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Philips to launch products with rural focus

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Rajiv Gupta New Delhi
Dutch electronics giant Philips will soon launch products targeted at India's rural population. These include a smokeless chullah (wood stove), rechargeable lantern, hand-wound rechargeable torch and a water purifier.
 
Making the announcement at the 'Simplicity Event', organised in Hong Kong from March 13 to 15, Philips Domestic Appliances and Personal Care CEO Andrea Ragnetti said microfinance was one of the options being considered by Philips to sell the smokeless chullah, a pilot project, which has already been undertaken by the company.
 
"NGOs have given us the feedback on rural requirements in India. It is through them (NGOs) and the local administration that we will help the villagers to use the stove and save fuel and protect their health," Ragnetti said. He, however, clarified that these products were not aimed at philanthropy, but creating a sustainable business model.
 
Among the other products and concepts unveiled at the event, organised to showcase the company's brand theme of 'Sense and Simplicity', included a lighting device that allows the user to change light colours to suit his tastes, 'amBX' gaming peripherals, a lamp that stimulates the rising sun, touch-screen message board and an interactive voice activated story book. "Most of these concepts were developed in Asia itself," said Ragnetti.
 
Philips consumer electronics CEO Rudy Provoost said, "Asia, particularly India, has a huge potential. Hence, the focus will be on this region now. Some concepts are ready, while others are on the way."
 
The company is also increasing its presence in the healthcare sector in Asia Pacific through a "combination of 'simplicity'-led designs, innovations and collaborations, particularly aimed at prevention".
 
"Healthcare is more than just another large industry. It is a vital sector that touches everybody," said Wayne Spittle, vice-president and general manager of Philips Medical Systems (MCR-Asia Pacific). "We believe that future healthcare solutions and practices need to connect and empower societies, help providers and consumers advance quality of life and create additional value," he said.
 
Also lined up at the expo was Philips Sonicare "� the sonic toothbrush that vibrates 31,000 times per minute. "We found that the oral care regime of Asian consumers is very treatment-focused rather than preventive. Very few are aware that poor oral health could increase the risk of other diseases," said David Hughes, marketing and sales director of Philips Oral Health Care for Asia.

 
 

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First Published: Mar 25 2007 | 12:00 AM IST

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