DBS Bank, a leading financial services group in Asia, is deeply committed to driving sustainable growth and responsible banking. With a strong presence in key markets like India, China, and Indonesia, DBS continues to innovate financial solutions that support businesses in their transition towards greener operations.
DBS Bank has reinforced its commitment to sustainable finance and inclusive economic development, as highlighted in its recently launched DBS Sustainability Report 2024. Speaking on the launch, Shilpa Gulrajani, Head of Sustainable Finance, Institutional Banking Group at DBS, emphasized the urgency for climate action and the growing need for transition finance to help businesses in Asia shift to low-carbon models.
Advancing Renewable Energy and Climate Action
India is set to achieve over 50% clean energy share by 2025, marking significant progress in renewable energy adoption. DBS has played a pivotal role in supporting round-the-clock (RTC) renewable energy projects and hybrid energy systems, ensuring stable and uninterrupted power supply. The bank has also been instrumental in smart grid solutions, including leading a smart metering project for Genus Power and advising Indonesia’s PLN on digitalization to optimize energy demand management.
Driving Financial Inclusion and Rural Banking
DBS has actively worked to bridge financial gaps in rural India through its Priority Sector Lending (PSL) initiative, which reached SGD 3.4 billion by December 2024, reflecting a 24% year-on-year growth. The lending focuses on agriculture, micro and small businesses, and affordable housing. In collaboration with a Corporate Business Correspondent (CBC), DBS has expanded rural banking services to 134 villages and 231 wards, facilitating access to essential banking services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, and fund transfers.
Empowering Women and Diversity in the Workforce
DBS India has seen a notable rise in female workforce representation, growing from 27% in 2021 to 31% in 2024, with a target of 35% by 2026. The bank has received numerous accolades, including being named India’s Best Bank for Diversity and Inclusion 2024 by Euromoney and recognition as one of India’s Top 25 Safest Workplaces for Women.
Strengthening Green Infrastructure
DBS continues to expand its green energy footprint, adding five new sites in India in 2024, bringing the total to seven locations powered by renewable energy. The bank has also partnered with organizations like Urdhvam Environment Technology, Haqdarshak Empowerment Solutions, and ReCircle to promote sustainability, financial literacy, and ethical waste management.
With these initiatives, DBS continues to lead the way in sustainable finance, climate resilience, and inclusive growth in India and beyond.
