SAFAIGIRI ON THE GROUND
TV Today Network Ltd CSR Initiative
TV Today Network Ltd donated Rs 1,65,42,533 to the Care Today Fund for FY 2015-16, consistent with Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013. The Care Today Fund established Care Today A/c TV Today Network Ltd (FY 2015-16) and deployed these funds to implement six projects aligned to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
The Care Today Fund implemented one of these six projects in partnership with the Visishta Gramodaya Swayam ‘Sadhana’ Parishad (VGSSP), an NGO based in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. VGSSP was provided a grant of Rs 48,23,750 to construct 200 household twin-pit toilets and bathrooms in the villages of Veduruvada (56), Gollagunta (28), Dibbala Gorlivanipalem (20), Polireddipalem (35), Kunchuvanipalem (41) and Dalaipalem (20) in Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh.
The Care Today Fund’s decision to support the initiative was based on the rationale that the identified villages for project implementation were severely affected by cyclone Hudhud in 2014; were located in the coastal region and prone to cyclones; the beneficiary communities were poor without adequate access to livelihood opportunities and faced increasing difficulties in maintaining hygiene.
In the face of severe logistical challenges, active and extensive community participation ensured the successful completion of the project.
Behavioural change communication and regular kalajathas (awareness camps based on traditional art) by VGSSP contributed to the adoption of toilet use. Women, children and the aged sections of the beneficiary communities have received the household toilet well. During interactions, the community accepted that the project has immensely reduced the threats from various epidemics and communicable disease outbreaks; improved their health status; promoted cleanliness and hygiene; and increased well-being and dignity. VGSSP has also received commendation letters from the district administration for the successful implementation of the project.