MAM
ZEE & SNEHA unite for maternal health program benefiting 8,000 women in Bhiwandi
Mumbai: On International Women’s Day, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL), India’s leading content company, shed light on the groundbreaking initiative – Integrated Maternal and Child Health Program developed in partnership with the Society for Nutrition Education and Health Action (SNEHA). The program developed for communities in Bhiwandi, Thane District, stood as a beacon of empowerment for women across the region.
Recognising the urgent need for action, ZEE partnered with SNEHA to bolster this vital project, which has touched the lives of over 8,000 women from September 2022. Operating within Bhiwandi’s vulnerable communities, including married women of reproductive age, children aged 0-2 years, dedicated community volunteers, and essential systems staff; the program addressed a myriad of pressing health concerns. With ZEE’s support, SNEHA conducted a comprehensive assessment, uncovering prevalent health issues such as maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality, along with the alarming rates of communicable and non-communicable diseases like tuberculosis and hypertension and diabetes within Bhiwandi’s 44 per cent urban slum population. The community grappled with a staggering 24 per cent rate of home-based child deliveries, coupled with late registration for hospital delivery, subpar immunization rates, and distressing instances of gender-based violence.
In response to these challenges, ZEE and SNEHA collaboratively developed and implemented a pioneering community-based urban healthcare model, addressing reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (RMNCH) concerns. This holistic approach extended to combating malnutrition, gender-based violence (GBV), tuberculosis (TB), and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), in close partnership with the local public health systems in Bhiwandi.
Neonatologist and SNEHA founder Dr Armida Fernandez said, “We established SNEHA in response to the dire health challenges faced by low-income households, especially mothers and children. Our goal is to improve health-seeking behaviour and enhance the quality of public health services in underserved communities. Witnessing the transformation of 8,000 women through our program fills us with immense gratitude, and we extend our heartfelt appreciation for the invaluable support received from ZEE.”
Reflecting on the significance of this program and its success, ZEE president – HR and transformation Animesh Kumar said, “Partnering with SNEHA on this transformative initiative has been an incredibly fulfilling journey for us. Together, we’ve not only empowered communities but also created a tangible impact on maternal and child health in Bhiwandi. By synergizing our resources and expertise, we’ve reached thousands of women and children, providing them with the crucial support and care needed for a healthier tomorrow. Today, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, the success of this project serves as a powerful testament to the immense potential of collective action in driving positive change and fostering inclusive growth.”
Since the inception of the partnership, there has been a 12 per cent increase in the adoption of modern contraception methods among women. This substantial growth is testament to the fact that it provided women with a newfound agency to make informed choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health.
The comprehensive approach implemented by SNEHA and ZEE resulted in tangible improvements in community health indicators, with noticeable reductions in maternal and neonatal mortality rates, increased access to essential healthcare services, and heightened awareness about preventive measures. Furthermore, the collaborative effort fostered a sense of empowerment among women, enabling them to take charge of their health and well-being, thus paving the way for a brighter and healthier future for generations to come.
MAM
Ameya Velankar steps down as Uber’s head of marketing for India & South Asia
Veteran marketer exits after more than seven years with the ride-hailing giant.
MUMBAI: After more than seven years of steering Uber through the bumpy roads of India’s mobility market, Ameya Velankar has decided to change lanes. Ameya Velankar has stepped down as Head of Marketing for India and South Asia, marking the end of a significant chapter at the ride-hailing company. He had been with Uber since 2019, taking on multiple roles in product and category marketing before rising to lead the marketing function for the region in 2021.
During his tenure, Velankar played a key role in strengthening Uber’s positioning in one of its most competitive and dynamic markets. He helped drive localised marketing strategies and scale adoption across key offerings such as Auto, Moto, Rentals and Intercity, tailoring global platforms to Indian consumer needs.
Prior to joining Uber, Velankar built his marketing expertise at leading consumer companies including SC Johnson and Marico, where he handled category and product leadership roles. His career began at RPG Enterprises.
Details of his next professional move have not been disclosed.
In a fast-evolving mobility landscape where brands constantly battle for attention, Ameya Velankar helped Uber stay relevant and resonant with millions of Indian users. As he moves on from the driver’s seat of marketing, the company will now look for fresh ideas to keep its wheels turning smoothly.
