Pune: “The next five years will be crucial in achieving the goal of a developed India, with the banking sector, especially the State Bank of India, playing a distinctive role,” said Binodkumar Mishra, Deputy Managing Director (Human Resource Development) of the State Bank of India.
Mishra was speaking as the chief guest at the Golden Jubilee Anniversary celebration of the State Bank of India Pensioners’ Association (Mumbai Metro and Maharashtra Circles) in Pune. A documentary highlighting the work of the association was presented, and a commemorative publication marking the Golden Jubilee was released. Former General Secretary of the SBI Pensioners’ Association, Vilas Gandhe, was honored with the ‘Founder L.N. Pabalekar Memorial Gold Medal’ along with his wife, Vrushali.
The event, held at Mahalaxmi Lawns, saw the presence of Arvindkumar Singh, Chief General Manager of the Maharashtra Circle, Harishkumar Rajpal, Deputy General Manager, Mumbai Metro Circle, Amit Jog, Deputy General Manager of Pune Region, Satishkumar, Deputy General Manager of Kolhapur Region, Pankajkumar Barnwal, and other dignitaries, including Federation President G.K. Gandhi, Secretary D.K. Basu, Association President Pradeep Deshpande, and Secretary Sudhir Pawar.
Mishra further stated, “SBI has played a significant role in the country’s economic progress. During the first phase of economic liberalization in 1999, the bank’s profit was ₹85 crores, which has since multiplied many times. The contributions of retired colleagues have been crucial in this journey, and their hard work, dedication, and loyalty have enabled the bank to reach new heights. The bank recognizes this.”
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing health after retirement, stating, “SBI consistently takes a positive approach toward the health of its retired employees. The pension scheme is continuously being improved, and retirees should take advantage of the insurance scheme. Efforts should be made to focus on enabling healthcare facilities within the state for retirees, and there should be more emphasis on adopting the e-pharmacy option.”
Arvindkumar Singh mentioned that the retired employees form an extended family of the bank, adding, “The association is built on a foundation of strong trust, and the bank has earned a reputation as one that ensures maximum benefits for its retirees. SBI has always been, and will continue to be, positive in addressing the needs and concerns of its retired colleagues.”
On behalf of the association, Sudhir Pawar raised certain demands, noting the lack of hospitals and healthcare facilities in several districts for retirees. Additionally, the unavailability of e-pharmacy options in remote areas poses numerous challenges.
Federation President G.K. Gandhi shared his experiences, stating, “During my long service at the bank, I had the privilege of working with many senior officers from whom I learned invaluable lessons. The contributions of all employees have played a major part in the bank’s proud journey.”
Pankajkumar Barnwal commented, “There are nearly 3 lakh retired SBI employees across the country, but through the association, they continue to work with such energy that one could say they may be retired, but they are not tired.”
Vilas Gandhe expressed that the gold medal awarded in memory of Pabalekar was like a blessing from him. D.K. Basu and Amit Jog also shared their thoughts, while Pradeep Deshpande extended a vote of thanks. Vasudha Dongre and Sandra Pore anchored the event.