HDFC Bank signs MoU with Indian Air Force and CSC Academy; Launches Project HAKK
Newz Daddy Defense Updates
Synopsis in Bullet Points
- Partnership: HDFC Bank signs MoU with Indian Air Force (IAF) and CSC Academy to launch Project HAKK (Hawai Anubhavi Kalyan Kendra).
- Objective: Provide financial, skill development, and support services to defense veterans, pensioners, and their families.
- Launch: March 5, 2025, in Ahmedabad.
- Centers: 25 centers planned across Air Force bases (Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, etc.).
- Services: Access to 500+ G2C/B2C services (Aadhaar, pensions, PAN, passports), banking products, and SPARSH pension assistance.
- Skill Development: Training for financial independence via CSC Academy.
- Key Attendees: Air Marshal PK Ghosh, Ms. Smita Bhagat (HDFC Bank), Mr. Sanjay Rakesh (CSC Academy).
- Support: Monthly grants for center operators in the first year.
In a heartfelt initiative to honor India’s defense heroes, HDFC Bank has launched Project HAKK (Hawai Anubhavi Kalyan Kendra) in collaboration with the Indian Air Force and CSC Academy. The project, part of HDFC Bank’s Parivartan program, aims to uplift Air Force veterans, their families, and martyrs’ kin through financial inclusion, skill training, and accessible services.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today at a ceremony attended by senior officials from the Indian Air Force, HDFC Bank, and CSC Academy. Air Marshal PK Ghosh, Air Officer in Charge of Administration, emphasized the importance of supporting veterans who’ve dedicated their lives to national security. “This partnership is a step toward ensuring our veterans live with dignity and ease,” he said.
Under the initiative, 25 dedicated centers will be set up at key Air Force stations, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, and Guwahati. These centers will act as one-stop hubs for:
- Pension Assistance: Streamlining pension processes, including SPARSH (System for Pension Administration Raksha) services.
- Government Services: Aadhaar updates, PAN card applications, passport assistance, and bill payments.
- Banking Solutions: Access to HDFC Bank’s digital tools, loans, and savings products tailored for veterans.
- Skill Development: CSC Academy will train veterans and their families in financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
Ms. Smita Bhagat, Group Head at HDFC Bank, shared, “Our veterans deserve seamless access to opportunities. Through Project HAKK, we’re bridging gaps in banking and beyond.”
India has over 30,000 Air Force veterans and thousands of dependents, many of whom face challenges in navigating bureaucratic processes or transitioning to civilian life. Project HAKK addresses these pain points by bringing services to their doorstep. For instance, families of martyrs can now resolve pension queries without traveling to distant government offices.
CSC Academy, a digital literacy pioneer, will train individuals to manage these centers. “We’re proud to empower veterans with skills that open doors to self-reliance,” said Mr. Sanjay Rakesh, Chairman of CSC Academy. Operators will also receive a monthly stipend for the first year, ensuring smooth operations.
HDFC Bank plans to expand the project to Army and Navy veterans in the coming years. With India’s defense community exceeding 2.5 million retirees, initiatives like HAKK could redefine post-service life.
Air Vice Marshal Updesh Sharma highlighted, “This isn’t just about pensions—it’s about honoring sacrifices.” Meanwhile, Mr. Pravin Chandekar, CEO of CSC Academy, added, “Every veteran trained is a step toward a stronger nation.”
Project HAKK isn’t merely a corporate social responsibility effort—it’s a tribute to bravery. By merging HDFC Bank’s financial expertise, the IAF’s legacy, and CSC’s grassroots reach, the initiative promises a brighter, more secure future for those who’ve served India.
Also Read:
HDFC Bank Parivartan Reaches Over 58 Lakh People in Gujarat
HDFC Bank Saves ₹59.67 Lakhs from a Clever Digital Fraud