SBI Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of the State Bank of India, has forged a strategic partnership with the Indian Council of Agriculture Research–Indian Institute of Rice Research (ICAR-IIRR) in Hyderabad. The collaboration formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is set to increase the adoption of direct seeded rice (DSR) across agricultural landscapes.

Revolutionizing Rice Cultivation

Direct seeding, a crop establishment method, involves the direct sowing of rice seeds onto the field, departing from the conventional approach of nurturing seedlings in nurseries before transplantation into flooded fields. Recognized for its efficiency, sustainability, and economic viability, DSR offers expedited planting and maturation processes, conserves crucial resources like water and labor, facilitates mechanization, and curtails greenhouse gas emissions implicated in climate change.

Empowering Agriculture through Collaboration

During the MoU signing ceremony, a cheque of Rs 4.50 crore was handed over by Challa Srinivasulu Setty, Head of the Foundation’s Executive Committee and SBI Managing Director (International Banking, Global Markets and Technology), to officials of the ICAR-IIRR. Setty reiterated the foundation's commitment to embodying the ethos of the State Bank Group by fostering ethical interventions that propel growth, equality, and societal progress.

Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Nationwide

Director of ICAR-IIRR, Raman Meenakshi Sundaram, expressed gratitude for the support extended by the SBI Foundation in promoting DSR, particularly in regions like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Punjab, and Haryana, where the cultivation method is gaining rapid traction. Rajesh Kumar, Chief General Manager of SBI Hyderabad Circle, emphasized the manifold benefits of transitioning from traditional puddled transplanted rice (PTR) to DSR, highlighting savings in irrigation water, reduced cultivation costs, and shortened crop durations.

SBI Foundation Announces Commencement of SBI Youth for India Fellowship Program

In a parallel CSR initiative, the SBI Foundation has announced the initiation of applications for the 12th batch of its esteemed SBI Youth for India Fellowship program. This endeavor presents young individuals with an opportunity to actively contribute to rural development endeavors across the length and breadth of India.