Raichur, 30 January 2024: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today held the annual event of the ABCD (A Behavioural Change Demonstration) sanitation and hygiene awareness program in Raichur, that was launched earlier in August 2023, since then, the program has made significant and strong progress. This event, saw the enthusiastic participation of school children and teachers of 100 participating government schools demonstrating strong engagement and contribution towards the advancement of the sanitation program in Raichur district.
The event was graced by Shri Shashikant Shivapure Deputy Secretary Zilla Panchayat, Shri. Venkob Rao In charge Block Education Officer Raichur, along with Mr R Roshan, General Manager, EA State, CSR & BIA, TKM
The event witnessed various impactful activities aimed at promoting hygiene practices among school children like puppet shows, quiz and drawing competitions, experience sharing by students and teachers, fostering a platform to gain knowledge and motivate children to overcome taboos and adopt good sanitation, hygiene practices and spreading awareness amongst the society through child-to-community approach.
As the world’s most populous country, India is grappling with a pressing demand for enhanced sanitation facilities, prompting the initiation of government-led programs like “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.” The inception of TKM’s ABCD Program dates to 2015, and its successful implementation across 1004 government schools in Ramanagara District, have had a positive impact on more than 58,000 students. Considering the transformational outcome of this program on society, this initiative was published in the Harvard Business Review and is a part of the collection of case studies at the prestigious Harvard Business School. Besides the program stands as a notable accomplishment in empowering students, encouraging behavioural shifts towards enhanced hygiene and sanitation, and nurturing ambassadors within their schools and communities, this program has been expanded to Raichur district from August ’2023.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Chandrashekhar Nayaka L, Deputy Commissioner, Raichur said, “Today’s event marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards a cleaner and healthier Raichur. We are delighted to witness the continued success and progress of Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s ABCD sanitation program, which continues to be a proven catalyst for positive transformation and improved well-being for all. It is heartening to see enthusiastic participation of our young minds embracing their roles as ambassadors of change within their schools and communities. We appreciate TKM’s dedication to social responsibility and believe that such initiatives not only contribute to the immediate well-being of our community but also lay the foundation for a sustainable and healthier future. We look forward to continued collaboration for the betterment of Raichur and its residents.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs & Governance,Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We are elated to have conducted the annual event of the ABCD program with a series of impactful activities for school children at Raichur. This event exemplifies Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s unwavering dedication to corporate social responsibility and community development. The profound impact of the ABCD sanitation program on the community, coupled with its effectiveness in empowering students and catalysing a mindset change, has truly been inspiring. We are deeply honoured by the widespread recognition and appreciation received from key stakeholders, including the community and the Government. Our collaboration with the education department, local authorities, and stakeholders remains resolute, aiming to create a lasting transformational impact in the Raichur district, fostering positive change and improved well-being for all. Through this initiative, our goal is to initiate a significant behavioural shift towards better sanitation practices, not only within schools but also in homes and communities.”
In Raichur, the ABCD Program is planned to cover over 1600 schools in phased manner over benefitting over 2,50,000 students. In the first phase is currently underway covering 100 Government schools and approximately 26,700+ students, while the remaining schools will be covered in the subsequent phases.
TKM is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of people through its community development initiatives. The ABCD sanitation program is a testament to the company’s commitment to creating a healthier and more sustainable future for the community and the country.
