CHANDIGARH,05.04.23-State Bank of India conducted Cyclothon in Chandigarh to mark World Environment Day to create public awareness on the theme BEAT BACK POLLUTION WITH ECO-FRIENDLY SOLUTIONS. SBI Head Office organized the Cyclothon to carry forward message of Environment Conservation and Sustainability and also popularize the Mission Life programme launched by the Prime Minister at the Global Leaders' Summit held in Glasgow during COP-26 in 2021 which is an agenda to adopt sustainable lifestyles and practices.

The Cyclothon comprising more than 100 cyclists was flagged off by the Chief General Manager of SBI Shri Vinod Jaiswal, Shri Sujit Kumar, GM, and other senior executives of the Bank. Several SBI staff members participated in the Cyclothon along with students, professionals, and women and men from all walks of life. The Cyclothon was escorted by the Chandigarh Police Cycling Squad. There was also enthusiastic team of volunteers from the Community Radio Station Desh Bhagat Radio 107.8fm team.

Addressing the gathered cyclists, SBI Staff, environment lovers, the press, and others, CGM Shri Jaiswal said that the environment is the basis of our lives and it is our duty to protect the environment. To support this cause, World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5 each year. He said that being fifth largest economy in the world and the world's most populous country, our responsibility and commitment towards the environment is also high. The Bank celebrates Sustainability as one of it’s core values. He stressed on avoiding of wasteful and mindless consumption and instead using resources consciously and thoughtfully. He also proposed five principles of respect for sustainable lifestyle which involved Respect for All forms of life, Mother Nature, diversity, local solutions and, circular economy.

Shri Vinod Jaiswal commented on two pillars of environmental protection which also contribute to economic progress that is Energy saving and renewable energy by which we can not only increase our economic progress, but also ensure the continuity of the future. He motivated, congratulated and thanked the cyclists as ecological warriors to spread the message of Environment Day to the people in Chandigarh today and complete the mission of environmental protection awareness through Cyclothon. The cyclists took the Mission Pledge before start of the Cyclothon.