In 2008, India experienced massive flooding in the states of Bihar, Orissa, Assam and parts of West Bengal. These floods caused tremendous damage to human life, property and crops, affecting millions of people. Hardest hit were the poorest and most vulnerable, including children, the disabled, and marginalised social groups.
ICICI Bank responded immediately, mobilising funds to help people affected by the floods by appealing to its Internet banking customers. Their spontaneous and overwhelming response was heartening. More than 55,000 individual customers responded, for a total contribution of Rs.31.70 million. ICICI Group companies and its employees contributed an additional Rs.106.50 million.
The funds have been and continue to be utilised for the rehabilitation of flood victims in Orissa, Bihar and West Bengal. Rather than a short-term disaster relief programme, ICICI Group’s efforts have focused on the longer-term rehabilitation phase, including support for child resilience and livelihood rebuilding initiatives.