NEW DELHI (India CSR): Reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement, AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB), India’s largest small finance bank, concluded a month-long nationwide tree plantation campaign aligned with the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Nationwide Participation Drive
The campaign kickstarted on World Environment Day (June 5, 2025) and saw active participation from over 500 AU SFB branches, which organized plantation drives in nearby schools across the country, planting over 5,000 saplings. The final leg of the campaign culminated during Van Mahotsav Week with a special event held at Amrita Vidyalayam, New Delhi, led by Mr. H.R. Khan, Part-Time Chairman & Independent Director, AU Small Finance Bank.
Ecological Engagement Activities
During the event, native tree saplings were planted within the school premises, chosen for their ecological benefits and ability to support local biodiversity. Additionally, the Bank distributed around 100 native herbs and low-maintenance plant species to students, encouraging them to engage with nature and take personal responsibility for the environment. A drawing competition on the theme “Saving Trees, Saving Future” was also organized, with winners felicitated by Mr. Khan for their creativity and environmental awareness.
Leadership Message Shared
Speaking at the event, H.R. Khan, Part-Time Chairman, AU Small Finance Bank, emphasized the importance of institutional leadership in environmental action:
“At AU Small Finance Bank, we believe that sustainability must be rooted in action and community. Our participation in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ campaign is a reflection of our commitment to nurturing ecosystems where human activities and nature grow together. By engaging schools in this initiative, we are investing in the environmental consciousness of future generations. On this occasion, I shared with the students a simple yet powerful message – One tree, a thousand blessings.’ Each sapling plant is more than a symbol; it is a living promise of cleaner air, greener spaces, and a more responsible tomorrow. As we conclude this campaign during Van Mahotsav Week, I am proud to see our branches and teams across India come together to make this vision a reality.”
Broader ESG Leadership
This initiative builds on AU SFB’s broader ESG leadership. The Bank’s Green Fixed Deposit product has mobilized ₹1,178 crore as of March 31, 2025, with proceeds exclusively allocated to Renewable Energy and Clean Transportation sectors. AU SFB has also achieved a Sustainalytics ESG Risk Rating of 17.1 (Low Risk) and holds an AA rating in the MSCI ESG assessment.
Strengthening Climate Resilience
Furthering its commitment to climate resilience, AU SFB has partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to strengthen its understanding of nature-based risks and build capabilities to address physical and transition risks of climate change, in line with the Reserve Bank of India’s expectations.
Community Impact Commitment
Through these ongoing efforts, AU Small Finance Bank continues to champion sustainability, foster biodiversity, and create lasting impact in the communities it proudly serves.
(India CSR)
