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