Svayam's 'Accessible Family Toilet Project' Reveals that 76% of People in Rural India, with Reduced Mobility, Struggle to Access Basic Sanitation Facilities

In four years, 1.44 crore individuals have been made aware of the significance of accessible sanitation across 14 states and 138 districts in India

1,008 rural families have successfully availed loans amounting to nearly INR 3 Crore to facilitate the construction of accessible toilets in their homes

19th November 2023, Delhi: Svayam, India's pioneering accessibility organisation and the social impact arm of Jindal SAW, unveils key findings from the ground-breaking Accessible Family Toilet Project, implemented with Foundation for Accessible Aquanir and Sanitation (FAAS- India wing of Water.org). Discovering that over 76% of individuals with reduced mobility struggle to access sanitation facilities through an initial need assessment survey, Svayam initiated this project in 2019 across 14 states and 138 districts of India. Over the 4 years, through 24,500 Self Help Groups (SHGs), Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) this project has touched lives of about 1.5 crore individuals (approximately 1% of India’s population) and trained over 1554 local plumbers and masons on accessible toilets. Emerging as a beacon of hope and progress, Svayam’s sensitizing and training programs under this project has helped rural India be future ready by building accessible sanitation facilities. 

While toilets are recognised as a basic necessity, there are still a staggering number of people with reduced mobility, including senior citizens, people with disabilities, pregnant women, kids, etc., who are deprived of this facility. Recognising this, Svayam conceived the concept of 'accessible toilets' and drove awareness at the grassroots level on the significance of accessible toilets in Indian households. With 69% of People with Disabilities (PwD) and 71% of India's senior citizens residing in rural parts of India, Svayam led the project intending to improve sanitation facilities for the safety, convenience and dignity of these people.

To understand the need for accessible toilets, a comprehensive three-month need assessment survey was conducted in India, revealing the pressing need for accessible sanitation facilities. Shocking statistics emerged, highlighting the challenges faced by those with disabilities and reduced mobility. In India, 22% of people with disabilities earn less than 3000 per month. Indicating that apart from awareness of what accessible toilets entail, there was also a need for awareness of sanitation loans that are provided through microfinance models such as Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) and others. 

Shedding light on this transformative endeavour, Ms. Sminu Jindal, Founder - Chairperson of Svayam and Managing Director of Jindal SAW Ltd., shares, "At Svayam, we firmly believe that accessibility is an inherent human need and an undeniable right for every individual. Our extensive four-year project has shattered myths that accessibility isn't solely essential for individuals with disabilities; it is necessary for all. Through this project, we've witnessed the willingness of rural communities to invest their savings and even take loans to fulfil this fundamental need—accessible toilets at home. What's truly remarkable is the staggering 99.0% repayment rate, a testament to the unwavering commitment of borrowers towards enhancing their quality of life."

The impact of the initiative on individuals has been substantial, with over 1,008 families having successfully availed loans amounting to nearly INR 3 Crore to facilitate the construction of accessible toilets in their homes. The project initially commenced in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Odisha. Encouraged by the impact on the beneficiaries, with the assistance of 14 Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs), the project expanded to an additional nine states including, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana, and West Bengal.

Further, this project's success prompted Svayam and NHFDC Foundation to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to expand it to 17 Swalamban Kendras across seven northern states of India. Kicking off this collaboration, the inaugural activity conducted in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, focusing on training plumbers and masons to construct accessible toilets. Concurrently, a village-wide survey is underway by the NHFDC Foundation. Impressively, 70% of the families taking the survey have expressed keen interest in obtaining loans to upgrade their toilets. 

Mr Naveen Shah, Chairman -cum- Managing Director, NDFDC, said, “Svayam and NDFDC Foundation remain committed to promoting accessibility and inclusivity for all individuals, including those with reduced mobility. We have planned to develop a model village in the Kannauj District of Uttar Pradesh, implementing accessible toilets in the households that need them. The response to the survey from the village shows a willingness to adapt to a better lifestyle." 

Svayam's findings and experiences have been myth-breaking, demonstrating that people in India's villages are eager to embrace a more inclusive and accessible lifestyle. At a time when the importance of sanitation is often taken for granted, these accessible toilets address crucial matters of safety and hygiene, empowering families to lead healthier, better lives. Svayam is tirelessly expanding its efforts to create greater awareness about accessible toilets, aiming to magnify its impact across India. 

Impact Driven so far:

3,620 families expressed keen interest in adopting accessible toilet facilities at home

64% have opted to build accessible toilets for their elderly family members, prioritising their comfort and dignity

26% have utilised loans to build toilets for family members with disabilities, including those with obesity and accident victims

8% have adopted accessible toilets with future readiness in mind, creating homes that stand prepared for the years ahead to ensure the safety, dignity, and independence of family members as they age in place

An additional 2% have constructed toilets for pregnant family members at home

More than 2500 MFI staff were involved in this process to create awareness of Credit Financing for people with reduced mobility

Over 270 families from Maharashtra alone have opted for loans to build accessible toilets in their homes. 

These loans have a striking 99.0% repayment rate

Many have used their savings to modify the toilets to make them accessible

 

About Svayam

Svayam is a leading accessibility organisation that aims to reform infrastructure and transportation to make it accessible for people with reduced mobility. Accessibility aids individuals and gives them the freedom to independently explore the built environment around them, irrespective of their physical capabilities. This was on philanthropist-business visionary Sminu Jindal's mind when she founded Svayam in October 2000. An initiative of the Sminu Jindal Charitable Trust, Svayam is a not-for-profit accessibility pioneer that focuses on creating a barrier-free world for all. 

Anoop Jalota will Chair a Committee.

Ministry of Commerce & Industry

azadi ka amrit mahotsavg20-india-2023

Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphasizes on bringing all copyright societies related to music industry on a single platform to bolster India’s Soft Power for Amrit Kaal

Anoop Jalota will Chair a Committee to discuss issues related to easing the process of licensing of music

Government to consult stakeholders on industry concerns on Statutory Licensing extended to Internet streaming

Government emphasizes on fair and equitable representation of small and marginalized creators, producers and musicians for their creative contribution

The music industry royalty collection has jumped 10 times in last couple of years and still the industry has huge potential to offer

Posted On: 07 NOV 2023 8:11PM by PIB Mumbai

: Mumbai, November 7, 2023

Union Commerce and Industry and Consumer Affairs and Food and Public Distribution and Textiles Minister Shri Piyush Goyal participated in the Copyright Stakeholders' Meeting held with different representatives of the Copyright Societies and Indian Music Industry, in Mumbai today. The Union Minister has reiterated the commitment of the Government under the leadership of the PM Shri Narendra Modi to protect the culture, heritage and diversity represented by the Cinema, Film and Music industry. The entire industry should come to one platform for enhancing the creative industry and strengthening its soft-power in Amrit Kaal, stated Shri Goyal in course of the meeting. He further said that music industry royalty collection has jumped 10 times in last couple of years and still the industry has a huge potential to offer more. The industry representatives have expressed the pressing issues of the industry in their growth, especially on royalty distribution, statutory licensing mainly under Section 31(d), single window licensing, inclusive representation in the copyright society’s board etc. The Union Minister emphasized on the need to respect fair and equitable distribution of royalty as per the terms decided. The issues of extension of statutory licensing on Internet were also discussed which will be revisited after consultation with the stakeholders.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister has emphasized on having equitable representation in Copyright societies with inclusive approach to have representation of women and equal rights for smaller artists. Copyright societies will review their Article of Association and discuss all such issues in a common forum. The copyright societies have been asked to resolve the disputes collectively, wherein the Minister formed a Committee having representation of all relevant copyright societies to discuss the issues related to the creative industry. The committee shall be chaired by Shri Anoop Jalota, wherein the committee will submit report with solutions on their issues within 30 days’ time. The vision of the Central Government is to bring the different sections of the creative industry to work as one unit and enhance the contribution with inclusive approach taking care of small and marginalized creators, producers and musicians so that their creative contribution is respected.

Meezaan Jafri's Soulful Rendition of Hua Main is The Ultimate Mood Booster*

Link: News

Meezaan Jafri recently won millions of hearts with his portrayal of Shikhar Randhwa in Yaariyan 2. Now, the actor has taken to his social media and shared a soulful rendition of 'Hua Main.' 

He wrote, “Been stuck in my head recently hence decided to make a cover while also doing a new rendition”

Fans were left in surprise and couldn’t stop praising his mesmerizing voice.”

*_Laugh, Cry, and Thrill: Top 5 Must-Watch Series of the Year!_*

Looking for some web-series to add to your watchlist? No need to look any further! We have compiled a list of the five shows that are now generating the most buzz in the world of streaming. There's something for everyone, from gripping tales of survival to comedy. Now, go ahead and fetch some popcorn, and get ready for some truly amazing entertainment!

*Kaala Paani*

Genre: Survival Drama

Platform: Netflix

Cast: Mona Singh, Ashutosh Gowariker, Amey Wagh, and more

Synopsis: When a mysterious disease threatens the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a desperate struggle for survival collides with a race to discover a cure. This Hindi-language series on Netflix is a gripping tale of resilience in the face of a deadly epidemic. With a stellar cast and a thrilling storyline, "Kaala Paani" is certainly a must-watch!

*Half Love, Half Arranged*

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Platform: Amazon miniTV

Cast: Maanvi Gagroo, Karan Wahi

Synopsis: Rhea is tired of being alone and decides to explore the marriage market. However, each guy she meets comes with a quirkier problem than the last. This romantic comedy provides a fresh perspective on love and arranged dating, offering a hilarious take on the quest for the perfect match. It's available for free on Amazon's miniTV, so you can dive into the crazy circus of emotions without any extra cost.

*Choona*

Genre: Thriller

Platform: Netflix

Cast: Jimmy Shergill, Namit Das, Monika Panwar, and more

Synopsis: "Choona" is a gripping thriller that revolves around a group of outcasts who unite to take on a superstitious politician. Their plan involves a heist as a form of revenge, leading to an intense cat-and-mouse game. With a talented ensemble cast and a thrilling storyline, "Choona" promises an adrenaline-pumping viewing experience.

*Bambai Meri Jaan*

Genre: Suspenseful Action Drama

Platform: Amazon Prime Video 

Cast: Kay Kay Menon, Kritika Kamra, Avinash Tiwary, Amyra Dastur

Synopsis: Set in post-independence Bombay, "Bambai Meri Jaan" follows the journey of an honorable police officer as he battles the city's corruption and chaos to protect his family. This gripping drama offers a realistic look at the crime-ridden streets of the era. If you're a fan of suspense and action, this one's for you.

*Constable Girpade*

Genre: Comedy

Platform: Amazon miniTV

Cast: Khushaal Pawar, Chandini Mimic, Neel Salekar 

Synopsis: Meet Constable Mandaar Ghorpade, aka GIRPADE, who follows in his father's footsteps and joins the police force. His mission? To catch the notorious criminal PHENYL MOHAN, a master of disguise. Along the way, he deals with rich people's bizarre problems and navigates his quirky relationship with his Sub Inspector boss. "Constable Girpade" promises a hilarious take on the life of a lowly constable in Mumbai, one zany case at a time.

There you have it – our list of the top 5 shows to binge-watch right now. Whether you're into thrilling survival dramas, romantic comedies, intense thrillers, suspenseful action, or quirky comedies, these shows offer a diverse range of entertainment options. It’s time to start your streaming journey with these fantastic series, and enjoy!

India is a fast-growing market for American pistachios as consumers here find out more about the health benefits of regularly consuming these delectable nuts.

The Indian office of American Pistachios Growers (APG), organized a knowledge session to talk about the nutritional properties in pistachios on November 1, 2023, in Mumbai that was attended by leading food and lifestyle influencers. 

The session especially focused on recent study conducted by Cornell University and published in the journal Nutrients in 2022 that found that pistachios have a high antioxidant capacity. In fact, the antioxidant capacity of pistachios rivals that of popular antioxidant-containing foods, including blueberries, pomegranates, cherries and red wine. Antioxidants helps protect healthy cells from free radical damage in the body.

Pistachios are one of the very few foods high in antioxidants that are also a complete protein. This makes them perfect for people who want a more plant-based diet. Research conducted and published in 2020 had shown that California grown pistachios are a complete protein; which means that they contain all 9 essential amino acids that your body needs. These types of complete proteins are only found from animal sources. Vegetarians need to balance this with supplements. Pistachios are a natural source. 

Pistachios are also low in calories when compared to other nuts. One serving of pistachios (49 nuts) is only 160 calories making them a great anytime guilt free snack. 

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Siddhant Bhargava, renowned diet specialist and successful health entrepreneur commented “American pistachios are rich in antioxidants, which help protect healthy cells from free radical damage. Also, they are a source of complete protein, aiding in muscle regeneration and repair. Additionally, they also have beneficial fats, fibre and other important nutrients that our body needs every day.”

Speaking on the India market Mr. Sumit Saran, In-Country Marketing Representative of American Pistachios Growers remarked. “We have seen tremendous demand for American pistachios, as people are getting more aware. They are great as a snack or as an ingredient. American pistachios are available on all major e-commerce platforms or with major dry fruit retailers. All consumers have to do is search for California pistachios.

Celebrity Chef Vicky Ratnani showcased healthy recipes featuring American pistachios, highlighting their high quality, versatility, and creativity on every plate. Also present at the occasion was Ms. Rhiannon Elms, Senior Ag. Attaché, US Consulate, Mumbai. 

About American Pistachio Growers

American Pistachio Growers is a non-profit trade association representing more than 865 growers, member processors and industry stakeholders in California, Arizona and New Mexico. More details and a compendium of the global research can be found at www.AmericanPistachios.in      

STAR STUDIOS AND CINE1 STUDIOS’ INTENSE SURVIVAL THRILLER ‘APURVA’ TRAILER OUT NOW!

 BRACE YOURSELF TO WITNESS THIS EDGE OF THE SEAT THRILLER - APURVA STREAMING FROM 15TH NOVEMBER ONWARDS ONLY ON DISNEY+ HOTSTAR!

Mumbai, 26th October 2023: After unveiling the intriguing and viral first look amidst huge crowds and tremendous fanfare at the prestigious Lav Kush Ramlila at Red Fort, Delhi - the first of its kind for any Indian film, the power-packed trailer of Star Studios and Cine1 Studios’ APURVA is here! Releasing on 15th November on Disney+ Hotstar, Apurva directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat stars a unique ensemble cast of Tara Sutaria, Abhishek Banerjee, Dhairya Karwa and Rajpal Yadav who have united to showcase one of the most powerful stories of good over evil onscreen, set in one of India's most dangerous places in India – Chambal.

Trailer Link: https://youtu.be/daD91zE7tPs

The engrossing visuals showcase a dramatically raw and fierce transformation of Tara who draws onto her inner strength to survive and live! What happens when an ordinary moment in life suddenly turns into a very dangerous situation and how far will Apurva go to survive? This is the story of Apurva! 

Director Nikhil Nagesh Bhat says “Apurva was a great opportunity to bring an adrenaline pumping, powerful story to life. Audiences will see a dramatically strong transformation of Tara and for the first time we will see Rajpal Yadav in a deadly role, he will surprise fans with this new avatar! Abhishek brings a unique brand of memorability to all his characters, and I feel what he has done in Apurva, will catapult him even further. It was a memorable experience working on this story with such creative stalwarts like Murad bhai, Star Studios and Disney + Hotstar, who have given me a great platform to tell this thrilling story in the way I envisioned it.” 

Tara Sutaria speaks on headlining this unique project, "I am overwhelmed by the immense love and appreciation that our first look has received. ‘Apurva' has been the most challenging and rewarding experience for me with regard to performance and it is also starkly different from any role I've played before. The fierceness and power of this character is what drew me in from the beginning! This is the role I've longed for since I began my career, and I can’t wait for the audiences to watch the film from November 15, on Disney+ Hotstar.”

Cinematic legend Rajpal Yadav whose menacing avatar will take audiences by surprise says, “It is always important to keep trying to innovate and do something different no matter what stage of life you may be in. I was looking for a role that I’ve never done before, something that can shock today’s audiences who are always looking for something new and Apurva was just the right story for me to be a part of which is releasing from 15th November on Disney+ Hotstar!”

Known for his dynamic portrayals on screen, Abhishek Banerjee says "This is one of the most fearsome characters I’ve played so far and to bring the necessary level of evil and menace in each scene was quite challenging but it was a great journey working with such an exemplary team! I am very excited for audiences to watch Apurva from 15th November on Disney+ Hotstar.”

Dhairya Karwa adds, "Exploring the intricacies of the character was challenging and exciting at the same time. It was an emotional journey and a testament to the purest emotion, love, and how far you would go to protect the ones you love. It is one of the most creatively liberating experiences of mine working with such a fantastic team, and I am eagerly awaiting the release of Apurva from 15th November on Disney+ Hotstar!”

Star Studios presents APURVA, a Cine1 Studios and Star Studios Production, is written and directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat and produced by Murad Khetani and Star Studios, will be streaming from November 15 onwards only on Disney+ Hotstar.

ABOUT THE FILM:

An edge-of-the-seat thriller, where the prey becomes the predator to survive an abduction, through the night. Apurva, an ordinary young girl (age 23) is enroute to an adjacent town to meet her fiancée, when she is randomly kidnapped by local dacoits during a robbery. Apurva has to outwit lawless, brutal and dreaded dacoits in the ravines of Chambal (large unpoliced ravines across central India) to survive the night before any help comes her way.

About Disney+ Hotstar

Disney+ Hotstar is India’s leading streaming platform that has changed the way Indians watch their entertainment - from their favourite TV shows and movies to sporting extravaganzas. With the widest range of content in India, Disney+ Hotstar offers more than 100,000 hours of TV Shows and Movies in 10 languages and coverage of major global sporting events.

For the latest updates and entertainment from Disney+ Hotstar, follow us on (Instagram) @DisneyPlusHotstar, (Twitter

Govt ensuring last mile coverage to provide health services to remote areas: Prof SP Singh Baghel, MoS, Health & Family Welfare....

 

 

Need to address healthcare concerns of people in India who cannot afford quality healthcare

 

Industry should come forward in promoting blood donation and organ donation across country

 

 

NEW DELHI, 26 October 2023: Prof SP Singh Baghel, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Govt of India today emphasized that the government is working towards providing last mile coverage to provide health services to remote areas in the country. He further added that there is a need to address the healthcare concerns of Indians who are not able to access quality healthcare.

 

Addressing the 17th edition of ‘FICCI HEAL 2023’, Minister Prof Baghel further said that under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), the government, through telemedicine, is trying to provide medical coverage to citizens who cannot access affordable healthcare. He emphasized on the need to promote organ donation and blood donation through massive campaign and urged the industry to come forward to play a lead role in promoting these across the country.

 

Speaking on the success of Ayushman Bharat Program, Prof Baghel stated that over Rs 70,000 crore have been utilized under the PMJAY scheme to promote affordable healthcare in India. He informed that till date over 1.80 crore Ayushman cards and 2.31 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ids have been created. He urged FICCI to organise a consultative meeting with healthcare providers, empanelled under AB-PMJAY, with the Health Ministry officials to deliberate on the concerns and issues of the industry.

 

Highlighting the importance of Jan Aushadhi centres, Prof Baghel underscored the need to promote more affordable and generic medicines while prescribing to patients.

 

Dr Harsh Mahajan, Chair, FICCI Health Services Committee and Founder & Chief Radiologist, Mahajan Imaging and Labs said that the ‘METAmorphosis’ in healthcare is deeply rooted in the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, genomics, and precision medicine, which are revolutionizing diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare management. “These technological advancements are driving unprecedented improvements in patient care, drug discovery, and healthcare research. They demand that we consider the ethical, legal, and social implications of these advancements, and ensure that healthcare remains accessible, equitable, and compassionate,” he added.

 

Dr Narottam Puri, Advisor, FICCI Health Services and MVT Committees; Principal Advisor- QCI; Board Member & Former Chairman – NABH; Advisor- Medical Operations, Fortis Healthcare Ltd said, “At a time when lifestyle disorders are on a rise, technology-backed public and private affordable healthcare is the only solution to confront the new pool of diseases. The future healthcare- its service design and delivery require reimagining healthcare—making it more personal, collaborative, and integrated, enabled by digital capabilities.”

 

Dr Ajay K Singh, Senior Associate Dean for Postgraduate Medical Education; Director, MMSCI, Harvard Medical School said that unequal access, affordability, healthcare spending and shortage of healthcare professionals are important challenges of healthcare scaling in India. “AI and AI solutions are going to be the answer to scalability in healthcare in India,” he added.

 

Dr Sanjeev Singh, Co-Chair, FICCI Health Services Committee; Medical Director, Amrita Institute – Faridabad and Chief Medical Superintendent, AIMSRC Kochi also shared his perspective on the healthcare sector in India.

 

FICCI-KPMG Knowledge Paper ‘New Age Healthcare Delivery Models in India’, was released during the event

Media reports claiming that the Union Government is compromising on smoking warnings for OTT Streaming Services are false and misleading

The Union Government has extended the COTP film rules to OTT Platforms which has been operative from 1st Sept 2023

By bringing OTT under the tobacco control rules, India has become a world leader in tobacco control measures

There is no compromise with the rules; action will be initiated for any non-compliance with the OTT Rules 2023

New Delhi, 21st October, 2023

A reputed news publication has recently made a claim that the Union Government has reached “an uneasy compromise” with OTT (over-the-top) streaming services on adding smoking warnings to their content. The report further claims that some platforms have chosen less intrusive warnings as a result of such an agreement. The news report is misinformed and claims are false, misleading and based on misrepresented facts. 

Considering public health as a priority issue, the Government of India has extended the COTP (Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products) film rules to OTT platform also.  OTT rules 2023 became operative from 1st September 2023. Under these rules, now all OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney + Hotstar, Jio Cinema, Sony LIV, ALTBalaji, Voot etc. have to display anti- tobacco health spots, anti- tobacco health warning as a prominent static message and audio-visual disclaimer on the ill-effect of tobacco use as prescribed in the rules.

This step of the Government has been commended by various public health organizations and experts. By bringing OTT under the tobacco control rules, India has become a world leader in tobacco control measures. 

Hence, the media report is not factually correct and does not reflect the correct picture of the Union Govt’s commitment towards improving public health as one of its priority duties. All OTT platforms are required to strictly comply with the provision of the OTT Rules 2023 as it became effective from 1st September 2023. There is no compromise with the rules and action will be initiated by the Government for any non-compliance with the OTT Rules 2023. 

DORITOS LAUNCHES AN ‘EXPLOSIVE’ NEW TVC FOR DORITOS DINAMITA

• The rolled fiery tortilla chip is adapted and customised for the Indian palette 

• The ‘Har Bite Mein Blast’ TVC showcases the ‘explosive’ Doritos crunch and fiery flavour of Doritos Dinamita

• A robust 360-degree surround campaign is also planned across multiple platforms

 

Link to the TVC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBi5aC_uZi4

New Delhi (18 October, 2023): Igniting its bold persona, Doritos, the world’s number one Nacho Chip brand*, has unveiled a ‘detonating’ new TVC campaign to introduce its explosive new launch – Doritos Dinamita. The bold new introductions are seasoned with extraordinary flavours and deliver a big crunch in every bite.

Drawing inspiration from its globally successful format, Doritos Dinamita has launched in two ‘explosive’ flavours – Fiery Lime and Chilli and Sizzlin’ Hot – which have been adapted and customised for the Indian palette. With this differentiated offering, Doritos aims to retain its leadership in one of the fastest growing tortilla chips market in the world.

Bringing to life the snack’s ‘explosive’ format, the film features a bunch of campers who are stranded in the middle of nowhere but saved by the bold move of the youngest in the group. As the campers desperately wait to be rescued for over two days, they fail to get the attention of the chopper hovering over them. Just then, the youngest of the lot stumbles on the last packet of Doritos Dinamita in his backpack. Looking at the dynamite shape and explosive flavour of the chip, he has a ‘eureka’ moment. He crunches on the chip to create an explosion that diverts the chopper back to the campsite, successfully rescuing all of them.

Speaking on the new film, Pranshu Sahni, Category Lead, Doritos, PepsiCo India, “At Doritos, we have always our consumer at the centre of our communication, connecting with them through our innovative products and bold storytelling. While the all-new Doritos Dinamita perfectly embodies the boldness of the consumer it's designed for, we wanted to amplify its crunch with a compelling narrative. Through our film, we’ve not only highlighted the ‘explosive’ nature of the product, but also our strong believe in bold self-expression.”

Vikram Pandey (Spiky), National Creative Director, Leo Burnett said, “New Doritos Dinamita is shaped like a dynamite and has a fiery taste, this gave rise to the idea of ‘Har Bite Mein Blast’. Our film dramatizes this idea in the brand’s signature style of humour. The film will be followed up with an extensive integrated campaign that will play up the blast aspect of the product." 

Not limited to a TVC, the Doritos Dinamita ‘Har Bite Mein Blast’ campaign will be brought to life through a robust 360-degree surround campaign. Doritos Dinamita is available at INR 20 and INR 30 across all leading retail and e-commerce platforms in India.

AGENCY CREDITS:

Creative Agency – Leo Burnett 

Dheeraj Sinha – CEO & Chief Strategy Officer–South Asia 

Raj Deepak Das – CEO & Chief Creative Officer–South Asia 

Samir Gangahar – President-North 

Vikram Pandey – National Creative Director

Saarthak Dutt – Executive Creative Director 

Atin Ahluwalia – Creative Director 

Hardik Trivedi – Creative Director 

Syed Imran Imamuddin – Associate Creative Director 

Sneha Rajpurohit – Senior Copywriter 

Bikash Patra – Art Director

Neha Kapoor – Vice President

Uday Lalotra – Brand Services Partner

Shriya Sachdeva – Senior Brand Services Associate

Noor Samra – Senior Vice President

Shailja Dhoundiyal – Brand Strategy Director

Production House – The Pack

Director – Vivek Kakkar

***

About Doritos:

Doritos, the world’s number one nacho brand*, is present in over 55 countries globally. Doritos is targeted at Indian consumers in the 18-to-30-year age bracket, residing in urban and semi-urban centres. Doritos is available in the following flavours: Nacho Cheese, Sweet Chili, Sizzlin’ Hot, Dinamita Fiery Lime and Chilli, Dinamita Sizzlin’ Hot and in five price points, at INR 10, INR 20, INR 30, INR 50 & INR 85. The product is available across India through a mix of large format retail chains, online channels, and neighbourhood stories.

About PepsiCo India:

PepsiCo entered India in 1989 and has grown to become one of the largest food and beverage businesses in India. PepsiCo India’s diverse portfolio includes iconic brands like Pepsi, Lay’s, Kurkure, Tropicana 100%, Gatorade and Quaker. Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Convenient Foods and Beverages by Winning with Pep+ “Winning with Pep+” reflects our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace and embed purpose into all aspects of the business. We believe that continuously improving the products we sell, operating responsibly to protect our planet and empowering people around the world is what enables PepsiCo to run a successful global company that creates long-term value for society and our shareholders. In 2009, PepsiCo India achieved a significant milestone, by becoming the first business to achieve ‘Positive Water Balance’ in the beverage world, a fact verified by Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu India Pvt. Ltd. The company has been Water Positive since then. For more information, please visit www.pepsicoindia.co.in.

DRI busts major gold smuggling syndicate in pan-India operation

Posted On: 15 OCT 2023 3:02PM by PIB Mumbai

 

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) busted a syndicate involved in smuggling foreign-origin gold through land and train routes. In a meticulously planned and well-coordinated operation involving DRI teams across three locations, a huge quantity of smuggled gold, weighing around 31.7 Kg valued at around Rs. 19 crores, was seized in Varanasi, Nagpur and Mumbai on 13 and 14 October, 2023.

Acting on specific intelligence, the Nagpur DRI team apprehended two carriers of gold when they alighted at Nagpur railway station from a train that started from Kolkata. Foreign marked gold weighing 8.5 Kg was recovered from them. Following interrogation of the carriers, the DRI team also identified and apprehended two receivers of the smuggled gold.

The Varanasi team managed to apprehend two of the accused and their car when they were travelling in UP, after a 3-hour dramatic chase on the road and a search operation inside the forest, with the help of local police. About 18.2 Kg of gold was recovered from the duo and from a cavity made below the handbrake of the car.

The Mumbai team managed to trace five accused on the roads of Mumbai after they had travelled from Varanasi by train, carrying gold. The team recovered 4.9 Kg gold from them.

An interrogation of the accused revealed that the syndicate used to smuggle gold into India via the borders of Bangladesh and further diverted the same to Mumbai, Nagpur, Varanasi etc. With due diligence and coordinated plan of action, the DRI arrested 11 people -- five people in Mumbai, two in Varanasi and four in Nagpur. The arrested persons cover offenders at all rungs of the gold smuggling syndicate viz. carriers/passengers, handlers, and final recipients of the smuggled gold.

The operation shows the persistent ability of the DRI to work in a professional way to unearth syndicates that pose a threat to the economic security of the country. It also highlights the fruitfulness of inter-agency cooperation in such a pan-India operations.

***

RB/PK

Dazzling extravaganza of the year! CNM &ND Parekh Pre- Primary School

Grand Carnival Extravaganza for their students and outside community.

Step right up to the most dazzling extravaganza of the year! CNM &ND Parekh Pre- Primary School is set to ignite the evening with The Grand Carnival, an event that promises to leave you spell bound.

Prepare to be enchanted as the grounds metamorphose into a resplendent wonderland, adorned with heart-pounding rides, enchanting games, an assortment of delectable delights to tantalize your taste buds.

From the spine-tingling roller coaster rides to classic carnival games, there's an endless array of entertainment to satisfy all ages. Savor the whimsical allure of cotton candy and popcorn, or relish savory indulgences that will appease even the most discerning palate.

But that's not all! The stage will come alive with the talents of remarkable performers, as they mesmerize with their acts, serenade with live music, and enthrall with captivating dance performances.The evening will be an unceasing cascade of entertainment , ensuring that every moment is one of pure joy and mirth.

So, mark your calendar and assemble your loved ones for an evening of indelible memories at CNM & ND Parekh Pre-Primary School's Carnival.

This is an opportunity to forge lasting conections and relish every single moment .

CNM & ND Parekh Pre-Primary School Cordially invites you to the most exhilarating event of the year.

The Grand Carnival!

Date: 21st October 2023

Time- 5.00-9.00 PM

Venue: CNM & ND Parekh Pre- Primary School.