Dhaka, July 20 -- In a bid to scale up lending to agriculture and agro-based industries, and bolster food security, Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank (RAKUB) has sought an additional Tk 6.75 billion in paid-up capital from the government, according to sources.

The state-run specialised bank has recently submitted a formal request to the secretary of the Financial Institutions Division (FID) to initiate the necessary steps in this regard.

RAKUB's current paid-up capital stands at Tk 8.25 billion. However, the FID has recently decided to raise it to Tk 15 billion. As RAKUB is a fully state-owned bank, the remaining amount is expected to be contributed by the government.

The bank operates 383 branches, including its Local Principal Office (LPO...