Goodies galore for Barodians who vote

Vadodara: Casting a ballot on Monday will give more benefits to Barodians than just choosing their representatives to Gujarat assembly. The indelible ink mark on the finger can also fetch them attractive deals and discounts at several establishments.
A co-operative bank in the city, for instance, is offering half a per cent more interest on fixed deposits (FDs) and 1 % less interest on loans.
Some city-based hospitals have declared free health check-up camps for citizens at large while an eatery will dish out a plateful of savoury ‘khamans’ to voters who show the ink mark in the morning.
What’s more? Around 50 salons in the city will be offering 15 % discount at their premises to both male and female voters.
“During election season, many organisations conduct drives to promote voting. It is believed that banking sector players don’t have a role to play. But to break this myth, we had launched a scheme before five years when we offered additional interest to members who go for FDs and a reduced rate of interest to loan seekers,” said Gaurav Pawale, chairman of Shree Chhatrapati Shivaji Sahkari Mandali Limited, which has nearly 8,000 members.
In the first attempt, the co-operative had registered Rs 1.20 crore business. “During the last Lok Sabha polls, our business increased to Rs 5.34 crore through the drive to promote voting and this time too we are confident of crossing this mark,” said Pawale.
While a simple member can earn an extra .50 % interest on FD that otherwise gives them 6.90 % on FDs with a tenure of three years, those in special categories like senior citizens, personnel from armed forces or those having single girl child can earn even more, he said.
“After the elections on December 5, we are organising a week-long free health check-up programme at our hospital premises from December 6 to December 13. The two-hour camp from 3pm to 5pm will include doctor consultation, CBC for all & RBS, total cholesterol check-up, and ECG for patients above 35 years age,” said Dr Nilay Brahmachari, group CEO of city-based Tricolor Hospitals.