CSR Initiatives

1. Menstrual Hygiene – Project for preventive healthcare measures for Women

The Bank undertook an extensive awareness campaign on menstrual hygiene and utilized the services of ‘Live For Others – Being Helpful Foundation’, an MCA registered organization, for project implementation, as per the following details;

• Campaign covered all the 20 districts of J&K.
• Sustainability ensured through community involvement by way of collaborating with volunteers, educational institutions, local stakeholders including panchs, sarpanchs, SHGs, female leaders etc
• Impact and effectiveness ensured by imparting awareness in local languages/dialects.
• 100 Awareness camps/seminars (Around 5 in each district) with participant age groups varying from 12+ girls to women up to the age of 52. Thousands of girls and women benefit from the initiative.
• Focus was on removing shyness, education & awareness regarding women hygiene, removing myths & following scientific approach and, understanding the benefits of sanitary napkins and carrying this message forward
• Free distribution of 500000 (Five Lac) Ayushman Bharat sanitary pads/napkin during the course of the campaign

2. NAJAATH – An initiative for Tobacco and Drug free Society

Conscious of the fact that Jammu and Kashmir is facing a growing menace that threatens not only the health and well-being of its residents but also the social fabric of the community, J&K Bank initiated a campaign for a drug and tobacco free society in collaboration with Department of Health Services and Department of Education. The project was initiated on a pilot-basis in twin cities of Jammu and Srinagar through SPVLG Foundation. The major highlights of the initiative were;

Awareness and Prevention

• Awareness Programmes and targeted psycho-educational sessions within the community through Community Counselling Centers (CCCs) and educational institutions.
• Community outreach programs to educate individuals and families about the detrimental effects of drug and tobacco use.
• Utilizing mass media platforms, such as FM radio, TV (preferably DDK) and social media, to amplify the message of a drug and tobacco-free lifestyle. Directorate of Health Services J&K provided relevant/ professional resource for the purpose.
• Collaboration with local health authorities to maximize the impact of the awareness campaign.

Treatment and Support

• Introduce the patients to accessible and proven-treatment-options.
• Creation of a referral network for individuals requiring specialized care.
• Counselling and psychological support to foster long-term recovery through CCCs, which provide safe and secure drop-in space for drug users in the community. These centers had the provision of screening, assessment and psycho-social counselling and provided referral and linkage to treatment and rehabilitation services for drug dependents.
• Providing nicotine patches chronic smokers (identified by the concerned Health Department) to aid in the process of rehabilitation

3. Ambulances to GMC Jammu and SKIMS Soura

Proper healthcare is essential for the well-being and prosperity of any region, and this importance is magnified in a place like Jammu and Kashmir where climatic conditions can be harsh and access to healthcare is often challenging due to the rugged terrain. Beyond emergencies, healthcare is necessary for routine medical needs, maternal and child health, and the management of chronic diseases and with growing population, the need for augmentation of healthcare facilities becomes all the more important to cater to the diverse healthcare needs of the population. Although Government-run healthcare facilities are providing all the required services but the huge footfall of patients affects the overall quality of the service. Carrying forward its legacy of complimenting Government’s efforts in augmenting the overall health infrastructure, Bank provided two ambulances to GMC Jammu (and its associated hospitals) and one ambulance to SKIMS Soura.

Carrying forward its legacy of complimenting Government’s efforts in augmenting the overall health infrastructure, Bank provided two ambulances to GMC Jammu (and its associated hospitals) and one ambulance to SKIMS Soura.

• One of the two ambulances (basic patient-transport vehicle) required at GMC Jammu is being used at State Cancer Institute GMC Jammu while the second (critical care ambulance) at Super Speciality Hospital Jammu. Catering to a huge patient inflow, with patients from far off districts like Rajouri, Poonch, Dada, Kishtwar too relying for specialised treatment on the prestigious GMC and its associated hospitals, improving ambulance availability related services is of immense importance.
• The fully-equipped critical care ambulance required at SKIMS Soura (the largest healthcare facility in the region catering to over 1.5 million patients annually) will help in transportation of patients with critical injuries as the facility of a critical care ambulance is currently lacking at SKIMS Soura. Further, owing to the huge patient footfall at the hospital from all over the region, requirement of such a facility was the need of the hour as it can reasonably improve the health-care infrastructure of the hospital, thereby bringing relief to hundreds, and even thousands, of patients annually.

4. Providing Medical and Allied equipment to SKIMS Soura and GMC Jammu

One of the key components of an efficient healthcare system is the availability of medical and allied equipment. These tools are the lifeline of healthcare providers, aiding in diagnostics, treatment, and patient care. In a region as geographically varied as J&K, having access to modern medical and allied equipment is crucial for diagnosing and managing a wide range of health conditions. This includes testing machine, patient-transport trolleys, privacy screens etc, as well as surgical instruments that enable intricate surgeries. Moreover, the need extends to basic hospital amenities likes seating benches, fans, furniture etc which ensure the overall quality of healthcare services

In this connection, Bank funded the project of providing various medicals and allied equipment to SKIMS Soura and GMC Jammu. The equipment include;

• Machinery/Equipment for Department of Urology Super Speciality Hospital GMC Jammu
• 200 + wall and pedestal fans for GMC, SMGS Hospital, Bone & Joint Hospital, Super Speciality Hospital, State Cancer Institute (approximate cost Rs.6.30 lacs)
• One Gastro-scope for the Department of Gastroenterology, SKIMS, Srinagar
• 40+ privacy screens for wards at SKIMS, Srinagar
• 80-100 seating benches for attendants visiting SKIMS, Srinagar

5. Providing hearing aids and speech therapy to persons with hearing & speech impairment

Catering to the needs of the specially-abled is of paramount importance in building an inclusive and equitable society. By providing equal opportunities and accessibility, we not only empower individuals-with-disabilities but also enrich our communities. It's a matter of social justice and human rights to ensure that people-with-disabilities can participate fully in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and social interactions. In the case of hearing and speech impaired individuals, the significance of catering to their needs is even more pronounced. Communication being a fundamental human need, these individuals face unique challenges in this regard and access to sign language interpreters, captioning, speech therapy and technologies like cochlear implants can make a world of difference in their lives, enabling them to connect with others, access education, and pursue fulfilling careers.

In this connection, Bank collaborated with ‘Voluntary Medicare Society’, a well-established and credible organization serving the cause of specially-abled in Kashmir for the past 50 years, to conduct hearing and speech assessment of the people and provide free hearing aids to the needy and deserving. The major highlights of the project include;

• Six (06) speech & audiology medical camps at different location in Kashmir during which ENT specialists & speech therapists examined the persons with hearing and speech impairments.
• More than 500 people in Kashmir region were provided free-of-cost hearing-aids.
• Community based and Institutional Speech Therapy provided to persons with speech impairment by certified Speech Therapists over a a period of six months
• 5000+ potential beneficiaries (500+ direct beneficiaries of hearing aids and over 4500 beneficiaries of assessment camps and speech therapies)

6. Construction of mechanized Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at District Hospital Bandipora

Importance of Wastewater treatment assumes more significance in the contemporary societies especially in developing nations like India. The main goal of wastewater treatment facilities is to protect people as well as local ecosystems, from harmful elements found in wastewater. Water treatment facilities are designed to speed up the process of purifying water because the natural process can’t keep up with the amount of waste society produces. And this holds all the more importance for public facilities like hospitals.

In the aforementioned context the 150 bedded District Hospital of Bandipora, located in a low-lying marshy land just half-a-kilometer away from the banks of the Wullar Lake, was provided support under CSR for setting up a Sewage Treatment Plant. The lake and its surrounding marshes provide habitat to important natural wildlife, thereby making it an ecologically hyper-sensitive area. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the context of environmental sustainability, particularly in wastewater treatment, is imperative in addressing the global challenge of water pollution and resource depletion. Given the escalating strain on water bodies due to various modern-day factors, advanced treatment technologies like setting-up of Sewage Treatment Plants can contribute a lot to the preservation of biodiversity, public health, and the overall well-being of communities.

7. Patient Transport Trolleys and Wheelchairs to the Govt./ Semi Govt. Hospitals of J&K and Ladakh

The importance of a standard healthcare system in any society cannot be over-stated and given the huge load on the existing government-run healthcare facilities especially in J&K and Ladakh, it has become imperative for responsible corporates like J&K Bank to step-in and compliment and support the efforts of the Government through innovatively conceived projects under Corporate Social Responsibility. With this understanding and context, a project of providing patient-transport trolleys and wheelchairs was devised to provide Patient-Transport Trolleys and Foldable Wheelchairs to different government-run hospitals in the twin UTs of J&K and Ladakh and augment the existing health-infra. Under the project, the Bank provided the following items to the District Hospitals of J&K & Ladakh and GMC Jammu/Srinagar and its associated Hospitals;

• 53 Hydraulic Casualty Trolleys
• 179 Stretcher-on-trolleys
• 197 Foldable wheelchairs

The initiative reached all the districts and allowed to augment the Health Infrastructure especially in the rural and far flung district hospitals in the larger interest of patient care.

8. Ambulance to Health Centre of SKUAST-K

Good healthcare contributes immensely towards a healthier and more productive society by ensuring timely and effective medical interventions, promoting disease prevention and health education, enhancing life quality and expectancy, reducing the burden of illness and disability, and supporting socio-economic development. Although Government-run healthcare facilities are providing all the required services but the huge footfall of patients affects the overall quality of the service. In this context, realizing the need at the Health Center of SKUAST-K, J&K Bank in the FY2023-24 provided one ambulance equipped with basic life-saving equipment to the facility.

It wouldn’t be amiss to mention that the Health centre of the University at Shalimar campus not only provides healthcare facility to the 5000 students and 2000 employees of the University, but also caters to the local community including the surrounding catchment area of Shalimar, Ishber, Tailbal and inhabitants of foreshore road.

9. Medical Equipment to Maha Bodhi Karuna Charitable Hospital

One of the key components of an efficient healthcare system is the availability of medical and allied equipment. These tools are the lifeline of healthcare providers, aiding in diagnostics, treatment, and patient care. In a region like Ladakh with difficult geographical terrain, having access to modern medical and allied equipment is crucial for diagnosing and managing a wide range of health conditions. In this regard, Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC) is, among other projects, running Mahabodhi Karuna Charitable Hospital at Ladakh since 1999. The 30-bedded Charitable Hospital at Choglamsar Ladakh is spread over an area of 28328 mt2 and is one of MIMC's many service projects wherein free external health and medical services are provided to the needy. Maha Bodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC) has been serving the people of Ladakh through their various initiatives be it in education, disaster relief, sustainable development, humanitarian services and most importantly Healthcare. Having ascertained the on-ground work carried out by MIMC, Bank provided surgical equipment to the Urological Department of their charitable hospital in the FY2023-24. The project is in line with the Bank’s larger objective of supporting and augmenting the healthcare infra of J&K and Ladakh for the welfare of people.

10. Medical equipment to Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission Hospital

Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission (SVMM) is running ‘Swami Vivekananda Charitable Hospital’ since 1970. The 40-bedded Charitable Hospital at Ambphalla Jammu is spread over an area of almost 10 Kanals and is one of SVMM’s many service projects wherein free external health and medical services are provided to the needy. The Hospital is doing a commendable job in so far as catering to the healthcare needs of the local population is concerned. The organization is making continued efforts to augment its existing infra & services and provide the best healthcare services to the patients. The Hospital has established its credibility by serving the people through their specialized medical faculties and providing free healthcare services to thousands of needy patients every year.

Augmentation of healthcare facilities and targeted CSR interventions in important areas can have a profound impact on improving healthcare accessibility, quality, and outcomes in the region which will ultimately contribute to the betterment of the lives of the people. In this regard, acknowledging the hard-work of the SVMM Hospital, Bank in the FY2023-24 provided medical equipment to the surgical unit of the Hospital under CSR.

11. Construction of Ladies Washroom at District Court Complex Jammu

Bank provided support for construction of a ladies’ washroom at District Court Complex Jammu, to provide a clean and hygienic toilet facility to the ladies visiting the Court for various purposes. The space will also serve as a safe toilet space for women in a busy public place like Court Complex. The project is also in line with objectives of Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan and fulfils Sustainable Development Goal pertaining to “ensuring access to sanitation for all”

12. Construction of pre-fab patient/attendant sheds at District Hospital Kargil

One of the key components of an efficient healthcare system is the availability & provision of attendant residential sheds in hospitals which serves as a critical and compassionate necessity in the healthcare infrastructure. These facilities serve as a supportive haven for family members and caregivers who are accompanying patients during their hospitalization. The emotional and psychological well-being of patients is significantly influenced by the presence of loved ones, offering comfort, reassurance, and a sense of security. Attendant residential sheds play a pivotal role in fostering a healing environment by ensuring that family members can stay close to their ailing relatives, especially during extended treatment periods or critical phases of illness. Moreover, these facilities alleviate the financial burden on families who might otherwise incur additional costs for temporary accommodation. In essence, the incorporation of attendant residential sheds in hospitals is an essential step towards creating a holistic and patient-centred healthcare system that recognizes the significance of familial support in the healing process.

Contributing towards this important aspect of Healthcare, Bank supported construction of of pre-fab structures (eight units) at District Hospital Kargil for the overnight stay and convenience of patients and their attendants visiting the hospital from far-off places. The structure will facilitate accommodation of 32 people with each of the eight units having a capacity of accommodating 04 people. The individual units come with basic facilities like kitchen, bathroom and sitting/sleeping area to provide a decent, secure, comfortable and convenient stay along with ensuring privacy.

Along with enhancing the level of accessibility of Govt. Health Services to all, especially those coming from economically poor background and residents of remote border areas of Kargil District, the pre-fab structures in a location like Kargil, Ladakh becomes even more pronounced given the geographical remoteness and extreme climatic conditions of the region. Bank’s support in providing residential accommodations for attendants/patients visiting District Hospital Kargil is one more socially relevant project undertaken in the Healthcare sector.

1. Financial Literacy/Awareness Campaign

Financial Literacy is combination of financial awareness, knowledge, skills, attitude, and behavior necessary to make sound financial decisions and ultimately achieve individual financial well-being and develop a sustainable financial system. Being financially aware helps people improve their understanding of financial products, concepts and risks and through information, instruction and objective advice, develop the skills and confidence to become more aware of financial risks and opportunities, to make informed choices, to know where to go for help and to take other effective actions to improve their financial well-being.

Bank in the FY2023-24 utilized the modern means of communication in disseminating important financial information which not only ensured the widest possible reach (over 5 million in aggregate), but also reiterated Bank’s resolve in being a responsible corporate citizen. Bank conducted the campaign for basic banking services, social security services, cyber security, digital banking safe banking etc through;

• 2D informative videos which were shared on Bank’s social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
• Running audio capsules on All India Radio and the FM Stations of J&K and Ladakh
• Awareness through TV programmes on Doordarshan.

2. Establishment of Library at Zanskar, Ladakh

J&K Bank collaborated with Tehsil Legal Services Committee / Munsiff Judicial Magistrate 1st Class Zanaskar to establish a public library at Zanskar, a remote sub-division of district Kargil in the Union Territory of Ladakh.

Functioning 24x7 and accessible against a nominal registration charge for the students, the library has already started playing an important role in educational development of local communities by providing access to information and resources, supporting literacy and education, promoting lifelong learning and serving as a community gathering space. Around 10000 people from a total population of around 20000 souls of the three blocks of the Zanaskar Tehsil are expected to benefit from the initiative.

3. Establishing Smart Classrooms in University of Kashmir

To ensure that quality education is provided even in the remote and far-flung areas, J&K Bank collaborated with University of Kashmir, the premier Educational Institution of Kashmir, to extend the assistance of its experienced faculty to all its affiliated colleges and satellite campuses in remote and far flung areas through advanced technological tools by which tens of thousands of students studying in satellite campuses and affiliated educational institutions will be benefitted. Under this initiative, smart-classrooms with remote connectivity were established in seven Departments of Kashmir University which will enable these departments to extend teaching assistance to remotely located institutions where such subjects are offered and will solve their problem of inadequate faculty to a reasonable extent.

The project aimed towards “promoting education” by utilizing advanced means of technology and shall prove beneficial in addressing the disparity in quality of education in cities & villages.

4. Establishing Libraries at 10 locations in Kashmir

Libraries play a pivotal role in society by serving as repositories of knowledge, culture, and history. They provide equitable access to information and resources for people of all backgrounds thereby fostering literacy, education, and intellectual growth. Libraries promote lifelong learning, critical thinking, and research skills, serving as hubs for community engagement and cultural enrichment. Additionally, they play a crucial role in preserving and archiving valuable literature and documents, ensuring that future generations have access to the collective wisdom of humanity.

Bank, in the FY2023-24, collaborated with ‘Sanjeevani Sharda Kendra Trust’, a NGO working towards safeguarding the socio-cultural and educational heritage with a special focus on educational empowerment of children and youth, to setup library-cum-reading rooms in Kashmir Valley with identified locations being Ranipora (Anantnag), Vassu (Kulgam), Kakaran (Kulgam), Sheikh Pora (Budgam), Veervan (Baramulla), Durga Mandir (Uri), Pando Mandir (Lagama-Uri) and three is Srinagar (Badami Bagh, Maharaj Gunj & Indira Nagar).

5. Establishing Smart classrooms and computer lab at SMVD Gurukul and SMVD College of Nursing

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at promoting education across different geographies serve as a transformative force, fostering sustainable development and societal well-being. Ensuring the provision of quality education in remote areas is imperative for fostering inclusive development and bridging societal disparities. By extending educational opportunities to under-served regions, we not only empower marginalized communities but also bridge educational disparities and unlock the potential of underprivileged youth to contribute to the broader socio-economic fabric. Quality education in remote areas also breaks the cycle of poverty, enhances social mobility, and cultivates local talent, ultimately nurturing a skilled workforce that can address regional challenges and drive sustainable growth. It is a crucial step toward building resilient communities and fostering a more equitable and interconnected world

Continuing its support in the field of promoting education, Bank collaborated with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Charitable Society (SMVDCS) to establish;

• Ten Smart Class Rooms (08 in SMVD Gurukul and 02 in SMVD College of Nursing)
• One Computer Lab at SMVD Gurukul

5. Establishing Smart classrooms and computer lab at SMVD Gurukul and SMVD College of Nursing

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at promoting education across different geographies serve as a transformative force, fostering sustainable development and societal well-being. Ensuring the provision of quality education in remote areas is imperative for fostering inclusive development and bridging societal disparities. By extending educational opportunities to under-served regions, we not only empower marginalized communities but also bridge educational disparities and unlock the potential of underprivileged youth to contribute to the broader socio-economic fabric. Quality education in remote areas also breaks the cycle of poverty, enhances social mobility, and cultivates local talent, ultimately nurturing a skilled workforce that can address regional challenges and drive sustainable growth. It is a crucial step toward building resilient communities and fostering a more equitable and interconnected world

Continuing its support in the field of promoting education, Bank collaborated with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Charitable Society (SMVDCS) to establish;

• Ten Smart Class Rooms (08 in SMVD Gurukul and 02 in SMVD College of Nursing)
• One Computer Lab at SMVD Gurukul

6. Contribution towards construction of Girls Hostel by Sewa Bharati at Gandoh Bhalessa, Doda

In the remote and hilly region of Gandoh Bhalessa, Doda, located approximately 220 kms from Jammu, local families faced formidable barriers in ensuring higher education for their children. Further, the region’s geographical isolation and economic challenges forced students from far-flung areas to endure daily commute of three to four hours to reach colleges thereby placing a significant financial burden on impoverished families and more often than not, owing to unaffordability, students dropped out of their studies which exacerbated illiteracy and poverty within the area. This created a vicious cycle of limited opportunities and limited growth.

To address this issue, ‘Sewa Bharati Jammu’, in line with their parent organization’s objectives, constructed a single story girls’ hostel (with a carpet area of 5643 ft2) in this challenging terrain of Gandoh Bhalessa, which, with its current capacity of 30 students, provides food, clothing, and boarding & lodging facility to the needy girls of far-flung areas thereby facilitating education and empowering girls of the region. In order to cater to the huge inflow of requests from students for accommodation, the organization expanded the capacity from 30 to 60 with the support of J&K Bank.

The hostel enables the girls of far-flung region to have equal opportunities in education. The hostel is serving as a lifeline for economically disadvantaged girl students by eliminating the obstacles that hinder their access to education thereby enabling them to aspire for a brighter future free of poverty and illiteracy. This not only helps promotion of education but empowers the community in general and women in particular. Expanding the capacity of the hostel helped extend the opportunity and facility to more such deserving girls from under-privileged regions and sections.

7. One School-bus to Humanity Welfare Organization helpline’s Zaiba Aapa School for specially-abled students

‘Humanity Welfare Organization Helpline’ is a not-for-profit organization established in the year 2003 with the objective of working towards the welfare of persons with disabilities with a focus on specially-abled children. The NGO, apart from running various skill development and employment generation programmes for specially-abled youth also deals with in-house education and rehabilitation of around 130 children with multiple disabilities like hearing, speech & visual impairment, cerebral palsy, autism, down’s syndrome etc. through its school namely “Zaiba Apa Institute of inclusive education”. The school imparts free formal education and other varied specialized training programs like Braille for Children with Blindness, sign language courses for the hearing & speech impaired and activities of daily living trainings for the children with mental disabilities. In addition, physiotherapy and extra-curricular activities like sports, music, craft and mobility trainings are also provided to the children.

Acknowledging the effort and hard-work of the organization, Bank provided one 30-seater school bus to the school for safe and secure to-and-fro transportation services of the specially-abled children. The project is Bank’s humble contribution towards ensuring care of such disadvantaged sections of the society.

8. School Bus to Army Goodwill School Harka Bahadur Kargil

In Ladakh, where the geographical remoteness and harsh climatic conditions pose significant challenges, Army Goodwill Schools serve as vital educational institutions, bridging the gap in access to education. These school have achieved remarkable success in providing education and fostering development in challenging environments and have significantly increased literacy rates and educational access thereby contributing to the empowerment of local communities.

Army Goodwill School, Harka Bahadur (named after Subedar Harka Bahadur, MVC of 1/5 Gorkha Regiment) is one of the many Goodwill schools operating under the auspices of Indian Army in the harsh and difficult geographical area of Kargil and is serving the educational needs of under-privileged students of border villages. Established in 1995, the school is located six kilometers from Kargil and has classes up to 10th standard with 541 under-privileged students currently enrolled. Lack of transport facility hindered enrolling more students as the daily commute in the harsh terrain often was acting as a deterrent.

Realizing the need, Bank provided a School Bus to the school for the welfare of the children. A dedicated school bus will ensure safe and reliable transportation, overcoming geographical barriers and enabling a higher attendance rate thereby promoting inclusivity by making education accessible to all. It also enhances the overall safety of students, especially during adverse weather conditions, contributing to a more conducive learning environment. This initiative not only facilitates academic progress but also emphasizes the importance of education by eliminating transportation hurdles, making it clear that every child's educational journey is valued. Moreover, the school bus serves as a symbol of commitment to the community, reinforcing the idea that education is a cornerstone for individual growth, community development, and overall societal progress in the unique context of Ladakh.

9. Smart classes in Sainik School Nagrota

In the contemporary world, the integration of modern tools and technology has revolutionized the educational landscape. These tools, ranging from interactive software to online platforms, enhance the learning experience by providing dynamic and engaging ways to acquire information. They promote collaboration, creativity, and adaptability, preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving globalized society. The use of modern tools in education not only facilitates access to a vast pool of information but also cultivates a tech-savvy and innovative mind-set. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the symbiotic relationship between education and modern tools becomes increasingly crucial, laying the foundation for a knowledgeable, skilled, and adaptable citizenry. Further, as per the guidelines of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, much importance has been given to the integration of technology and use of smart classrooms and smart boards in the teaching process.

In this context, Bank supported establishment of eight smart classrooms in Sainik School Nagrota for providing education to the students by utilizing the modern means of teaching. Established in 1970 Sainik Schools Society, Sainik School Nagrota is located at the serene location on the banks of river Tawi. The school is affiliated with CBSE with 500 cadets currently enrolled and is the northern most & only such boarding school in the UTs of J&K and Ladakh. For the last more than five decades, the school has been doing a yeoman’s service by preparing students academically, physically and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA) and to join the Indian Armed forces as Officers. The school has consistently contributed towards its primary role as a feeder institution to the Armed Forces and contributing in Nation Building by producing well-disciplined citizens.

Bank’s initiative is aimed at promoting education as such initiatives serve as a transformative force in fostering sustainable development and societal well-being.

10. School bus and smart classes to Chinar Kashmir's hostel for orphan and destitute children

Education plays a pivotal role in shaping individuals and societies, serving as a powerful catalyst for personal and collective growth. By fostering critical thinking, knowledge acquisition, and skill development, it empowers individuals to navigate complexities, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Moreover, education fuels economic progress by nurturing a skilled workforce, promoting innovation, and fostering an environment conducive to societal advancement. It forms the cornerstone of progress, equity, and sustainable development, serving as a beacon of hope for a brighter and more inclusive future. However, ensuring equal access to education for all still remains a challenge in our society and various Non-government organizations are working hard to bridge this gap and ‘Child Nurture and Relief Kashmir (CHINAR Kashmir)’ is one such organization. The organization was established in 2004 with a mission to support orphans, destitute children, women, and youth in Jammu & Kashmir. CHINAR Kashmir operates several innovative programs aimed at the social and economic upliftment of women and youth, ensuring familial care and education for destitute children, and offering material support to families in need. In addition to their core programs, they have been deeply involved in disaster relief and rehabilitation efforts in Kashmir since 2004.

CHINAR Home Programme is a facility run by the organization since 2004 for orphaned and destitute children in their hostel in Khanpora Budgam to provide care and support to children who have lost their parent(s). These destitute and orphan children mostly belong to the rural areas of Kupwara, Bandipora, Budgam, Kishtawar & Kulgam and are taken care of in a familial environment by CHINAR. The children are provided quality education in good private schools besides in-house tuition and all their expenses are borne by CHINAR including the transportation of children to and from the schools. J&K Bank provided support to CHINAR Kashmir for one school bus and four smart classes to be established at the hostel. The project is also in line with the Sustainable Development Goal 4 which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. This goal supports the reduction of disparities and inequities in education, both in terms of access and quality.

1. Upgrading Infrastructure of Rural Self-Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs)

JKBRSETI Society is running 12 RSETIs in 12 Districts of the UT of J&K, providing the necessary skill and re-skill development programmes/trainings to unemployed youth especially in rural areas. Every year, over 4000 unemployed youth get training from these 12 RESTIs in varied fields. RSETIs provide a suitable training environment and a well-equipped training facility which is of great importance to meet the desired goals.

In order to construct the new RSETI buildings, improve the existing facilities and widen the scope of the trainings, CSR support to JKBRSETI Society was provided for;

• Construction of RSETI building at Poonch and Shopian
• Water purifiers, printers and salon chairs to all the 12 RSETIs

2. Homestay Entrepreneurship Training Programme in collaboration with SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India)

The scope for tourism in Kashmir is immense and with increasing interest in exploring off-beat destinations, Homestay Tourism is emerging as a solution for having basic accommodation services at cheaper rates throughout the geography. Keeping that in view, J&K Bank, in collaboration with SIDBI and their technical partner KPMG & implementing agency ‘JKDAG’, undertook a project for developing six off-beat tourist destinations by training 150 locals for establishing Homestays thereby serving the dual purpose of livelihood generation and tourism promotion.

The project was conceived with a vision to create a larger socio-economic impact as the initiative not only helped in up-skilling the stakeholders but also generate livelihood opportunities in J&K.

3. Entrepreneurship-cum-Skill Development Programme in collaboration with the (NIESBUD) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Govt. of India

In yet another endeavour to address shortage of skilled manpower with a larger objective of meeting the mounting needs and demands of the economy, J&K Bank collaborated with NIESBUD (National Institute for Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Govt. of India for a joint intervention on an Entrepreneurship cum Skill Development Programme (ESDP) in Jammu and Kashmir. The project saw 300 youth in both Jammu and Kashmir regions being trained for undertaking entrepreneurial journey.

The project highlights include;

• Capacity Building of 300 participants on Entrepreneurship Development
• Linking up 100 participants with suitable wage employment
• Mentoring and Handholding to Beneficiaries resulting into establishment of 10 Nano and Micro Enterprises
• Extended Mentoring and Handholding Support to established enterprises for 2 years through post mentoring support to Provide Escort Services for the beneficiaries to guide them periodically to ensure successful establishment of their Business Ventures and scaling up businesses.
• Scaling up of 05 existing Enterprises

4. Entrepreneurship-cum-Skill Development Programme in collaboration with the NIESBUD, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Govt. of India (in Ladakh)

Bank undertook a project in collaboration with NIESBUD (National Institute for Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development), Ministry of Skill Development, Government of India launched a separate Entrepreneurship cum Skill Development Programme (ESDP) in Ladakh to strengthen the skill development ecosystem in Union Territory. The collaboration saw 100 youth from the region (50 each in twin districts of Leh and Kargil) being trained/ skilled/ up-skilled. The programme highlights include;

• Capacity Building of 100 participants on Entrepreneurship Development
• Linking up 50 participants with suitable wage employment
• Scaling up of three existing enterprises
• Mentoring and Handholding to Beneficiaries resulting into establishment of 5 Nano and Micro Enterprises
• Extended Mentoring and Handholding Support to established enterprises for 2 years through post mentoring support to Provide Escort Services for the beneficiaries to guide them periodically to ensure successful establishment of their Business Ventures and scaling up businesses.

5. Livelihood generation project through walnut plantation in Kishtawar

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) interventions in the field of ‘livelihood generation’ have had a transformative impact on communities by contributing towards their social and economic development. The initiatives extend beyond philanthropy, as they address the root causes of poverty by fostering self-sustenance. The instant project aimed to uplift the economic status of 100 socially / economically backward families in Kishtwar District by assisting them to establish mini-orchards of walnut on their lands. Implemented by ‘Sewa Bharti Jammu’, the plantation helped create local livelihood opportunity for the families and break the vicious cycle of poverty in the region and improve their economic status by helping them establish a sustainable source of income.

Such initiatives empower local communities to cultivate orchards, creating a renewable source of income and improving overall livelihoods. Beyond economic benefits, these projects contribute to environmental sustainability as trees enhance biodiversity and promote ecological balance. CSR initiatives centered on fruit tree provision exemplify a commitment to social and environmental responsibility, demonstrating how businesses can play a crucial role in fostering long-term, positive impacts on livelihoods while simultaneously contributing to the well-being of the planet.

1. Support to Life Help Centre for Child Care – a school for specially-abled children

‘Life Help Centre for Child Care’, a Srinagar based not-for-profit organization established in the year 2008 with the objective of working towards the welfare of special-children, was provided various items/equipment required for the care and therapy of the special-children. The Bank’s support will benefit around 35 special children, enrolled in the facility, suffering from various mental and genetic disorders like hearing, speech & visual impairment, cerebral palsy, autism, Down’s syndrome etc. The items provided include;

• Occupational therapy equipment
• Surveillance setup
• Swings and games
• Cerebral Palsy Chairs and machine
• Music system
• Inverter and battery
• Exercise equipment

2. Upgrading the facilities of orphanages, institutes for specially-abled children and Old-age homes run by Department of Social Welfare J&K

Caring for orphans and specially-abled children is of paramount importance in society. These are among the most vulnerable, often lacking the support and resources that others may take for granted. Providing them with proper care, attention, and opportunities is not just a moral obligation but also crucial for their well-being and development. Caring for them not only meets their basic needs but also nurtures their self-esteem and confidence, enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives.

Apart from being a moral imperative, setting up special facilities for these children is a key aspect of providing adequate care to this vulnerable section of the society. These facilities cater to the specific needs of the beneficiaries, whether it's accessible infrastructure, specialized education, or tailored healthcare services. Such facilities also create a safe and inclusive environment where these children can thrive, learn, and grow.

To contribute in this sector, Bank joined hands with Department of Social Welfare of Jammu and Kashmir to provide certain amenities and augment the existing infra-structure of their special-care institution be it orphanages, special schools, juvenile rehab homes or senior citizen homes by providing funds for:

• Open Gym/recreational items for facilities at Jammu and Srinagar orphanages/special schools
• Two Computer labs, one each at Srinagar and Jammu orphanages
• Braille Printer (with software) for special-children of residential school for blinds at Jammu
• Recreational items for day-care old-age homes at Srinagar & Jammu

3. Dustbins to DC office Srinagar

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) interventions play a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability and civic hygiene. By incorporating responsible waste management practices into the CSR initiatives, socially-responsible corporates contribute to the creation of cleaner and healthier communities. Proper waste disposal and segregation mitigates the adverse impact of indiscriminate littering on ecosystems and public health. Through such interventions, Bank has always demonstrated a commitment to social and environmental well-being and contributed towards broader societal goals. By actively engaging in the provision of dustbins, CSR initiatives become a tangible embodiment of corporate responsibility, fostering a positive and sustainable impact on local environments and communities.

Bank in the FY2023-24 provided dustbins to D.C Office Srinagar for the convenience of the public visiting the office every day. The activity, apart from promoting cleaner and hygienic environment also contributes towards community development.

4. Construction of Fish Sale Outlet at Aspirational District Kupwara

Kupwara is one of the 117 Districts chosen by NITI Aayog under the ambitious National Level Aspirational District Programme launched by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2018. The Aspirational Districts programme aims to quickly and effectively transform these most under-developed districts across the country. With States as the main drivers, this program focuses on the strength of each district, identifying low-hanging fruits for immediate improvement and measuring progress by ranking districts on a monthly basis. Kupwara being a remote, border district has traditionally seen slow pace of development and demands Bank’s attention. Pertinently, the backwardness of the district is the very reason that Kupwara has been identified by NITI Ayog as one of the Aspirational districts.

District Administration Kupwara, under the auspices of the Aspirational District Programme, had identified a wide range of projects/ initiatives that are of vital importance for overall development of the district, particularly in Health, Education and Agriculture and allied sectors with construction of a Fish Sale outlet as one of the projects. The Sale Outlet will give a needed push in harnessing potential of Fisheries to evolve as a sub-regional economy of the area, the benefits of which will percolate to the common public of the district at large. J&K Bank collaborated with Aspirational District Administration for construction of the Fish Sale Outlet with an aim to localize Sustainable Development Goals leading to the progress of the District and the Nation.

5. Community development program of ST Village at Ganderbal

Supporting socially and economically under-privileged sections of the society crucial for fostering inclusive development and societal harmony. Kashmir, marked by its diverse demographics, faces challenges related to economic disparities and social inequalities. By extending support to backward categories, which may include marginalized communities and individuals facing economic hardships, there is an opportunity to bridge the gap and ensure that development initiatives reach all sections of the population. Initiatives aimed at empowering such communities not only enhances their socio-economic status but also contributes to the overall progress of the region by promoting a sense of inclusivity and social justice along with strengthening the foundations of a more equitable society.

Bank, in the FY2023-24, extended support to over 1000 households belonging either to ST Community/ Priority Households by providing them sustainable lighting solutions. Each of the over 1000 household were provided with a solar-lantern thereby catering to multiple aspects of the community which includes promotion of sustainable energy solutions and helping the community to avoid unhealthy & pollution causing means of lighting. The project was implemented by ‘Mool Sustainability and Research Center’.

6. Seating Benches to various institutions

Utility of seating benches in public spaces like court complexes & district administrative offices especially in the waiting spaces is of great value in terms of providing comfortable seating facilities to public/ litigants visiting these offices. The benches while being available to all prove of immense benefit to the women and specially-abled persons, especially in light of the fact that litigations and court cases are hectic and time consuming, and availability of comfortable seating arrangement can act as a great relief

Similarly, the facility is of great importance in educational institutions for the convenience of students. Proper outdoor seating places help students to improve social interaction & networking and provide informal learning spaces along with enhancing campus aesthetics.

It is with this understanding that Bank, in the FY2023-24, provided seating benches to various institutions which include;

• District Court Samba
• Jammu University’s Kathua Campus
• University of Jammu Main Campus
• District Court Srinagar
• D.C Office Doda

The sheer number of prospective beneficiaries of the initiative will be in thousands annually and the initiative reiterates Bank’s resolve of being a socially responsible corporate.

1. E-Vehicles to key educational institutions under Bank’s Green Campus initiative

Conscious of the importance that green and clean ecosystem has on the overall sustainability of life, Bank has been encouraging green sources of energy both in its operations and through innovatively conceived projects under Corporate Social Responsibility. With this understanding and context, Bank under its ambitious Green Campus initiative provided e-vehicles to;

• Central University of Jammu
• Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Rajouri
• University of Jammu
• National Institute of Technology, Srinagar

The initiative will benefit more than 15000 students and staff members of these prestigious educational institutes while contributing towards reducing carbon emissions in the campuses of these institutions.

2. Development of Modern Bus Stops/ Passenger Shed for Srinagar & Jammu Smart City Electric Bus Projects

Srinagar and Jammu are being developed as the two Smart Cities in the UT of J&K and both the cities have been actively working on their Smart City projects to enhance urban infrastructure and services. The Smart City proposals includes initiatives to improve transportation, solid waste management, water supply, and e-governance, among other aspects. The projects aim to leverage technology to enhance the overall quality of life for its residents, promote sustainable development, and create a more efficient and responsive urban environment. Implementation of smart solutions, such as intelligent traffic management systems, integrated surveillance, and the use of information technology for citizen services, is expected to contribute to the cities’ development as smart and resilient urban centers.

With multiple projects in pipeline, the two Cities are currently, among other projects, implementing the Electric Bus Project. The e-buses, apart from being an eco-friendly alternative for commute, are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for passengers which include heating and cooling system for the weather needs of the city (being introduced for the first time in India), Wheelchair accessibility for disabled by way of foldable-mechanical ramps, Digital payment option for ride booking and Real-time bus tracking though mobile application which also shows the bus routes.

Embracing e-buses aligns with the global trend towards sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Cities promoting electric public transportation projects demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, which positively impacts the public image and attractiveness. It also correlates with the preferences of environmentally conscious citizens and contributes to the global ESG goals. J&K Bank collaborated with the twin Smart Cities for development of Bus stops/Passenger Sheds for the E-Bus project in Jammu & Srinagar.

1. Supporting Agriculture Production Department’s “Kisan Sathi Chatbot” (an AI enabled virtual assistant for farmers)

To tackle various challenges faced by our farming community, the Government has devised a comprehensive strategy comprising 29 projects under the “Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP)”. These initiatives center on the principles of economy, equity, and ecology, aiming to double gross output, enhance exports, and establish sustainable and commercially viable enterprises. This aspirational program spread across agriculture & allied sectors aims to increase the CAGR of J&K to 11% in five years by transforming the agri-economy.

Agriculture Production Department have developed a ‘virtual assistant’ for farmers with an aim to empower them with a wide array of available information regarding farming methods, schemes & subsidies, cropping systems, tools & technologies, innovations, pricing, marketing, post-harvest management etc. The Artificial Intelligence-based WhatsApp Chatbot called the “Kisan Sathi Chatbot” aims to address the information gap between information and the end-user by directly providing chat support to farmers on their mobile phones and answer the questions related to all the aforesaid aspects of farmers & farming.

J&K Bank collaborated with APD to fund the Chatbot to not only promote improved & sustainable farming practices but also to help in the training and skill development of farmers, enable access to farming technology, promote livelihood diversification, help farmers in credit & market linkage and overall value addition of their crops which aligns with the broader goal of contributing to sustainable development and addressing social and environmental challenges.

1. J&K Bank Football academies

J&K Bank, has, over the decades, taken varied and substantial initiatives to promote sports culture in J&K. Football being a popular game – played, watched and appreciated locally, nationally and internationally - has always assumed primary focus of the Bank. After having established its own football team, the Bank set up two football academies almost a decade ago, one each in Jammu and Srinagar with the purpose of promoting football culture in J&K by way of encouraging, nurturing and training budding talent. Around 20 players are selected every year in each of the two academies for professional training through qualified and professional coaches. J&K Bank Football Academy has so far produced scores of players including more than 44 professional players who are playing today for different departmental and professional clubs of the country with some even having played for international clubs.

Bank in the FY2023-24 provided support to the Football Academies under Corporate Social Responsibility given the fact that Schedule vii of the Companies Act qualify measures taken for promotion of sports as an eligible CSR activity.

1. Establishment of Shina Cultural Centre at Dawar Gurez

With its deep-rooted history connected to Dardistan, the unique Shina Language, the rich treasure of culture and tradition, Gurez holds an exceptional identity. However, like other cultures the socio-economic advancements have led to the neglect of the Shina Language and Culture. Rising up to the occasion, Indian Army took a significant initiative to establish Shina Cultural Centre in Dawar Gurez with an aim to promote and safeguard the culture and language of the Dard tribe. Concious of the need to preserve and propagate this great cultural legacy, Bank collaborated with Indian Army by way of extending financial assistance to the tune of Rs.10.00 Lac out of CSR Fund for establishment of the Shina Cultural Centre.

1. Animal ambulance to Narsingh Gao Seva Samiti, Kathua

Animal rights are of paramount importance in fostering a compassionate and ethical society. Recognizing and upholding the rights of animals acknowledges their intrinsic value and inherent worth, irrespective of their utility to humans. Ensuring the well-being of animals encompasses safeguarding them from cruelty, exploitation, and unnecessary suffering. Advocating for animal rights not only upholds principles of justice and empathy but also acknowledges the interconnectedness of all life on Earth. Moreover, promoting animal rights contributes to environmental conservation and sustainable practices, as the welfare of animals is closely linked to the health of ecosystems and fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and other species will pave the way for a more compassionate and sustainable world for present and future generations.

In this context, Bank provided one animal ambulance to ‘Shri Narsingh Go Seva Samiti’, Kathua in FY2023-24.

SNGSS has been running and maintaining the Narsingh Gaushala for the past decade with the primary objective of providing medical care to the injured cows by bringing them to the Gaushala for medical care who otherwise suffer on the roads. The organization rescues the deserted cows from accident sites & other locations for proper treatment and care at their facility. The ambulance has enabled them to ensure proper, safe and swift transportation of these injured animals allowing them to do their work in an efficient and effective manner.

1. Welfare of war veterans and dependents of Army/Navy/Air Force Martyrs

Sainik Bhawans and Sainik Offices in Kashmir and Jammu working under the aegis of Sainik Welfare Department, J&K, are looking after the welfare of around 350000 Ex-Servicemen/Widows/War Widows/War Maata/Pita and their families across J&K. J&K Bank, as a conscious corporate committed to the welfare of this important and proud segment of our society, took various steps to upgrade the facilities available at these spaces. The facilities include;

• Increased security/surveillance at these Bhawans through installation of CCTV cameras
• Improving the basic residential facilities available to the families/ dependents of the Sainiks like beds, bed sheets, pillows, blankets, mattresses, curtains, dining table/chairs, bulbs, garden benches, tea machine, water tanks, buckets/tumblers etc)
• Wheelchairs for divyaang ex-servicemen or dependents of martyred soldiers/ ex-servicemen
• Tabs, Laptops and Bio-metric devices for the Jeevan-Pramaan process/activity which aims at providing door-step life-certification of army/navy/air-force pensioners (8247 in Kashmir and 87000 in Jammu).
• Additionally, an Automatic Voltage Regulator was provided to the District Sainik Office Kupwara to help the office generator effectively respond to overloads.