Proctor & Gamble (P&G) will contribute Rs 50 crore to ensure the vaccination of over 5 lakh citizens. In a statement, the company said that the amount was pledged in partnership with the government and local bodies. It would ensure the successful inoculation of the populace against the unrestrained spread of COVID-19.
The consumer goods giant also stated that for every one of its employees in India, it will donate towards the vaccination of a 100 Indians. Additionally, the vaccination of all P&G employees in India, along with their eligible immediate family members, will be covered by the company and provided free of cost.
The company also said that the pledged amount would have top priority in its CSR funds for the current year.
With the country set to start Phase-III of its COVID vaccination program, this is an encouraging development. Although state governments have talked about free vaccination programmes, the administration will still have to shoulder the high costs. P&G’s contribution of Rs 50 crore will certainly help ease the burden.
P&G Indian Subcontinent CEO Madhusan Gopalan said, “In the current situation and going forward, vaccines play a critical role in containing the spread of the virus. We strongly believe that partnering with various governments and local authorities, who are leading the inoculation initiatives for citizens will enable us to make a meaningful difference to the communities we operate in.”
This announcement will prove to be a great complement to P&G’s #PGSurakshaIndia program. It was launched by P&G after the outbreak of the pandemic. Joining hands with the government and other organizations, #PGSurakshaIndia has been ceaselessly helping frontline workers and communities from the get-go.
P&G brands like Whisper, Pampers, Oral-B, Vicks, Head & Shoulders and Pantene have also joined the drive with their respective brand initiatives. These brands have also played their part in the #PGSurakshaIndia campaign by donating more than 35 lakh worth of health, hygiene and cleaning products.
The next phase of vaccination will start on May 1st and we can expect the company to commence its drive very soon. As of now, no mention has been made as to where these vaccines will be available.