Championing Inclusion and Accessibility Through Meaningful Dialogue and Engagement
Mumbai: Eveready Industries India Ltd., a leading name in the Indian battery and flashlight market, marked the International Week of Deaf People through a first-of-a-kind initiative at the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan) in Mumbai. This apex institute, operating under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, is dedicated to providing comprehensive services for individuals with speech and hearing impairments.
The event, titled “Surakshit Kanya: Sashakt Kanya”, aimed to raise awareness of the critical issues faced by deaf women and creating safety measures for deaf women. Eveready actively engaged with approximately 50 attendees, including deaf students, parents, teachers, and staff from over ten schools across the city, focusing on safety for deaf adults, particularly women aged 16 and above.
The session for deaf adults was coordinated by Dr. Gayatri Ahuja, Head of Department, Department of Education at AYJNISHD. With a key focus on women’s safety, the session included a demonstration of Eveready’s Siren Torch for personal safety. Additionally, Mr. Alok Kejriwal and Ms. Pooja Barot from India Signing Hands, were present to address the audience and share their experiences.
Insiyah Chawala, General Manager – Flashlights & NPDs, at Eveready Industries India Ltd, stated, “At Eveready, we believe in the power of innovation to make a positive impact on society. Our participation in the International Week of Deaf People reflects our commitment to societal inclusivity and safety for all. The Siren Torch is more than just a product; it’s a means of empowerment, allowing individuals to signal for help in distressing situations, regardless of their ability to vocalise.”
The session aligned with this year’s theme—”Sign Up for Sign Language Rights“—showcasing Eveready’s Siren Torch as a must have essential for individuals facing potentially hostile situations. The torch’s powerful 100 dBA alarm and flashing capabilities can help draw attention in emergencies. After the session, Eveready distributed Siren Torches to attendees as a thoughtful gesture to celebrate the event’s success and honour the attendees’ high spirits.
Dr. Suman Kumar, the Director of the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities commented, “We are pleased to collaborate with Eveready on this important initiative. This session not only equips our students with valuable safety knowledge but also reinforces the message that everyone has the right to feel secure and empowered, regardless of their disability.”
This initiative by Eveready underscores the company’s commitment towards social responsibility and its dedication to addressing the unique needs of diverse communities. By focusing on the deaf community during the International Week of Deaf People 2024, Eveready aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and contribute to their safety and well-being.