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SBI General Insurance: Building Sustainable Livelihood Model In Chamoli's Ecologically Fragile Himalayan Villages

By TheCSRUniverse Team Published 14 Dec 2024

New Delhi, Dec 14, 2024: SBI General Insurance through SBI Foundation has collaborated with Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization (HESCO) to implement a climate-resilient livelihood model, benefiting over 4,600 individuals in the disaster prone remote Himalayan village located in Joshimath Block of Chamoli District, Uttarakhand. This initiative directly supports 570 households and involves the distribution of bio-geysers to bolster the community's resilience against unpredictable weather and environmental challenges.

Currently in its final year, the three-year project has successfully developed diverse, self-sustaining livelihood models. Key initiatives include establishing homestays, distributing 281 bio-geysers, creating fruit parks to deter wild animals, and providing extensive support for local agriculture and horticulture practices. Thereby ensuring sustainable and improved livelihoods for the remote Himalyan enclaves.

Uttarakhand is grappling with several challenges, including declining agricultural productivity, high migration rates from hill villages, soil erosion, and unplanned development. To address these issues, the SBI Foundation, with support from SBI General Insurance, is implementing a series of targeted interventions. The proposed 3-year initiative focuses on promoting sustainable development across the ecologically fragile region.

The agricultural initiatives will focus on promoting traditional crops, distributing high-quality seeds, introducing improved fruit plant varieties, and establishing compost pits. Mushroom cultivation will be introduced, along with efforts to revive traditional handicrafts. Bio-farming activities such as sheep rearing and backyard poultry farming will be implemented. Additionally, capacity-building programs will be conducted as needed, supported by energy conservation measures and biannual actions to mitigate wild animal threats. These initiatives aim to improve livelihoods and promote ecological sustainability within the community.

Naveen Chandra Jha, MD and CEO of SBI General Insurance, said, "The climate challenges in the Chamoli district call for urgent and impactful interventions that address both ecological restoration and economic empowerment. Our partnership with SBI Foundation and HESCO is a testament to our commitment to building sustainable livelihoods for communities impacted by natural disasters. This project exemplifies how innovative solutions can drive resilience and enhance the quality of life for vulnerable populations. We are glad to support the people of Chamoli in their journey toward sustainable growth and climate adaptation."

Sanjay Prakash, MD & CEO, SBI Foundation, added: “Our partnership with SBI General Insurance to build sustainable livelihood model implemented by HESCO represents a significant step toward creating resilient and self-reliant communities in the Chamoli district. Through this initiative, we are addressing climate challenges and fostering sustainable livelihoods by combining traditional knowledge with modern practices. At SBI Foundation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering rural communities and promoting ecological balance for a better and more sustainable future.”

The project has brought significant improvements to local communities, enhancing the socio-economic conditions and quality of life for 570 households. Nutritional levels have risen through bio-farming and backyard poultry initiatives, while community resilience has been strengthened with diversified livelihood opportunities. Successful ecosystem management efforts have prevented soil erosion, reduced water runoff, conserved groundwater, and increased green cover. Additionally, water conservation measures have improved water availability for both agricultural and household needs.