, ensures a Complete Transaction.I also have facility totransfer fund to any account, Change passwords and request for Cheque Books.
I remember , once I used the ATM cum Debit card for refueling my car at an Indian Oil Outlet.First transaction was failed.Next was successful.When I checked the Balance on the Net Banking It was shocking to see double Debit of Rs 2322/- .I took the Printout and submitted to the Bank.Within Minutes it was Refunded !! 3 Cheers to it`s staff as well as the system of SBI.
Once, myregistered SIM was lost.I approached to the bank with a request to register a new Mobile Number.My application was accepted and was offered a seat.Within 10 minutes my new mobile number was registered.
TheATM machine Chain of SBI has the largest network in India.I found every ATM machine up to the standards and serviceable Air Conditioner too.
One of my friendlost his ATM card.On contacting and giving required details on the dedicated Toll Free number it wasBlocked immediately.He was issued with a new ATM card easily.
Now a days , SBI is issuing Full Kit including fully operational ATM card within 20 minutes flat to a new customer upon furnishingall documents.