SBI has allocated Rs. 6.08 crore specifically for CSR projects across 80 aspirational districts, targeting key areas such as healthcare, education, water and sanitation, and livelihood development.
NEW DELHI (India CSR): For over two centuries, the State Bank of India (SBI) has built a legacy of adapting to the needs of its customers and communities while embracing innovation. As a leader in India’s banking sector, SBI is equally committed to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), using its influence and resources to uplift marginalized groups. Through its targeted CSR efforts in India’s aspirational districts, SBI is creating lasting impact and enabling growth in regions that need it most.
A Commitment to Community Transformation
In the fiscal year 2024, SBI allocated an impressive Rs. 502.32 crore toward CSR activities, dedicating Rs. 301.24 crore of this to the SBI Foundation for initiatives that address the needs of vulnerable communities. The bank implemented 173 CSR projects across 80 aspirational districts, identified by the government for focused interventions due to low socio-economic indicators. These projects aim to address the root causes of poverty and inequality, fostering inclusive development and ensuring resources reach underserved communities.
Sustainable Development for Aspirational Districts
SBI has dedicated Rs. 6.08 crore specifically for CSR projects in 80 aspirational districts, focusing on critical areas like healthcare, education, water and sanitation, and livelihood. These initiatives help bridge development gaps and provide opportunities for sustainable growth in India’s most underdeveloped regions.
“Your Bank has undertaken 173 CSR initiatives in 80 Aspirational Districts during FY2024.”, Dinesh Kumar Khara, Chairman of the SBI said.
Gram Seva: Building Holistic Growth in Villages
The SBI Gram Seva program, a flagship initiative of the SBI Foundation since 2017, exemplifies the bank’s commitment to rural upliftment. With a focus on areas like education, healthcare, sanitation, women’s empowerment, and infrastructure, Gram Seva has expanded in FY2024 to cover an additional 30 villages in aspirational districts, now totaling 180 villages across 27 states. This initiative has positively impacted over 2 lakh individuals, advancing long-term resilience and sustainability at the village level.
| Total CSR Spending (2024) | Rs. 502.32 crore, with Rs. 301.24 crore for vulnerable communities. |
| Aspirational Districts Focus | 80 districts targeted for inclusive development. |
| Gram Seva Program | Expanded to 30 new villages, benefiting 2 lakh+ people across 27 states. |
| School Upgrades | Improved 232 primary schools to enhance learning. |
| Healthcare Initiatives | Upgraded 158 health centers and constructed toilets. |
| Women Empowerment | Distributed 4,600 sewing machines for livelihood support. |
| Support for PwDs | Provided 2,300 wheelchairs for improved mobility. |
| Menstrual Hygiene | Distributed 2.19 lakh sanitary pads to schoolgirls. |
| Cleanliness Drives | Participated in Swachhata Pakhwada with beach cleanups and no-plastic campaigns. |
| Coastal Safety | Donated life buoys to Indian Coast Guard for disaster relief. |
| Aspirational District Allocation | Rs. 6.08 crore specifically for aspirational district projects. |
Infrastructure and Welfare Development
Beyond financial support, SBI’s CSR approach includes hands-on improvements in community infrastructure. In the past year, SBI’s efforts spanned diverse states, focusing on critical development projects:
- School Upgrades: SBI upgraded 232 government primary schools, creating better learning environments for children.
- Support for Early Education: The bank aided 355 Anganwadis, enhancing nutrition and early education for young children.
- Healthcare Accessibility: By upgrading 158 primary health centers, SBI has made healthcare more accessible for rural populations.
- Welfare for the Vulnerable: SBI renovated 75 old age homes and 57 orphanages, offering safer and more comfortable living conditions.
In a continued commitment to social welfare, SBI also distributed 2,300 wheelchairs to persons with disabilities, 4,600 sewing machines to underprivileged women, and over 2.19 lakh sanitary pad kits to school-going girls, addressing both livelihood opportunities and menstrual health.
Promoting Cleanliness with Swachhata Pakhwada
Under the Swachhata Pakhwada campaign, SBI organized neighborhood and beach cleanliness drives, distributed eco-friendly jute bags to discourage plastic usage, and constructed toilets in underserved areas to improve sanitation. These efforts underscore SBI’s dedication to environmental consciousness and public health.
Coastal Safety and Disaster Relief
SBI’s CSR efforts extend beyond rural communities. Through the provision of six remote-operated self-propelled life buoy crafts to the Indian Coast Guard, SBI enhances safety for coastal populations and supports disaster relief initiatives. This approach reflects SBI’s understanding of the unique needs of diverse communities, including those in maritime areas.
Fostering Education and Skill Development
Education and skill development are cornerstones of SBI’s CSR strategy, with initiatives focusing on school infrastructure improvements and reducing dropout rates in aspirational districts. Skill development programs equip women and youth with tools and training, empowering them for economic self-reliance. By providing sewing machines and livelihood support, SBI has helped rural women achieve financial independence and contributed to economic development.
Empowering Women and Promoting Health
Women’s empowerment is integral to SBI’s CSR mission. Initiatives like distributing sanitary pad kits and livelihood support through sewing machines promote gender equality and economic empowerment. Additionally, SBI’s work in upgrading primary health centers and sanitation facilities in rural areas enhances public health and well-being for marginalized communities.
A Longstanding Dedication to Social Impact
SBI’s philosophy of “banking for the community” drives its CSR agenda. By focusing on aspirational districts, SBI is contributing to India’s growth story and making a profound impact in regions with the most pressing needs. From the Gram Seva program to Swachhata Pakhwada, SBI’s CSR efforts continue to foster an inclusive India where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. Through its holistic and focused interventions, SBI is setting an example as a responsible corporate citizen committed to sustainable community development.
(India CSR)
