New Delhi, Oct 7 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday commended bank officials on their work in rolling out the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna and asked them not to "slacken" their efforts.

The prime minister told the bank officials in an email that he was delighted by the unprecedented response the scheme had received so far with over five crore bank accounts having been opened within five weeks of the launch against a target of 7.5 crore accounts in the first year, according to an official release here.

"This is primarily due to your diligence and commitment. I had urged you to ensure that no one is left behind without a bank account. I always had faith in the ability of our system to rise to any challenge and with your unflinching dedication, sense of purpose and hard work, your results have far exceeded expectations," he said.

"However, as we move ahead from here, the journey is bound to become more difficult and achievements harder to come by. Reaching the last few who do not have bank accounts is going to be progressively more difficult. We must not slacken our efforts in ensuring full coverage," Modi added.

The prime minister said it was also the time to reflect and make mid-course correction if required.

"A lot of effort will be required in promoting financial literacy amongst the new account holders. New accounts also need to be kept alive and properly utilized," he said.

"I am confident that with the kind of enthusiasm and commitment that you have demonstrated, we will succeed in achieving Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana's objectives as planned," he added.