E-Sewa, Citizens Bank launch loan product for PwD

Kathmandu, Sept. 25

E-Sewa, in collaboration with Citizens Bank International, has launched ‘Swabalamban Karja’, a digital lending facility designed specifically for Persons with Disabilities.

The facility launched on Friday in Lalitpur aims at making access to credit easier by reducing lengthy procedures, paperwork, and the need for physical presence, the company said in a statement.

The event was attended by representatives from eSewa, Citizens Bank International, the National Federation of the Disabled Nepal, development partner organizations, Persons with Disabilities, and the media.

Through the new product, eligible Persons with Disabilities can apply for a loan directly through the eSewa app. The facility offers loans ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 200,000, at an annual interest rate of 9.99 per cent and a processing fee of 0.75 per cent.

"Eligible users can apply by clicking on the ‘Swabalamban Karja’ banner available on the eSewa app’s home page and completing the application process," read the statement.

According to the partners in the new product, to be eligible, applicants must have a KYC-verified eSewa account, a disability identity card issued by the government, and at least six months of eSewa usage history. Applicants must also have a regular source of income through employment or business.

Loan approval will be subject to the relevant assessment and the applicable terms and conditions of the bank.

Speaking at the event, CEO of eSewa Jagdish Khadka, said that ‘Swabalamban Karja’ aims to leverage digital technology to make access to credit simpler and more convenient for Persons with Disabilities.

"It is not just a financial product, it is the beginning of a broader concept. An individual’s access to financial services should not be limited by their physical condition,” he said.

Similarly, CEO of Citizens Bank Roshan Manandhar expected Swabalamban Karja to provide a financial solution that supports their personal and economic needs.

"We had been looking for an opportunity to do something different and meaningful, and we are proud to collaborate on this initiative introduced by eSewa. I hope this initiative will help create a broader ecosystem that supports greater financial inclusion,” he said. 

Published in The Rising Nepal on 26 September 2026.