MUMBAI (India CSR): Axis Bank, one of India’s leading private banks, has taken a significant step towards promoting sports in the country. The bank has signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the OGQ Foundation for Promotion of Sports and Games (FPSG) and the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS). These partnerships aim to support Indian athletes at the elite level and nurture young talent.
This is the first time Axis Bank is focusing on sports under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mandate. The initiative highlights its commitment to strengthening the Indian sports ecosystem.
Backing Olympians and Paralympians
Axis Bank’s collaboration with OGQ-FPSG will benefit 150 athletes, including para-athletes, over four years. The support spans 10 Olympic sports, such as archery, badminton, boxing, wrestling, and shooting. It also covers eight Paralympic disciplines, including athletics, archery, and blind judo.
The program ensures athletes receive top-notch training facilities, expert coaching, nutritional advice, and injury rehabilitation. Speaking about the initiative, Vijay Mulbagal, Group Executive for Strategic Programs & Sustainability at Axis Bank, said, “We are proud to support athletes who work hard to bring glory to the nation. This initiative reflects our commitment to building a strong sports culture in India.”
Focus on Judo in Manipur
In partnership with the Inspire Institute of Sport, Axis Bank has launched the Axis Bank Judo Development Program in Manipur. Known for its rich judo talent, Manipur will see grassroots training provided to 50 young athletes over three years.
Additionally, 40 female judokas from across India will receive scholarships to train at the IIS campus in Vijayanagar, Karnataka. “The support from Axis Bank will help young judokas reach their full potential,” said Manisha Malhotra, President of IIS. “We are confident this program will create a new wave of talent for India.”
Strengthening the Sports Ecosystem
Axis Bank’s partnership with OGQ and IIS aims to create a sustainable sports framework. The programs focus on nurturing talent, ensuring athletes have the resources to succeed.
Viren Rasquinha, MD & CEO of OGQ, praised the bank’s efforts, stating, “Axis Bank’s support is a big boost for Indian athletes. It strengthens our mission to win gold at the Olympics and Paralympics. Together, we can make India a sporting powerhouse.”
A New Chapter for Indian Sports
This CSR initiative is more than just financial support. It is about empowering athletes and inspiring a new generation.
“Sports teach discipline, resilience, and teamwork,” said Mulbagal. “Through these partnerships, we aim to inspire athletes to achieve their dreams and grow as individuals.”
Axis Bank’s move into sports is a welcome boost for India’s sports ecosystem. By addressing both elite and grassroots levels, the bank is paving the way for a brighter future for Indian sports. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration in unlocking potential and achieving excellence.
(India CSR)
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