SBI Foundation has launched two community-focused CSR initiatives worth Rs 10 crore in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, according to India CSR. The programmes were announced from Port Blair. They deal with two local needs: detecting cancer early and helping coastal communities live more safely alongside saltwater crocodiles.
Key points
- SBI Foundation has started two CSR initiatives worth Rs 10 crore in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Two mobile medical units will screen 50,000 people for cancer under SBIF Cancer Care.
- A total of 2,100 safety kits will support communities in areas where saltwater crocodiles are found.
- The projects are run with partners Ashray Foundation and Dakshin Foundation.
The two initiatives
The first is SBIF Cancer Care, carried out with Ashray Foundation. The project has set a target of screening 50,000 people across the islands, using two mobile medical units.
The second is SBIF CONSERW: Reducing Human–Saltwater Crocodile Conflict in the Andaman Islands. It is being implemented with Dakshin Foundation. As part of this work, 2,100 safety kits will be provided to communities living in areas prone to saltwater crocodiles.
Together, the two programmes aim to improve access to preventive healthcare, strengthen awareness and support referral pathways for patients. They also seek to promote safer livelihood practices in vulnerable coastal locations.
Launch event
The launch was attended by Prof. (Dr.) Dinesh Sharma, Lt. Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. G. S. Rana, Deputy Managing Director (HR) and Chief Development Officer of State Bank of India, was also present. Officials of SBI Foundation and representatives of the partner organisations took part as well.
Why it matters
The islands are spread across the sea, and reaching health services can be difficult for many residents. Mobile medical units can take cancer screening to people where they live. Early detection and a clear path to referral can help patients get timely care.
The crocodile project speaks to people who live and work near the coast. Safety kits and better awareness are meant to reduce conflict between humans and wildlife, while also supporting safer ways of earning a living.
The available report does not give further details on timelines, locations of screening camps or what the safety kits contain. Readers looking for those details should watch for updates from SBI Foundation and its partners.
