JHARSUGUDA, NOV 6
Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest producer of aluminium, successfully conducted a comprehensive awareness campaign in Jharsuguda to mark Global Handwashing Day 2024. The campaign, themed “Why are clean hands still important?” reached residents in 28 villages across the region. The initiative emphasized not only the significance of handwashing but also the importance of other essential hygiene practices to improve overall community health.
The campaign included interactive awareness sessions that focused on proper handwashing techniques as well as key hygiene practices such as maintaining clean surroundings, personal cleanliness, and safe food handling. Over 3,000 community members participated, gaining valuable insights into how simple hygiene actions can significantly reduce the spread of diseases.
Demonstrations on correct handwashing were followed by interactive discussions with health experts. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and enhance their understanding of good hygiene practices. During practical demonstrations, participants showcased their newly acquired knowledge, and the individual with the best handwashing demonstration was awarded a health kit to encourage the adoption of healthy habits.
Commenting on the initiative, Vedanta Aluminium Chief Operating Officer Sunil Gupta, said, “At Vedanta Aluminium, we believe in the power of small actions to bring about significant change. This campaign, in observance of Global Handwashing Day, is part of our broader commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities in which we operate. By promoting good hygiene practices, we aim to reduce disease transmission and create a healthier environment for all.”
Bhavani Buda, who received the health kit for her outstanding demonstration, said, “Learning about basic hygiene practices has been an eye-opening experience for me. These small but impactful changes in our daily routines can ensure better health for ourselves and our families.”
Dr. Jayanarayan Pujari, a doctor at Vedanta’s Mobile Health Unit, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “Handwashing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections. Educating communities on proper handwashing techniques and overall hygiene practices is crucial for maintaining public health and reducing disease transmission.”
Labanga Bag, Sarpanch of Brundamal, also spoke about the success of the initiative, stating, “This Global Handwashing Day marks the culmination of a successful week-long series of events that brought our community together to promote the vital practice of handwashing. These activities have not only educated us on the importance of hygiene but also fostered a collective responsibility for the health of ourselves and those around us. Let us continue embracing this simple yet powerful habit to ensure a healthier future for everyone.”
Through this campaign, Vedanta Aluminium reaffirms its commitment to uplifting the communities surrounding its operations by promoting better health and hygiene practices.
Vedanta’s social interventions across Jharsuguda and nearby areas touch the lives of nearly 80 villages, benefiting over 3 lakh people annually. The company’s efforts span key areas including education, healthcare, livelihood, skill development, grassroots sports, and arts & culture, with a particular focus on women and child development. Vedanta has empowered nearly 5,000 women across 350 Self-Help Groups (SHGs), provides doorstep healthcare services to around 50,000 people annually, supports over 13,000 students with educational initiatives, and has planted almost 1.50 lakh trees in collaboration with local communities.
