31 October 2026 | Port Blair: SBI Foundation launched two impactful initiatives in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, reaffirming its commitment to community well-being, accessible healthcare, and environmental conservation. The initiatives include SBIF Cancer Care, in partnership with Ashray Foundation, and SBIF CONSERW: Reducing Human–Saltwater Crocodile Conflict in the Andaman Islands, in partnership with Dakshin Foundation.
The event was graced by the Hon’ble Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Prof. (Dr.) Dinesh Sharma, G.S. Rana, DMD (HR) and CDO, SBI, and other dignitaries of State Bank of India, SBI Foundation, and partner organisations.
These initiatives by SBI Foundation represent a significant step towards addressing critical healthcare needs and strengthening human–wildlife coexistence in the islands through community-centred interventions, awareness, and sustainable solutions.
SBIF Cancer Care
The SBIF Cancer Care project aims to strengthen cancer screening, awareness, and access to timely diagnosis and treatment. The project will screen 50,000 people for breast, cervical, and oral cancers through two dedicated Mobile Screening Units. It will also reach 2,00,000 people through community awareness and cancer prevention sessions.
The initiative will facilitate referrals for high-risk individuals to advanced cancer care facilities and support eligible patients in accessing government healthcare schemes, including Ayushman Bharat.
SBIF CONSERW: Reducing Human–Saltwater Crocodile Conflict in the Andaman Islands
To mitigate Human-Saltwater Crocodile conflict, SBI Foundation has partnered with Dakshin Foundation to enhance the safety of communities engaged in fishing and other livelihood activities in saltwater crocodile-prone areas of South Andaman.
The project will facilitate the distribution of 2,100 safety kits to support community safety and promote safer practices in areas affected by human–saltwater crocodile interactions. It will also undertake awareness and outreach workshops to strengthen community understanding of safety measures and encourage informed responses to potential conflict situations.
Dr. Dinesh Sharma, Hon’ble Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, said during the event, “The true measure of development lies in building a healthy and secure society while preserving the natural environment for generations to come. The launch of SBI Foundation’s Cancer Care and Fishermen Safety initiatives in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands reflects this holistic vision of development. While the Cancer Care initiative seeks to strengthen early detection, awareness and access to timely treatment, the Fishermen Safety initiative focuses on protecting the lives and livelihoods of local fishing communities while promoting harmonious coexistence with wildlife. These initiatives underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing critical social, health and environmental challenges through community participation, scientific interventions and sustainable solutions. I commend SBI Foundation, its implementing partners and all stakeholders for their commitment towards improving community health & well-being and safeguarding the unique ecological heritage of the Islands. I am confident that these efforts will create meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.”
G.S Rana, DMD(HR) & CDO, State Bank of India, said, “By expanding its footprint of Corporate Social Responsibility in Andaman and Nicobar, State Bank of India reaffirms its commitment to building an inclusive, accessible and sustainable society. The interventions undertaken in these remote corners are in alignment with the efforts of the Government of India. By supporting cancer screening and prevention, alongside efforts to mitigate human–saltwater crocodile conflict, we aim to contribute to meaningful, lasting change in the lives of communities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These initiatives reflect our belief that responsible development must place people, communities, and the environment at its core.”
“SBI Foundation continues to expand its footprint across India by supporting locally relevant solutions to critical social and environmental challenges. Through Cancer Care initiatives, we aim to improve access to cancer screening, awareness, and referral services, while environment and wildlife conservation efforts seek to strengthen community safety and promote coexistence between people and wildlife. Our partnerships with Ashray Foundation and Dakshin Foundation bring together specialised expertise and community engagement to address these needs. We remain committed to building resilient communities and advancing sustainable, long-term impact through collaborative action,” said Swapan Dhar, Managing Director, SBI Foundation.
Together, these initiatives reflect SBI Foundation’s commitment to creating meaningful and lasting impact by addressing critical community needs while advancing environmental sustainability. Through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions, the Foundation continues to support solutions that strengthen community resilience, improve access to essential services, and contribute to a safer and more sustainable future for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.