Tag: Ravi Bhatnagar

  • VML India’s Durex campaign foster safe spaces for gender identity conversations

    VML India’s Durex campaign foster safe spaces for gender identity conversations

    Mumbai: Marketing transformation company, VML, has conceptualized a unique campaign, ‘Rainbow Classrooms’, for Durex. VML’s approach aims to create a safe space for students in India to express their feelings and address gender identity issues that are often overlooked due to the lack of sex education in Indian schools.

    In India, students are often confused when it comes to conversations around gender identity. Home environments may not be welcoming to having open conversations on the topic, and educators do not always possess the necessary awareness or skills to address these subjects with sensitivity.

    VML and Durex worked with students, teachers, school body heads and government officials to create a course specifically focused on educating the educators on having these difficult conversations.

    We wanted to show them that they could be that safe space students were looking for. Those educators who completed our course were given a symbol outside their classroom – a rainbow door. Taking inspiration from the Pride Flag, the painted door serves as a symbol to students that they are entering a safe space where they can express themselves freely without fear of judgement or ridicule.

    VML India group creative director Rohan Kumar said, “The first step to getting students to talk about gender issues was to create a safe space. The next was to create a symbol. Once we identified teachers as the ambassadors for this initiative, everything fell into place quickly post that. The rainbow doors serve as powerful symbols of safety and inclusivity. It’s a privilege for us at VML to collaborate with Durex on this initiative and support educational institutions to promote belonging for all.”

    Reckitt, SOA, director of External Affairs & Partnership, SOA, Ravi Bhatnagar highlighted Reckitt’s commitment, “At Reckitt, we are dedicated to promoting inclusivity and providing continuous support to the communities we serve. The Rainbow Classrooms initiative is a testament to our ongoing efforts to create safe and supportive environments for students, not just during Pride Month but throughout the entire year. By fostering acceptance and understanding, we are empowering the next generation to embrace their identities and contribute to a more inclusive society.”

  • OHO Hill Yatra campaign presented by Dettol Banega Swasth India culminates in Dehradun

    OHO Hill Yatra campaign presented by Dettol Banega Swasth India culminates in Dehradun

    Mumbai: Reckitt, world’s leading consumer health and hygiene company, along with partner Plan India, partnered with season three of OHO Hill Yatra for its Dettol Climate Resilient School Project, with the theme – ‘Kedarkhand Se Manaskhand Ek No. Uttarakhand’ and culminated grand finale in Dehradun in presence of chief minister of Uttarakhand  Pushkar Singh Dhami. The month-long on-ground initiative hosted by RJ Kaavya, reached over 25,000 students and 43 schools, engaging and educating students and communities across 13 districts in Uttarakhand on the issue of climate change. To further its commitment to cover 100 per cent districts of Uttarakhand by 2025, Dettol Banega Swasth India will develop one Climate Resilient School per district, focused on reinforcing state’s climate mitigation & adaptation efforts and contributing to the achievement of SDGs.

    Hosted at the CM Camp Office in Dehradun, the grand finale was also graced by special guest Reckitt director, external affairs and partnerships, SOA Ravi Bhatnagar and OHO Radio CEO RJ Kaavya. During the event, students from the Climate Resilient Schools presented cultural performances and models on waste management, energy saving, and solar panel retrofitting implemented in their schools. The event also witnessed the launch of Dettol Climate Resilient School Preamble, encouraging children to commit to preserve and safeguard the environment by taking environment-friendly actions for a greener and healthier tomorrow.

    Commenting on the grand finale event, chief guest Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said, “I congratulate Dettol Banega Swasth India and OHO Radio for this unique campaign in Uttarakhand to drive education among children on the important issue of climate change. The OHO Hill Yatra season 3 campaign by Dettol Climate Resilient School Project, with the theme- ‘Kedarkhand Se Manaskhand Ek No. Uttarakhand’ engaged children and communities across 13 districts of the state. Aligned to the vision of Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi – Mission LiFE, this endeavour is truly remarkable and holds an important value as it encourages children to inculcate behavioural change in their everyday lives.”

    India is the seventh most vulnerable country to climate change impact, according to the Global Climate Risk Index 2021. Due to geological factors such as melting glaciers, increased population pressure, seismic activity, and over-exploitation of natural resources, the state of Uttarakhand is vulnerable to climate change. In alignment with Government of India’s Mission LiFE curriculum, Reckitt aims to create a cadre of environmentally conscious children to drive climate resilience in school and community across the state of Uttarakhand with Dettol Climate Resilient School project. Through this project, retrofitting in 4 schools in 4 Dhams of Uttarakhand were done with solar panels, energy efficient lights & fans, low flow water fixtures, waste management. Following schools were covered – Government Upper Primary School, Damta, Uttarkashi (Yamunotri), Government High School, Athali, Uttarkashi (Gangotri), Government Upper Primary School, Ratura, Rudraprayag (Kedarnath) and Government Upper Primary School, Pakhi, Chamoli (Badrinath). The impact of retrofitting in schools translated to a 65 per cent reduction in water wastage, and 64.5 per cent reduction in electricity units charges.

    The incorporation of wall murals focusing on the themes of Mission LiFE serves as a powerful tool to raise awareness among students. By actively engaging in environmental education workshops, the project not only aligns with the government’s emphasis on climate action but also directly supports the national goal of fostering environmental consciousness among citizens. The cultivation of environmental responsibility and conscious lifestyles among children through climate-friendly interventions echoes the government’s call for sustainable habits from an early age.

    Reckitt – South Asia EVP Gaurav Jain said, “In a remarkable stride towards sustainability, India has witnessed a substantial boost in its green energy initiatives, transitioning seamlessly from 2023 to 2024. At Reckitt, we believe we have a duty to combat climate change and empower the next generation towards building a sustainable and resilient future. With Dettol Climate Resilient Schools and the OHO Hill Yatra campaign, we have been working closely in the state of Uttarakhand to drive on-ground behaviour change and educate the younger generation through three pillars – campus,  urriculum and collaboration. Bearing the flag of Mission LiFE, we look forward to expand the initiative by developing more climate resilient schools in Dev Bhoomi-Uttarakhand, where elements of nature meet in the purest form. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Uttarakhand for their invaluable support as we together work towards building a greener and more resilient Uttarakhand.”

    The Dettol Climate Resilient project partnered with OHO Radio, a coveted local digital radio, to conduct an immersive month-long campaign during the OHO Hill Yatra. Designed to deepen students’ understanding of environmental issues, the campaign focused on promoting Mission LiFE and informing the audience on the critical issue of climate change. The grand finale event encompassed of various cultural performances by students from selected schools of Khatima, Rishikesh, Rudraprayag and Uttarkashi, and showcased impact of OHO Hill Yatra campaign, based on the theme ‘Kedarkhand se Manaskhand Ek No. Uttarakhand’.

    The Dettol Climate Resilient School Project, under the visionary leadership of Reckitt and implementation of Plan India, has emerged as a crucial player aligning itself with the national green goals set by the Indian government. This innovative initiative has demonstrated a profound commitment to environmental sustainability, education, and community engagement, contributing significantly to the broader vision of a greener and more resilient India.

    Since its inception last year, the Dettol Climate Resilient School Project has emerged as a crucial player aligning itself with the national green goals in alignment with the vision of the Government of India. This innovative initiative has not only demonstrated a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability but has also actively contributed to the broader vision of a greener and more resilient India. The project’s endeavours have resulted in significant achievements, with four schools retrofitted with solar panels, energy-efficient lights, fans, low-flow water fixtures, and waste management systems. These efforts have led to tangible impacts on water wastage and electricity units charges, seamlessly aligning with the country’s broader objectives for sustainable resource management.

    In essence, the Dettol Climate Resilient School Project has intricately woven its initiatives to not only align with but actively contribute to the national green goals of India. As India moves from 2023 to 2024, the trajectory is clear – a determined march towards a greener, more sustainable future. The financial allocations, initiatives, and collaborations underscore the nation’s commitment to aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility, forging a path towards a resilient and eco-friendly tomorrow.
     

  • Dettol and NDTV’s ‘Banega Swasth India’ celebrate launch of 10th season

    Dettol and NDTV’s ‘Banega Swasth India’ celebrate launch of 10th season

    Mumbai: NDTV, India’s most trusted news network, is back with the triumphant 10th season of ‘Banega Swasth India’, which is India’s longest running public health campaign. This milestone period marks a decade of unwavering commitment to promote health, wellness, and unity across India.

    ‘Banega Swasth India’ was started nine years ago by NDTV, in partnership with Dettol. In the last nine years, this multiple award-winning campaign has reached more than 24 million children in India through a series of programmes, innovations, activities and tools–all aimed at making hygiene an inextricable part of everyone’s lives.

    In its 10th year, the campaign focuses on One World Hygiene for Global Health and Well-being with the power of 10– Dus Ka Dum, and highlights the strengths, learnings, experiences and achievements of the Banega Swasth India campaign. The primary aim of One World Hygiene is a reminder to show empathy and solidarity with those who may not have access to essential hygiene resources. It’s a call to action to bridge the gap between the privileged and the underserved, ensuring everyone can lead a healthy life. The 10th season will also look forward to Dus Kadam – the emerging challenges that the campaign aims to address.

    Dettol and NDTV’s ‘Banega Swasth India’ initiative has grown stronger and become the hope of millions. The event is a forum that has attracted the most powerful and influential voices in support of the cause, from Vice Presidents and Chief Ministers to Oscar winners, Magsaysay awardees and Nobel laureates, all compassionate individuals to address and take action on some of the country’s most critical health issues. This initiative has been acknowledged publicly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for its impact on public awareness. The live event on 2 October every year, highlights how better hygiene and nutrition can improve India’s health.

    With a focus on promoting health and wellness across India, the 10th season was graced by a number of distinguished guests including Droupadi Murmu, Her Excellency the President of India; Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Government of India; Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya; Brajesh Pathak, Deputy Chief Minister and Cabinet Minister of Medical Education, Medical and Health and Family Welfare, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Ashok Gehlot, Chief Minister of Rajasthan and Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, LGBTQIA activist. Apart from these famous dignitaries, Bollywood celebrities such as Rakul Preet Singh and Bhumi Pednekar also graced the gathering. The program also featured performances by charismatic artists such as Daler Mehndi, Neha Kakkar, Adnan Sami and sensational Nagaland rapper Moko Koza.

    Campaign ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana states, “Banega Swasth India has been a journey of hope, awareness and positive change over the last 10 years. In this monumental 10th season, let’s take Dus kadam to fulfil the campaign’s aim, One World Hygiene. I am reminded that health is indeed our greatest wealth. Together, we can inspire millions to live healthier lives and build a stronger and happier India.”

    AMG Media Network CEO & editor-in-chief, NDTV Limited director Sanjay Pugalia states, “With this triumphant season 10 of Dettol Banega Swasth India we like to express our gratitude and educate the people that One World Hygiene is not just a concept; it’s a commitment to a healthier, safer, and more compassionate world. Let’s come together, transcending boundaries, and make it a reality. Our future depends on it.”

    Reckitt chief executive officer Kris Licht states, “We are enormously proud of Banega Swasth India and we are grateful to our partners for joining us in our pursuit of a cleaner, healthier world. As we celebrate this important milestone recognising our 10 years of partnership, we must continue to innovate and find new ways to elevate Banega Swasth India, including ensuring we leave no one behind.“

    Reckitt South Asia executive vice president Gaurav Jain states, “With the 10th season of Banega Swasth India, the One World Hygiene inspires us all to work together for a healthier and brighter future of India. We are turning the spotlight on the future, fostering global unity for a healthier tomorrow”.

    Reckitt director-external affairs and partnerships South Asia Ravi Bhatnagar states, “As Banega Swasth India celebrates a decade of tireless dedication, we are reminded that in the fight against climate change, One World Hygiene encourages sustainable hygiene practices that protect human health and the environment to ensure a healthier planet for future generations. Hygienic world lies in unity, strength and relentless pursuit of a healthier world.”

    Over the years, NDTV-Dettol Banega Swasth India leads to many firsts by reaching 850,000 schools with hygiene content, hygiene olympiad, hygiene play parks, hygiene music album, India’s first climate resilient schools, folk art and delivering hygiene programmes that are culturally adaptive. India’s first-ever public health and hygiene-focused podcast Swasthya Mantra was also launched as part of the program, along with Hygieia, an online game.

    Dettol and NDTV have been working towards a clean and healthy India since 2014. Into its tenth season, Banega Swasth India embarks on a journey of transformation. This year the goal is to envelope the whole world. The goal of good hygiene & health has to be a global goal – One World Hygiene. In this season, a newly formed council of Padma awardee doctors created a roadmap for One World Hygiene.

  • Green TV to go the AFP way, soon

    Green TV to go the AFP way, soon

    MUMBAI:  India’s first agriculture oriented private TV channel launched on 21 October has already managed to penetrate 11 per cent of the total TV homes in the country.

    However, the channel headed by Nomad Films managing director Junaid Memon, has not been able to get any advertiser on board but it soon plans to change that. “Within the next few days you will see some advertiser funded programmes on Green TV,” says Memon. However, unlike other channels, they won’t be entertainment or news shows but awareness-based programmes that will educate farmers.

    It is looking at one year tie ups with brands wherein shows will be created on ground first and then aired on the channel. Though he did not wish to reveal the names, he says that talks are on with FMCG brands. Memon says that the channel is not going by conventional advertising since is very limiting. “What we can offer is allowing brands to meet their buyer. We are beyond just a TV channel, we can offer two-way communication,” he says.

    “We are picking people from agriculture institutes and then teaching them how to talk to the farmers and how to create shows for TV,” he adds. Currently, the channel has about 160 people which he soon looks to increase to 250.

    The primetime bands are morning 9 am to 12 pm and evening 4 pm to 7 pm with about six hours of original content being produced now. It will be soon taken up to eight hours. Morning shows consist of business, commodity market and daily updates on crop, afternoon is targeted to women with health and education programmes and evening is dedicated to information based technical shows. Memon advises that ‘agriculture’ is just a word but the channel’s scope involves a variety of things including horticulture, pisciculture, etc. All programmes are being shot in HD but currently telecast only in SD.

    The research team consists of 13 people, which he will be increasing to 23 by January. The group CEO is Ravi Bhatnagar, programming head is Nitin Sukheja, sales head is Sudeep Bhattacharya, and distribution head is Devinder Verma.

    It is soon going to bring on board an ad sales company. The marketing for the channel will begin in January with creatives being done by Guava Creative Solutions.
    So far, its distribution team has seeded about 2000 of the targeted 8000 boxes to LCOs.

    It is also closing in on deals with two DTH operators.