Together for Sri Lanka: Hutch and Air Force Seva Vanitha Unit Partner to Empower Rural Families

HUTCH, one of Sri Lanka’s leading mobile networks, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to uplifting local communities through a new partnership with the Seva Vanitha Unit of the Sri Lanka Air Force. As part of this initiative, HUTCH has provided e-bicycles that will be distributed to deserving families in rural areas of the country. 

The e-bicycles will provide an accessible and effective method of mobility for recipient rural families, who often encounter hardships in finding transport for their day-to-day needs. Furthermore, being electrically powered, the e-bicycles will help to provide an affordable and sustainable mobility solution. The collaboration thus reflects HUTCH’s ongoing efforts to support Sri Lankans in creating more sustainable, connected, and comfortable lives while fostering resilience among underserved communities. 

Discussing the significance of the initiative, Saumitra Gupta – Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HUTCH explained, “As a network that prioritizes the wellbeing of Sri Lankans, we are proud to partner with the Sri Lanka Air Force Seva Vanitha Unit in supporting of deserved Air Force families. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to empowering communities and supporting a brighter, more sustainable future for Sri Lanka.

The ceremonial handover of the e-bicycles took place on the 5th of December 2024 at the Sri Lanka Air Force Headquarters, marking the beginning of what promises to be a long-standing partnership between HUTCH and the Seva Vanitha Unit. The Sri Lanka Air Force, through its well-established community outreach programs, will ensure that the e-bicycles reach families that are most in need. 

HUTCH’s commitment to social responsibility extends far beyond this initiative, with plans already underway for a series of activities aimed at enriching the lives in partnership with the Seva Vanitha Unit and other organizations. Through such initiatives, HUTCH continues to solidify its reputation as a caring corporate citizen that goes beyond providing connectivity to ensure the wellbeing of all Sri Lankans.

About HUTCH Sri Lanka

HUTCH Sri Lanka, a subsidiary of CK Hutchison Holdings (CKHH), is a major player in the Sri Lankan telecom industry. CKHH, a Hong Kong-based Fortune 500 conglomerate, operates in over 50 countries across six sectors, including Telecommunications, and reported revenues nearing USD 60 billion in 2023.

Entering the Sri Lankan market in 1997, HUTCH has grown significantly, launching GSM services in 2004, 3G in 2011, and 4G in 2018. The 2019 acquisition of Etisalat Sri Lanka further strengthened its market presence, enabling it to serve customers on both 078 and 072 prefixes. Currently, HUTCH’s 4G network covers 95% of Sri Lanka's population, and the company is 5G-ready to support the nation’s digital aspirations.

With affordable, reliable connectivity, HUTCH serves as a key driver in Sri Lanka’s telecommunications growth, expanding access to communication, business efficiency, and entertainment across even the most remote regions.