SBI Foundation, Shri Chaitanya Boost Vikramgad with Rural Development, Water Conservation
Once plagued by water scarcity, low agricultural output, limited education, and inadequate healthcare, Vikramgad taluka in Palghar district is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Through the collaborative efforts of SBI Foundation and Shri Chaitanya Health & Care Trust (Govardhan Rural Development), the region is becoming a model of rural resilience with initiatives like SBI Gram Seva and SBI Gram Saksham.
These programs focus on sustainable, holistic development, addressing education, healthcare, agriculture, women’s empowerment, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. Together, they are fostering dignity, self-reliance, and long-term prosperity.
Launched in October 2022, SBI Gram Seva has impacted over 640 households across five villages: Dolhari Kh., Satkor, Devpur, Ghatalpada, and Anandpur. Through Gram Seva Kendras, the initiative coordinates efforts in 10 key areas:
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Education: Over 250 students now access digital learning tools.
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Healthcare: The Sanjeevani Mobile Medical Van and health camps have improved access to medical care.
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Agriculture: Over 100 farmers trained in organic farming, supported by seed distribution and Jasmine nurseries.
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Women’s Empowerment: 80+ women have gained financial independence through tailoring and micro-enterprises.
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Infrastructure: Clean drinking water units (Jal Dhara), renovated toilets, waste management vehicles, solar streetlights, and 3,000+ trees planted.
Meena from Satkor shared, “Doctors now come to us, and clean water is available. SBI Foundation has lifted a huge burden.”
“This initiative builds confidence as much as facilities,” said Sanat Kumar Das, Director of Govardhan Rural Development. “When communities believe in progress, real change begins.”
SBI Gram Saksham addresses water scarcity, a critical challenge in rural India. The initiative has constructed 30 farm ponds and 300 small well pits, conserving approximately 150 million litres of water annually. Key outcomes include:
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Year-round irrigation, enabling 2–3 crop cycles annually.
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Reduced distress migration through improved livelihoods.
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Enhanced food security and better school attendance for children.
Mahadev Patil, a farmer from Dolhari Kh., said, “We can now grow vegetables and grains even in the dry season. This water has given us courage.”
Challenges like skepticism and tough terrain were overcome through community engagement, technical support, and youth involvement. Today, villagers proudly maintain these water structures.
The partnership between SBI Foundation and Shri Chaitanya Health & Care Trust showcases how grassroots knowledge and institutional support can drive sustainable impact. “This is not charity—it’s an investment in India’s future,” said Shiddalingesh Ballolli, Chief Coordinating Officer, SBI Foundation. “When children study, women earn, and farmers thrive, that’s transformation.”
Vikramgad’s journey from scarcity to self-reliance highlights the power of enduring partnerships. With access to education, healthcare, water, and opportunities, the people of Vikramgad are building a brighter, more sustainable future.