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Sudhanshu Vats, Managing Director of Pidilite Industries Ltd, has been appointed as the chairman of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) at its 39th annual general meeting. Vats will play a crucial role in shaping the organization’s direction as it prepares to mark its 40th year in October. He emphasized the importance of ASCI’s role in ensuring that advertising is executed with integrity, respect, and mindfulness of consumers.

ASCI also announced the appointment of S Subramanyeswar of MullenLowe Global as vice-chairman and Paritosh Joshi, Principal at Provocateur Advisory, as honorary treasurer. Outgoing chairman Partha Sinha reflected on the council’s journey, highlighting its evolution from a watchdog to an enabler of responsible communication. He noted that ASCI has expanded its footprint, partnered with various stakeholders, and stepped into the digital arena to promote responsible advertising.

To mark its 40th year, ASCI has announced a range of new initiatives aimed at promoting responsible advertising and consumer trust. These include a children’s advertising and media literacy program called AdWise, which will train over a million school students. The organization will also conduct ethnographic research among Gen Alpha to build a framework for responsible advertising. Additionally, ASCI plans to expand its presence in Bengaluru and Delhi, launch a comprehensive resource for advertising codes and laws in India, and introduce a podcast series with The Logical Indian and Marketing Minds.

Vats emphasized the importance of self-regulation in the advertising industry, stating that it provides guidance to the industry and assurance to the public. He looks forward to working closely with advertisers, agencies, platforms, and consumers to uphold high standards, encourage responsible creativity, and strengthen confidence in advertising. With its new leadership and initiatives, ASCI aims to continue promoting responsible advertising and consumer trust in the industry. The organization’s efforts are crucial in today’s environment, where trust is easily shaken, and self-regulation is essential to ensure that advertising is executed with integrity and respect for consumers.