SBI Managing Director Launches Various CSR Initiatives in Lucknow
SBI Managing Director Launches Various CSR Initiatives in Lucknow
Lucknow, October 30, 2026: State Bank of India (SBI), through its CSR arm, SBI Foundation, launched several corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives at the SBI Local Head Office (LHO) in Lucknow. The initiatives reaffirm the Bank’s commitment to community development, livelihood generation, social inclusion and preservation of India’s national heritage.
The initiatives were inaugurated by Shri Ashwini Kumar Tewari, Managing Director (Corporate Banking & Subsidiaries), SBI, in the presence of Shri Dipesh Raj, Chief General Manager, SBI LHO Lucknow.
Among the key initiatives was the release of a book documenting developmental activities undertaken in Rudha village of Sitapur under the ‘SBI Sammaan – Homage to the National Heroes’ project. The initiative pays tribute to Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, the Kargil War hero and recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
The dignitaries also released ‘Samarpan’, a collection featuring the works of winners of the Nirala Chhatra Sahitya Sammaan 2026, and felicitated the young writers. The award seeks to encourage Hindi literature among young people while commemorating the legacy of renowned poet Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’. In addition, a book highlighting Anganwadi development initiatives undertaken in Gorakhpur district under the ‘SBI Harshoday’ project was released.
The event also marked the launch of ‘Livelihood on Wheels’, an initiative aimed at creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities (PwDs). Vehicles were handed over to beneficiaries to help them pursue income-generating activities and become more economically independent.Another highlight was an interaction with young people selected for the armed police forces after receiving training at youth centres supported under the SBI Sammaan and Gram Seva projects.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Ashwini Kumar Tewari said that Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey’s courage and supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War continued to inspire generations. He appreciated the recognition of emerging literary talent through the Nirala Chhatra Sahitya Sammaan. He also emphasised that, through the SBI Sammaan project, the Bank was honouring national heroes by supporting developmental initiatives in their native villages and connecting future generations with their roots, values and legacy.
Shri Dipesh Raj, Chief General Manager, SBI LHO Lucknow, highlighted the SBI Foundation’s efforts in heritage preservation, community development and inclusive livelihood generation. He encouraged persons with disabilities and young beneficiaries to continue pursuing their goals.Shri Pratyush Mehrotra, President and COO, SBI Foundation, outlined the Foundation’s major initiatives across Uttar Pradesh and reiterated its commitment to supporting the state’s development.
The event was attended by Shri Manmohan Pandey, a family member of Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, PVC; representatives of partner organisations Sahbhagi Shikshan Kendra, SUVIDHA, Safe Society and Cheshire Disability Trust; beneficiaries; award-winning students; youth participants; and officials and employees of SBI and SBI Foundation.