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Bank of Baroda Launches AI Platform 'bob SAMVAD' for 22-Language Banking

Bank of Baroda has launched an in-house developed AI platform called 'bob SAMVAD' to facilitate multilingual customer interactions in branches. The platform enables real-time, two-way communication across 22 languages using both text and voice modes to overcome language barriers. It was formally launched by DFS Secretary M. Nagaraju, who stated it strengthens customer service and sets a new sector benchmark. The first phase will roll out across 250 branches in five states before a wider network deployment.

Key Points: Bank of Baroda's AI Platform 'bob SAMVAD' Breaks Language Barriers

  • AI platform for 22 languages
  • Eliminates language barriers in banking
  • Supports text and voice queries
  • First phase in 250 branches
  • Part of broader ESG and inclusion efforts
2 min read

Bank of Baroda rolls out multilingual AI platform 'bob SAMVAD' across 22 languages

Bank of Baroda launches 'bob SAMVAD', an AI-powered multilingual platform enabling customer service in 22 languages across 250 branches.

"a step towards inclusive banking - M. Nagaraju"

New Delhi, April 7

Bank of Baroda on Tuesday rolled out 'bob SAMVAD' -- an AI-powered multilingual conversational platform developed by the bank to enhance in-branch customer interactions.

The AI platform was formally launched by Department of Financial Services Secretary M. Nagaraju in Mumbai on March 28.

Terming it a step towards inclusive banking, Nagaraju said the initiative will strengthen customer service delivery and set a new benchmark in the sector through the use of technology.

Moreover, the platform is designed to eliminate language barriers by enabling seamless communication between customers and bank staff in their preferred languages.

Developed in-house, 'bob SAMVAD' enables real-time, low-latency, two-way communication across 22 languages, allowing customers and staff to interact effortlessly even if they speak different languages.

The platform supports both text and voice modes, enabling customers to speak or type queries in their preferred language, which are instantly translated for branch staff, ensuring accurate and efficient service.

Speaking at the launch, Debadatta Chand, Managing Director and CEO of the bank, said the initiative reflects the lender's focus on combining technology with customer-centric design to make branches more inclusive and accessible.

In the first phase, the platform will be rolled out across 250 branches in states including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, followed by a wider deployment across the bank's network.

The DFS Secretary also visited 'bob Forest', a sustainability initiative by the bank at its Mumbai office, aimed at promoting biodiversity and cleaner air as part of its broader ESG efforts.

Earlier in February, the Department of Financial Services under the Finance Ministry organised a two-day workshop at the Bank of Baroda Academy in Ahmedabad on the implementation of the government's reservation policy in public sector banks, insurance companies, sectoral regulators and public financial institutions, along with measures to enhance accessibility of financial services for Divyangjans (persons with disabilities).

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good step for inclusion. But I hope the bank also focuses on training staff properly. New tech is useless if the employees aren't comfortable using it. The rollout in only 250 branches first is smart for testing.
A
Aman W
Finally! Language should not be a barrier to basic banking. As a Marathi speaker, I've often had to switch to Hindi in Mumbai branches. If this works, it will be a game-changer for millions.
S
Sarah B
Impressive to see a public sector bank leading with in-house AI development. The 'bob Forest' mention is also nice – shows a holistic approach to corporate responsibility. Hope other banks follow suit.
K
Karthik V
The concept is brilliant for a diverse country like ours. But what about data privacy? Real-time voice translation means our conversations are being processed somewhere. Need clarity on that.
N
Nisha Z
They should include more Northeastern languages in the next phase. Often, initiatives like these focus only on major regional languages. True inclusion means covering all corners of India.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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