Thrissur: ESAF Foundation celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day, while ESAF Small Finance Bank commemorated its 8th anniversary at a special event held in Thrissur. The event was inaugurated by Shri Satish K. Marathe, Central Board Director, RBI. In his speech, Shri Marathe lauded ESAF Small Finance Bank’s commitment to ethical banking and sustainable development. He emphasized that the Bank’s dual role as a financial institution and a socially responsible entity is instrumental in driving inclusive growth in the country.
Shri K. Rajan, Hon’ble Revenue Minister, commended ESAF’s journey over the past eight years and appreciated its remarkable efforts in promoting financial inclusion and social security, particularly for underserved communities. Through a video message, he also acknowledged ESAF Bank’s ethical banking values and its role in fostering a sustainable financial ecosystem. “ESAF continues to be a beacon of hope, transforming lives and ensuring equitable economic growth,” he added.
Shri K. Paul Thomas, Founder, ESAF Group of Social Enterprises and MD & CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank, delivered the Founder’s Day message. He reiterated ESAF’s core mission of bridging financial disparities and extending banking services to all. “With branches spanning 24 states and two union territories, our top priority remains the financial well-being of our customers, whose trust powers our journey,” he stated. “ESAF will continue to pursue its motto of fighting the partiality of prosperity,” he added.
As part of the celebrations, Adv. Villi Jijo, UNESCO Learning City Apex Committee Coordinator and Cheroor Division Councillor, delivered a special message in honour of Women’s Day, underscoring the role of financial empowerment in women’s progress.
Among the dignitaries who graced the occasion were Smt. Meerena Paul, Executive Director, ESAF Foundation; Dr. Jacob Samuel, Director, ESAF Foundation; Dr. Idicheria Ninan, President, ESAF Foundation; and Shri P. R. Ravi Mohan, Chairman, ESAF Small Finance Bank. Shri George K. John, Executive Director, ESAF Small Finance Bank, and Shri Sudev Kumar, Executive Vice President, ESAF Small Finance Bank, also spoke on the occasion.