Imagine a world where marketing goes beyond selling products and instead focuses on making a real difference in people’s lives. In a landscape typically filled with conventional marketing campaigns, Hyundai’s Samarth initiative shines brightly as a beacon of hope and change. This initiative not only promotes inclusivity for differently abled people but also sets a new standard for corporate social responsibility.
A Star-Studded Launch for a Noble Cause
The launch event for Samarth was nothing short of spectacular, featuring prominent figures such as Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, and leading disability rights activists from across India. This gathering sparked essential conversations about creating a barrier-free environment for individuals with disabilities. With Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan as the face of the initiative, the event garnered significant media attention, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about disability rights. Hyundai has partnered with NDTV and other media outlets to amplify these discussions, uniting various stakeholders to develop actionable solutions.
Driving Change Through Collaboration
Hyundai’s commitment to change extends beyond awareness. The Hyundai Motor India Foundation, the company’s CSR arm, has teamed up with NGOs like GoSports Foundation and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled. These collaborations aim to provide comprehensive support to para-athletes and blind cricketers in India. Notably, Hyundai has pledged to distribute assistive devices to 684 individuals with disabilities over the next three years (2024-2026). Let’s explore more about this inspiring campaign
The first Samarth Blind Cricket Championship showcased this commitment, where the Indian Men’s Blind Cricket team triumphed over Sri Lanka with a resounding 5-0 victory. Additionally, during the Samarth Assistive Devices Conclave in Bengaluru, 72 beneficiaries received custom-made assistive devices, marking a significant step towards empowerment.
Internal Changes for External Impact
Hyundai is also making strides within its own operations to support the Samarth initiative. As of March 31, 2024, an impressive 99% of Hyundai showrooms across India are wheelchair accessible. Furthermore, the company has introduced TurnPlus, a swivel seat mechanism designed to assist passengers with special needs.
Tarun Garg, Wholetime Director & Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India Limited, expressed the company’s vision: “At Hyundai Motor India, we don’t just make cars; we believe in empowering society. Through Samarth, we aim to create a more inclusive society and ease the way of living for differently-abled individuals in India.” This commitment reflects Hyundai’s broader mission of “Progress for Humanity,” aligning with their pillars of Earth, Mobility, and Hope.
Final Thoughts
Hyundai’s Samarth initiative has the potential to ignite significant societal change by promoting inclusivity and accessibility for people with disabilities. As more corporations, governments, and communities rally behind such causes, the hope is to create an environment where everyone can thrive, regardless of their physical abilities. Initiatives like Samarth serve as a reminder that we all have a role to play in building a more empathetic and inclusive world.