Bengaluru, 11 December 2025: Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, in partnership with United Way Bengaluru and the Vagata Gram Panchayat, formally inaugurated the rejuvenated Kanekkallu Lake at Vagata Gram Panchayat, Hoskote Taluk, Bengaluru Rural District. The initiative is part of Ujjivan Small Finance Bank’s continuous CSR commitment to sustainable water resource management, environmental restoration, and community development, implemented under United Way Bengaluru’s flagship “Wake the Lake” program. 
The event was graced by Mr. Samit Ghosh, Founder, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank; Ms. Sudha Suresh, Director; Ms. Carol Furtado, Executive Director; and Mr. Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru, alongside representatives from Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, members of the Vagata Gram Panchayat, and local community stakeholders.

Covering 21.33 acres, the Kanekkallu Lake underwent extensive rejuvenation interventions including large-scale desilting, strengthening of the 535-metre main bund and 1,310-metre peripheral bund, and restoration of waterflow channels. Approximately 180 cubic metres of nutrient-rich silt were redistributed to nearby farmers, supporting agricultural productivity and soil enrichment.

With a 28-million-litre increase in water-holding capacity—from 64 million litres to 92 million litres—the rejuvenated lake will significantly improve groundwater recharge, soil moisture retention, and long-term irrigation access for surrounding villages. 2,000 saplings planted around the lake over one year, strengthening green cover and future carbon sequestration and 20,000 fish released in the lake on handover day to support aquatic biodiversity. The initiative is expected to benefit farmers, youth, and residents across 16 villages, contributing to stronger livelihoods and greater ecological resilience. 

"At Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, we believe that true progress happens when communities and ecosystems thrive together. The rejuvenation of Kanekkallu Lake is a testament to our commitment to creating sustainable, long-term impact beyond financial inclusion. By restoring this vital water resource, we are supporting agriculture, improving groundwater levels, and enabling healthier, more resilient communities. We are grateful to United Way Bengaluru, the Vagata Gram Panchayat, and the local residents for partnering with us in this meaningful initiative." Mr. Martin PS, Chief Operating Officer, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank 

About Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited 

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited is a scheduled commercial bank authorised to carry on the business of small finance bank in India. Bank serves ~99 lakh customers through 766 branches, 613 ATMs/ACRs, spread across 334 districts and 26 states and union territories in India. Gross loan book stands at ₹ 34,588 crore with a deposit base of ₹ 39,211 crore as of September 30, 2025. The Bank has been assigned a credit rating of AA- (Stable)/A1+ from CARE/CRISIL respectively towards its long-term bank facilities, fixed deposits and CD program depicting sustenance of Banks Performance. Ujjivan SFB has been ranked 26th among India’s Best Companies to Work for 2025 by Great Place to Work® Institute, the global authority on workplace culture

The bank constantly strives to ensure strong corporate culture which emphasizes on integrating CSR values with business objectives. They work with communities in navigating the unprecedented challenges primarily focused on healthcare, disaster relief, livelihood for especially abled people, education, and community infrastructure development. 

Web: www.ujjivansfb.bank.in| X:  @UjjivanSFB | WhatsApp: 9002082121

For further information, please contact:  

Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited 

Ms. Flovie Martins 

flovie.martins[at]ujjivan[dot]bank[dot]in