Public sector banks have demonstrated stronger performance and resilience recently, with credit growth surpassing that of private banks, Financial Services Secretary M Nagaraju said on Tuesday. He attributed the trend to improved due diligence, enhanced credit underwriting standards, and better monitoring of project loans.Speaking at the inauguration of Punjab & Sind Bank’s MSME Sports Cluster Branch at Football Chowk, Jalandhar, Nagaraju noted, “Today, customers are returning to public sector banks because of their renewed focus on efficiency, transparency, and trust, PTI reported.” He also urged banks to continue providing robust support to MSMEs and startups, which he called the true drivers of India’s economic growth.He added, “At the same time, we must ensure that every customer is treated with dignity and respect, and that our digital and service journeys remain seamless, resilient, and inclusive.”Punjab & Sind Bank launched several specialised branches during the event, including the SheRise Branch (managed exclusively by women employees), MSME Edge, Agri Hub Branches, and a Startup Branch at Sector 44, Gurugram, designed to offer sector-specific financial solutions and promote inclusive growth, the bank said in a statement.Swarup Kumar Saha, MD and CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank, highlighted Jalandhar’s sports industry as an inspiration for MSME-led development and global competitiveness. “The establishment of these specialised branches reflects our commitment to inclusive, sector-driven growth. Such initiatives will not only empower entrepreneurs but also generate employment and enhance India’s manufacturing potential,” he said.He further emphasised the bank’s collaborations with premier institutions, including ISB Mohali, PAU Ludhiana, and IIM Amritsar, aimed at supporting vendor incubation, futuristic farming, and startup incubation for MSMEs and entrepreneurs.