HNB Leasing launches Govi Saviya to empower agri farmers

Monday, 25 March 2024 00:40 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

HNB DGM – Retail Banking Group Sanjay Wijemanne (third from left) and DGM – Wholesale Banking Group Damith Pallewatte presenting the first lease of the Govi Saviya scheme to Dinesh Indika, a customer of the Giriulla branch in the presence of (from left): HNB Regional Manager – North Central Province Bandula Monnekulama, AGM – PFS Kanchana Karungama and Head of Leasing Susith Perera

HNB DGM – Wholesale Banking Group Damith Pallewatte

Consolidating its efforts to empower farmers and ensure the nation’s food security, HNB PLC has launched a comprehensive support system under the HNB Leasing Govi Saviya campaign.

The initiative, driven by the bank’s microfinance officers and supported by heavyweights in the agricultural sector, aims to revive the industry with state-of-the-art equipment and knowledge-sharing missions.

HNB DGM – Wholesale Banking Group, Damith Pallewatte said: ”We are thrilled to launch the ‘HNB Leasing Govi Saviya’ initiative alongside our partners, reaffirming our commitment to every Sri Lankan, from the individual farmer to the large corporations. With nearly half of our nation’s land dedicated to agriculture yet contributing only 6.5% to the GDP, it is evident that there’s a vast opportunity for growth. Many farmers rely on ancient practices with no access to modernisation and financial resources. HNB Leasing Govi Saviya aims to bridge this gap and address any challenges they may face with targeted support backed by innovative financial solutions.”

“Our collaboration with microfinance officers and leading agricultural companies is crucial as it allows us to understand and meet unique needs. It allows us the opportunity to offer a comprehensive toolkit for enhancing productivity and ensuring food security. We understand that agriculture plays a pivotal role in our economy and the well-being of our people. This initiative marks a significant step towards establishing a sustainable and thriving agri sector,” Pallewatte added.

Building upon the bank’s existing commitments to the sector, HNB partnered with the six main agricultural equipment providers: Browns PLC, DIMO PLC, Hayleys Agriculture PLC, Lanka Commercial Trading, Singer (Sri Lanka), and AMW PLC for additional support. The collaborations will provide farmers access to convenient leasing programs, customised/flexible repayment options anchored to the Yala and Maha cultivation seasons, and low interest rates.

“We believe in the immense potential of Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector, not only as a cornerstone of our economy but as a vital part of our nation’s future. With HNB Leasing’s Govi Saviya, we are doubling down on our commitment to support our farmers, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive,” said HNB Head of Leasing Susith Perera.

Targeting critical agricultural regions, including the Northern, Eastern, North Central, UVA, Sabaragamuwa, and southern areas, ‘HNB Leasing Govi Saviya’ is designed to support farmers throughout the crucial Yala and Maha seasons.