SBI Gives ₹40 Lakh Sponsorship for Surya Half Marathon 2026, Boosts Army CSR Support
The State Bank of India’s Jabalpur Module has extended fresh corporate social responsibility support to Headquarters Madhya Bharat Area, deepening its engagement with the Indian Army through a mix of vocational assistance and sports sponsorship. The initiative is aimed at promoting skill development, self-reliance, community welfare and physical fitness.
As part of the support package, SBI distributed sewing machines to beneficiaries of the Army Skill Training Centre (ASTC). The machines are intended to help the recipients develop vocational skills and explore sustainable livelihood opportunities, with an emphasis on practical training that can translate into economic independence.
The bank also handed over a sponsorship cheque of ₹40 lakh as title sponsor for the upcoming fourth edition of the Surya Half Marathon 2026. According to the source, the sponsorship reflects SBI’s support for fitness, healthy living and community participation through sporting initiatives linked to the Indian Army.
Lieutenant General Harbinder Singh Vandra, General Officer Commanding of Madhya Bharat Area, appreciated SBI’s continued support for community empowerment, fitness and nation-building. He acknowledged the bank’s efforts in strengthening cooperation with the Indian Army through initiatives that benefit both the military community and society at large.
The Surya Half Marathon has been positioned as an event that encourages physical fitness, endurance and sporting spirit. The source said the fourth edition is expected to further promote these values while also strengthening ties between the Armed Forces and the civilian community.
The collaboration between SBI and the Indian Army, the source noted, reflects the role that institutional partnerships can play in advancing social welfare and community development. Through vocational assistance and sporting sponsorship, the initiative seeks to support livelihoods, encourage fitness and contribute to broader national progress.
