SBI Foundation Andaman Projects: SBI Foundation has launched two major Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives worth ₹10 crore in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, focusing on cancer care, accessible healthcare and wildlife conservation. The initiatives aim to improve access to early cancer detection and strengthen the safety of local communities living and working in areas where human saltwater crocodile interactions are reported.
SBI Foundation Andaman Projects
The two projects include SBIF Cancer Care, implemented in partnership with Ashray Foundation, and SBIF CONSERW: Reducing Human–Saltwater Crocodile Conflict in the Andaman Islands, in partnership with Dakshin Foundation. The launch event was attended by Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lieutenant Governor Prof. (Dr.) Dinesh Sharma, G.S. Rana, Deputy Managing Director (HR) and Chief Development Officer of State Bank of India (SBI), along with senior officials from SBI, SBI Foundation and partner organisations.
Two Mobile Medical Units to Screen 50,000 People for Cancer
Under the SBIF Cancer Care initiative, SBI Foundation will strengthen cancer screening, awareness and access to timely diagnosis and treatment across the islands. The project will deploy two dedicated mobile medical units to screen 50,000 people for breast, cervical and oral cancers. These mobile units will help take screening facilities closer to communities, particularly those who may face difficulties accessing healthcare services.
In addition to screening, the initiative aims to reach 2 lakh people through community awareness programmes and cancer prevention sessions. The project will also facilitate referrals for individuals identified as being at high risk to advanced cancer treatment facilities. Eligible patients will also receive support in accessing government healthcare schemes, including Ayushman Bharat, to improve their access to treatment.
2,100 Safety Kits to Protect Fishing Communities
The second initiative, SBIF CONSERW, focuses on reducing human–saltwater crocodile conflict in the Andaman Islands. In partnership with Dakshin Foundation, SBI Foundation is working to improve the safety of fishing communities and people involved in livelihood activities in crocodile-prone areas of South Andaman.
As part of the project, 2,100 safety kits will be distributed to community members. The initiative will also organise awareness programmes and outreach workshops to educate people about safety measures and encourage safer practices while working in areas where saltwater crocodiles are present. The project aims to reduce risks to local communities while promoting better understanding and coexistence between people and wildlife.
Lieutenant Governor Highlights Importance of Community Safety
Speaking at the launch, Lieutenant Governor Prof. (Dr.) Dinesh Sharma said that development should focus on building a healthy and secure society while protecting the natural environment for future generations. He appreciated SBI Foundation and its partner organisations for taking up initiatives that address healthcare challenges and protect the lives and livelihoods of fishing communities. He also highlighted the importance of community participation, scientific interventions and sustainable solutions.
G.S. Rana, DMD (HR) and CDO, State Bank of India, said that the initiatives reflect SBI’s commitment to building an inclusive, accessible and sustainable society. He added that improving cancer screening and reducing human–crocodile conflict would contribute to meaningful and lasting changes in the lives of people in the islands.
Swapan Dhar, Managing Director of SBI Foundation, said the Foundation would continue to support locally relevant solutions to social and environmental challenges through partnerships with specialised organisations. Through these two initiatives, SBI Foundation aims to strengthen healthcare access, improve community safety and support environmental conservation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
With these initiatives, SBI Foundation aims to create a long-term positive impact in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by addressing two important challenges: access to healthcare and the safety of local communities. By bringing cancer screening services closer to people and providing safety support to fishing communities, the Foundation is working towards a healthier, safer and more sustainable future. The partnership with Ashray Foundation and Dakshin Foundation will further strengthen these efforts through specialised expertise and community participation.
