22nd May 2025, Kathmandu
Citizens Bank International Limited has taken another step forward in its corporate social responsibility (CSR) mission. The bank has provided support to Ward No. 11 of Kohalpur Municipality, located in Banke district of Lumbini Province, to build a new crematorium.
Citizens Bank Supports Kohalpur Crematorium
Aiming for Environmental and Social Impact
The crematorium is being constructed at the confluence of the Duduwa and Rohini rivers. This project is designed to provide a cleaner and more convenient alternative to traditional cremation methods.
Residents will soon benefit from an environmentally friendly option that reduces pollution and simplifies funeral rituals. The new structure is expected to reduce the environmental burden caused by open-air cremation.
Support Handed Over in Formal Ceremony
To formalize the support, Citizens Bank hosted a ceremony in Kohalpur. During the event, CEO Mr. Ganesh Raj Pokharel handed over the assistance package to local representatives.
He expressed deep satisfaction about being part of this meaningful initiative. “It is always a pleasure to contribute to the betterment of society,” he said during his address.
Mr. Pokharel also emphasized that Citizens Bank will continue supporting projects that help drive positive change in communities.
CSR Focus Areas
Under its CSR programs, Citizens Bank actively supports social, economic, cultural, and educational initiatives. The bank believes in bringing sustainable change through collaborative efforts with local bodies and stakeholders.
This crematorium project falls in line with the bank’s values of inclusivity, health, and environmental responsibility.
Recent Innovations in Banking
Citizens Bank is not only focused on social impact but is also setting new benchmarks in digital banking. Recently, the bank won the “Bank of the Year 2024” award, a global recognition for excellence in financial services.
In partnership with Fonepay, the bank introduced Nepal’s first virtual credit card—the Citizens Fonepay Credit Card. This move marked a major milestone in the digital finance space.
Simplifying Banking for Everyone
Citizens Bank has launched several digital services that improve customer access. Through its mobile banking app, customers can now apply for CRN numbers and participate in share applications without visiting a branch.
This effort saves time and makes financial services more accessible and user-friendly.
Additionally, the Cross Bank Teller service allows customers of other banks to withdraw cash from Citizens Bank branches. This is done by scanning a Teller QR code, making it a fast and paperless process.
These innovations prove that Citizens Bank is committed to making banking more efficient and inclusive.
A Strong National Presence
Citizens Bank continues to expand across Nepal. It currently operates in 61 districts, with a strong network that includes:
200 branches
168 ATMs
3 extension counters
74 branchless banking units
With this infrastructure, the bank serves over 1.89 million customers nationwide.
The bank offers modern, reliable services in both urban centers and remote rural areas. It is focused on bridging the digital divide and ensuring that no customer is left behind.
Driving Long-Term Value
Citizens Bank is dedicated to long-term, sustainable growth—not just for its business but for society as a whole. The recent crematorium initiative is a reflection of this commitment.
By supporting such community-driven projects, the bank is building trust, respect, and goodwill across the regions it serves.
Looking Ahead
Citizens Bank has announced that it will continue to support similar CSR projects in the future. The aim is to bring about lasting change through partnerships that uplift lives and protect the environment.
The bank’s leadership sees CSR not just as an obligation, but as an opportunity to give back. With its focus on innovation and inclusion, Citizens Bank is becoming a model for responsible banking in Nepal.
Conclusion
Citizens Bank International Limited is blending banking excellence with social responsibility. From introducing Nepal’s first virtual credit card to supporting a crematorium that promotes health and dignity, the bank is helping build a better future, one project at a time.
Whether through digital innovation or community outreach, Citizens Bank is creating impact where it matters most.
For more: Citizens Bank Supports Kohalpur Crematorium