News Broadcasting
Serum Institute of India launches the biggest immunisation awareness drive – ‘Swasth Immunised India’ in association with Network18
MUMBAI: Serum Institute of India (SII), one of the world's largest vaccine manufacturers today launched a nation-wide vaccination and immunisation campaign called ‘Swasth Immunised India’ in association with Network18, India's most diversified media conglomerate. Endorsed by popular and eminent actor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, the campaign aims to spread awareness on the importance and benefits of immunisation among the general populace. The campaign in addition to building awareness will work towards dispelling myths and misconceptions pertaining to the administration of vaccines.
Commenting on the initiative, Adar Poonawalla, CEO, Serum Institute of India, said, “Vaccination is an integral part of public health system. It has proved to be instrumental in combating and curbing fatal contagious diseases. A majority of people in India still refrain from vaccination due to lack of knowledge and misconceptions around vaccines. We believe this reluctance needs to be addressed as it is a major contributing factor to the growing infant and child fatality rate. Swasth Immunised India is a step forward to tackle these issues eliminate the cause by focusing on its effects and benefits. We will ensure that Swasth Immunised India representatives follow a door-to-door approach in spreading awareness among the marginalized and unaware sections of the society.”
Vaccination has been accredited to be one of the most affordable and feasible method to prevent life-threatening diseases. India's long-standing tryst to attain full immunisation has awarded it with successful eradication of deadly diseases such as Polio and Small Pox. Continued efforts implemented by leading global institutions and organizations has put India in the forefront to tackle the impending problem of full immunisation coverage. Despite of the government and other bodies’ proactive approach, India is still home to the highest number of unvaccinated (56%) and incompletely vaccinated children (32%).
“A strong personality, with great conviction and stature, there could not have been a better face for the campaign than Kareena Kapoor Khan. Her role as an influencer and as a mother will help in taking our message far as well as garner more acceptance towards the initiative. As a responsible and generous corporate, Serum Institute of India will also provide free vaccines across various locations in India. We will also look to base vaccination camps at strategic and convenient points that will provide all the required information to mothers and families regarding the health and development of a child”, added Adar.
Speaking on the association, Priyanka Kaul, President – Marketing & Special Projects, Network18, said, “Network18 has been at the forefront of leading social change in the nation. In the past we have supported campaigns for road safety, pollution- free air, cleanliness drive under ‘Swachch Bharat’ and similar issues that are paramount for building a responsible and healthy society. Healthcare, education and mentoring have been the cornerstones of our social responsibility as the largest news network in the country. We are extremely delighted to have associated with Serum Institute of India for the Swasth Immunised India campaign. We hope that our widespread network that covers the length and breadth of the country will aid in spreading the message across the entire nation. Working along with the government, Swasth Immunised India will reinforce the aim of full immunisation coverage via continuous interpersonal education and awareness.”
On the association, Adar Poonawalla, said, “Network18 has a large base of loyal audience spread across the country. We are glad to have partnered with the media conglomerate for Swasth Immunised India. Reaching the remotest areas via Network18’s vast regional news network will help in raising awareness and achieving the goal of the campaign.”
Speaking about the campaign, Kareena Kapoor Khan, said, “Swasth Immunised India is a great initiative to promote and educate families on the importance of vaccination and providing a healthy life to children. This cause is extremely close to my heart as being a mother, I value the importance of immunizing my child from dangerous diseases. Due to lack of accessibility and affordability our country still witnesses the largest number of infant deaths. It is high time that we come together and take it upon us to be the changemakers. I am really excited and feel honoured to be a part of this journey with Adar and Natasha Poonawalla's Serum Institute and Network18. I hope that through this campaign we are able to educate and influence every parent leading to a healthier India.”
News Broadcasting
News18 India launches Command Centre war explainer with Arya
New show shifts from debates to decoding global conflicts and impacts
MUMBAI: News18 India has rolled out a new war-focused programme, Command Centre, featuring Gaurav Arya, as it looks to offer viewers a sharper, more grounded take on global conflicts amid rising tensions in West Asia.
Positioned as an “insider war room”, the show moves away from conventional panel debates and instead focuses on explaining military developments, decoding strategy and connecting global events to their everyday impact, from fuel prices to economic shifts.
The format leans heavily on visuals and data. The studio has been designed like a command hub, complete with large LED war maps, real-time graphics and an alert system to track developments as they unfold.
At the centre of it all is Arya, who brings his military background to simplify complex war strategies for viewers. His signature line, “Seedhi baat samjhiye”, anchors the show’s promise of clarity over noise.
News18 India managing editor Jyoti Kamal said, “Command Centre, featuring Major Gaurav Arya is designed to deliver accurate insights and a clear perspective on how evolving conflicts impact everyday life, from household budgets to national security. With expert voices analysing every development in real time, the show goes beyond headlines to decode what’s happening now, what it means, and what could come next.”
Echoing the intent, Gaurav Arya added, “In times of war, confusion is the biggest threat. With News18 India’s Command Centre, we are bringing viewers inside the war room, decoding strategies, tracking every escalation, and explaining, in the simplest terms, what it means for India and for every household. Seedhi baat samjhiye, this is where you understand not just what is happening, but what happens next.”
The weekday show will air in the afternoon slot and will also feature Gaurav Shukla, adding to its editorial depth.
With its mix of analysis, visuals and a clear focus on impact, the show reflects a broader shift in news consumption. Viewers are no longer just watching events unfold, they are looking to understand what those events mean for them.
