Mumbai: In a significant stride forward, Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) and BharatCares to advance Colgate’s Bright Smiles Bright Futures initiative. This expansive state-wide project has been designed to champion oral health and hygiene and provide nutrition education to children aged 6-15 in schools across Uttar Pradesh .
As a part of this association, the company will introduce five crucial missions – the right way to brush, brushing twice a day, changing brushes every three months, saying no to tobacco, and promoting nutritious food choices. Moreover, through the distribution of dental kits, brushing calendars, teacher training guides, and certificates, this program aims to empower children with lifelong oral health knowledge.
Commenting on the partnership, Shilpashree Muniswamappa, Director – ESG & Communications Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited shared, “As we set our sights on an ambitious goal to positively impact ten million children by 2025, this alliance with the UP Government marks a strategic leap forward towards our steadfast commitment of creating lasting change in oral health and overall well-being. Together we endeavour to touch the lives of millions of young adults across Uttar Pradesh, leaving an indelible mark on their health and future.”
Since its inception in 1976, Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® program has been a beacon of hope, positively touching the lives of over 171 million children across India. With unwavering dedication, BSBF has tirelessly instilled essential oral care practices, imparted critical knowledge on tobacco prevention, and underscored the significance of nutritious dietary habits for optimal oral health.
Durga Shanker Mishra, Chief Secretary, GoUP, expressed gratitude during his special address and stated, “The impact achieved today deserves a heartfelt congratulations and sincere gratitude. It’s the start of something bigger and better. Guided by the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister and propelled by the leadership of the worthy Chief Minister of the state, the Govt. Uttar Pradesh is eager to engage and collaborate to create a model of effective and efficient governance for CSR sector. The state machinery is poised to enable skilling with speed and scale to catalyse a newer revitalised Uttar Pradesh.”