Now it is his turn to find fault with the Indian Medical Association for its moves to endorse Pepsi company’s Products ‘Tropicana Pure Juices’ and ‘Quaker Oats’. The Union Health Minister, Dr.Anbumani Ramadoss has commented that the IMA should focus more on irrational use of drugs and blood products rather than endorsing ‘Dettol and Juices’ Instead of endorsing commercials, the Association join hands with the Union Health Ministry in its activities against Tuberculosis and Malaria organize more medical education sessions.
It is not as if the IMA has not done these type of endorsements earlier;it had endorsed brand like ‘Eureka Forbes’ for which it is reported to have received a consideration of Rs.3 crores. In the case of Pepsi, it is reported to have netted an amount of Rs.50 Lakhs. A similar deal, according to its officials, has been struck with Hindustan Lever for promoting ‘sanitary Napkin’; besides talks are on with Dabur for sponsoring their products.
According to the spokesperson of IMA, such proceeds would be used by the Association for organizing activities, conferences and seminars.
If this being the case, it is not clear as to why the Minister should find fault with such productive activities.
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