State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest public sector lender, has launched a new recognition program titled ‘SBI-STAR’ (Staff Talent Acknowledgement & Recognition) to honour employees for their contributions and excellence beyond their professional responsibilities.
The initiative was officially unveiled on November 2, 2025, and is positioned as an annual award framework that acknowledges the diverse talents of SBI staff across non-work domains.
SBI-STAR program: Purpose and Vision
The SBI-STAR program is designed to promote holistic employee engagement and foster a culture of appreciation that goes beyond conventional performance metrics.
According to the bank’s official statement, the initiative reflects SBI’s long-standing commitment to employee well-being, organisational pride, and inclusive recognition.
SBI Chairman Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, speaking at the launch, emphasized that employees should be appreciated not only for their professional excellence but also for their personal achievements and contributions to society.
He noted that such recognition strengthens the emotional bond between the organisation and its workforce.
Areas of Recognition
Under the SBI-STAR framework, employees will be recognised for their achievements in the following categories:
- Arts and Literature
- Games and Sports
- Culture and Heritage
- Social Work and Community Service
- Environmental Initiatives
This broad categorisation allows employees from diverse backgrounds and interests to participate. It ensures they are acknowledged for their unique contributions.
SBI-STAR program: Nomination and Selection Process
The award program will follow a structured nomination and evaluation process, allowing employees to be nominated either by peers or supervisors.
A dedicated committee will assess submissions based on predefined criteria such as impact, consistency, and relevance to the category.
The awards will be conferred annually, with winners receiving formal recognition at SBI’s internal events and through official communication channels.
The bank also plans to highlight selected stories through its internal publications and digital platforms to inspire other employees.
Strategic Significance
The launch of SBI-STAR comes at a time when organisations are increasingly focusing on employee experience and engagement as key drivers of productivity and retention.
By acknowledging talents that lie outside the workplace, SBI aims to build a more inclusive and emotionally connected workforce.
The initiative also aligns with broader trends in human resource management, where companies are recognising the value of employee identity beyond job roles.
SBI’s move is expected to set a benchmark for other public sector institutions looking to modernise their employee engagement strategies.
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