OK Play India Inks A Strategic Partnership With MANN+HUMMEL To Tackle Air Pollution

On February 15, 2024, at The Ashok Hotel in Chankyapuri, New Delhi, OK Play India Limited, in collaboration with MANN+HUMMEL, and with sponsorship from the IndoGerman Chamber of Commerce, hosted a symposium titled "Air Pollution-its Causes, Effects, Prevention and Cure." At the Symposium, OK Play India and MANN+HUMMEL unveiled three novel products designed to combat air pollution.

According to the World Health Organisation, around seven million individuals lose their lives as a result of air pollution each year. Air pollution-related causes claimed the lives of almost 2 million Indians.

Shri Rajan Handa, Managing Director, OK Play India Limited, said "We stand at a critical juncture in history, facing a challenge that knows no borders and spares no one - the menace of air pollution. This is not merely about a symposium or unveiling a new technology; it is about igniting a flame of change that spreads far and wide, touching the lives of every Indian.

Today, Air pollution is not a distant problem confined to textbooks or news headlines; it is a stark reality that confronts us every day, permeating our homes, our streets, and our lungs. Air pollution knows no boundaries; it affects us all, indiscriminately. Therefore, a concerted effort, encompassing both governmental and private sector initiatives, is essential."

Mr. Handa said, "Our plea to the government is not one of dependency but partnership. We seek the government's support, not just in terms of regulations or incentives, but as a catalyst for transformative change. To achieve this vision, we must foster collaborations that transcend boundaries and unite diverse stakeholders - from governments and businesses to NGOs and academia."

Shri. Tarun Kapoor, Advisor to Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi said, "During the inaugural event, Shri. Tarun Kapoor, Advisor to Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi, emphasized the significance of the topic, highlighting its complexity and the ongoing nationwide discussions. Shri Tarun Kapoor, Advisor to the Prime Minister at the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), conveyed that India is progressively embracing electric vehicles (EVs) due to concerns related to energy security and the environment. He stated, "The government is now prioritizing the advancement of this sector, aiming not only to increase the presence of electric cars, buses, and two-wheelers on our roads but also to establish India as a global manufacturing hub for these vehicles".

Dr. Hendrik Selle, Minister- Head of the Department for Economic & Global Affairs, German Embassy, said, "We also have a Green & Sustainable Development Partnership with the commitment of 10 billion euros for ten years which also includes reducing air pollution in three Indian cities, which began in 2019."

Mr. Sudeesh Karimbingal - Managing Director MANN+HUMMEL India & Vice President Rest of Asia said, "I am thrilled to announce our partnership with OK Play India Limited., which will play an instrumental role in our efforts to expedite the introduction and adaptation of technology for the specific market needs, aligning with our Hon'ble Prime Minister's vision of "Design and Make in India."

"We acknowledge and appreciate the prompt initiatives undertaken by the Indian government to address this crucial issue. We believe in the immense potential of India's growth story, and the Indo-German strategic partnership plays a pivotal role in achieving a sustainable and self-reliant future.", added Harald Späth- President & GM Original Equipment, MANN+HUMMEL.

Mr.Pankaj Agarwal, Scientist & Divisional Head, Air Quality Management, Central Pollution Control Board, highlighted the measures taken by CPCB to mitigate dust such as MRS, anti-smog guns and fountains. He noted, "As a result of taking various initiatives, out of 131 non-attainment cities under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), 90 cities have improved their PM10 concentration, out of which 50 have met the target also."