Lucknow: State Bank of India (SBI), through its CSR arm SBI Foundation, launched various CSR initiatives at SBI Local Head Office (LHO), Lucknow, reaffirming its commitment to community development, livelihood generation, social inclusion and the preservation of India’s national heritage. The initiatives were launched by Shri Ashwini Kumar Tewari, Managing Director (Corporate Banking & Subsidiaries), SBI, in the presence of Shri Dipesh Raj, Chief General Manager, SBI LHO Lucknow.
Several key initiatives have been inaugurated, including the release of a book highlighting developmental initiatives in Rudha village, Sitapur, under ‘SBI Sammaan – Homage to the National Heroes’, honouring Kargil War hero and Param Vir Chakra awardee Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey. The dignitaries also launched ‘Samarpan’, featuring works by winners of the Nirala Chhatra Sahitya Sammaan 2026, and felicitated the young writers. The award promotes Hindi literature among youth while honouring poet Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’. A book on Anganwadi development initiatives under ‘SBI Harshoday’ in Gorakhpur District was also released.
The event also marked the launch of ‘Livelihood on Wheels’, an initiative creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities (PwDs). Vehicles were handed over to beneficiaries for livelihood generation. The event also featured an interaction with youth selected in armed- police forces after training at youth centres under the SBI Sammaan & Gram Seva projects.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Ashwini Kumar Tewari, Managing Director SBI, highlighted, “Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey’s valour and supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War continue to inspire generations. He appreciated the recognition of young literary talent through the Nirala Chhatra Sahitya Sammaan. He further emphasised SBI’s commitment under SBI Sammaan project for honouring national heroes through developmental initiatives in their native villages, connecting future generations with their roots, values and enduring legacy.”
Dipesh Raj, CGM, SBI LHO Lucknow, highlighted SBI foundations efforts in heritage preservation, community development and inclusive livelihoods, encouraging PwDs and youth in their respective journeys.
Pratyush Mehrotra, President & COO, SBI Foundation, outlined key initiatives across Uttar Pradesh, reaffirming the Foundation’s commitment towards development.
The event was attended by Manmohan Pandey, family member of Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, PVC; representatives of partner organizations Sahbhagi Shikshan Kendra, SUVIDHA, Safe Society and Cheshire Disability Trust; beneficiaries; award-winning students; youths, staff from SBI and SBI Foundation.
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