Hyderabad – The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) celebrated a significant milestone in its continued commitment to environmental sustainability with the arrival of the first electric buggies at its headquarters in Hyderabad, India, on March 12, 2024.
Donated by IDBI Bank, these electric vehicles exemplify ICRISAT’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and embracing eco-friendly solutions.
This initiative also comes on the heels of the installation of solar panels on key buildings within the campus, including the renowned ICRISAT Genebank.
Speaking at a special hand-over ceremony to mark the event, the Deputy Director General – Corporate Services, Angshu Sengupta, reaffirmed ICRISAT’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
“Sustainability is not a buzzword at ICRISAT; it is the guiding principle that permeates every aspect of the work that we do,” Sengupta stated.
“The introduction of these electric buggies is a practical solution to various on-campus transportation needs; but it is also a powerful symbol of our dedication to reducing emissions and embracing eco-friendly practices.” He further said .
Sharath Kamath, Zonal Head, IDBI Bank, presented the keys for two electric buggies to the Director General of ICRISAT, Dr Jacqueline Hughes, and thanked the organization for the opportunity to contribute towards a joint corporate and social responsibility initiative.
“Our relationship with ICRISAT goes back over two decades and I am amazed by the great work that ICRISAT is doing for our society. I feel privileged that we have been called to support and I look forward to future opportunities for partnership on similar initiatives,” shared Kamath.
The hand-over of a commitment letter from Mr Koralla Subrahmanyam, Senior Vice President – Regional Head, Govt of Business, AP & Telangana, Kotak Bank, to support ICRISAT’s green initiatives in the future.
Underscoring the importance of collaboration and collective action in addressing environmental challenges, Dr Hughes thanked all partners and ICRISAT staff for their efforts to make these green initiatives a reality.
“We work in the semi-arid regions of the world, and these green initiatives are needed across all our locations and beyond. Therefore, partnerships will be crucial in driving this sustainable transformation because we cannot do it alone,” Dr Hughes shared in her closing remarks.
“This support from IDBI and Kotak Bank helps us fulfill our mandate of sustainable agricultural research for development and strengthens our resolve to ensure sustainable and resilient communities.”
