Speaking on the occasion Mr. Chander Mohan Sethi, Chairman and Managing Director, Reckitt Benckiser, India said, "Dettol in association with IMA have played a key role in taking social responsibilities to educate the masses. The launch of `Dettol Surakshit Parivar', which is a nationwide program, further emphasizes Dettol`s commitments towards providing superior germ protection to every family."

'Dettol Surakshit Parivar' kickstarts with the "New Mother"program, in which over 12 lakh new Mother's across 6 metros will be contacted. They will be provided with a Baby Care Booklet (in local languages) giving them essential tips to protect the new born from illness causing germs and infections. They will also be given free sample of Dettol Antiseptic Liquid, as following a good hygiene regime from the start not only protects against risk of infection/ illness but also lays the foundation for good hygiene practices which go a long way in protecting against germ threats in years to come.

"We, at Dettol, believe that families that adopt good hygiene practices remain better protected against illness causing germs and fall ill less often. Dettol demonstrates its commitment to the community not just through the quality of its products but also through socially responsible initiatives like Dettol Surakshit Parivar."said, Ms Anne Engerant Regional Marketing Director Reckitt Benckiser further added.

Dettol will also be embarking upon School Handwash Program whereby children are educated on the importance and procedure of a complete handwash as washing hands regularly is the single most important thing that one can do to protect oneself from illness causing germs. Through this program over 3 lakh students will be contacted. Along with distribution of leaflets on Handwash, students with 100% attendance get the "Dettol 100% attendance award".

Finally, the Hospital program, whereby Dettol will be reaching out to hospitals and conducting awareness programs with nurses with regard to different illness causing bacteria/virus, and methods of ensuring a germ free environment. Additionally, it will also work with hospitals to disseminate relevant information/public health messages on first aid methods, immunization etc. to the general public.

Dr. Dharam Prakash, Joint Secretary of IMA, said, "The services offered to the people through Dettol Surakshit Parivar Program are extremely significant. We are certain that this partnership between the Indian Medical Association and Dettol will go a long way in inculcating good hygiene values and practices in ones family"

Dettol is a brand of Reckitt Benckiser and has stood for "trusted production"in India since the 1930's. The brand is endorsed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and has been voted among India 's Most Trusted Brand in recent years (2002 to 2005 ORG Marg Brand Equity Survey).

Reckitt Benckiser (India) Limited, formerly known as Reckitt & Colman of India Limited, has many brands in India, namely - Dettol, Veet, Harpic, Mortein, Robin Blue, Cherry, Lizol, Colin, Disprin, Brasso, Mansion and others. It has major presence in home and personal care, surface care, fabric care, pest control and drugs. The company is present in 180 countries across the world and is No.1 in Household Cleaning Category. As seen across segments, Reckitt Benckiser brands are either number 1 or 2 in market share, in all the segments they are present in.

About IMA

Indian Medical Association is the only representative, national voluntary organization of Doctors of Modern Scientific System of Medicine, which looks after the interest of doctors as well as the well being of the community at large. I.M.A. is a well established organization with its Headquarters at Delhi and State / Territories. Branches in 23 States and 9 Union Territories . It has over 1,78,000 doctors as its members through over 1700 local branches spread all over the country.