New Delhi: A quiet revolution is unfolding in rural India, challenging the deep-rooted stigma around menstruation. For millions of girls, their first period is met with confusion and shame rather than support. Over 70 per cent of girls in rural India are unaware of menstruation before they experience it, which leads to serious health and social consequences.
Sanitary hygiene remains a challenge, with 34 per cent of women relying on unsafe alternatives like old cloth, ash or hay. The financial burden of sanitary pads forces many families to prioritise essentials, leaving girls vulnerable to infections and discomfort. As a result, around 23 million girls drop out of school annually due to inadequate menstrual hygiene management, reinforcing gender inequality, a report by the World Economic Forum said.
Reusable pads: a sustainable solution
A sustainable solution has emerged: reusable cloth-based sanitary pads. These affordable, eco-friendly alternatives last up to five years, reducing financial strain and preventing thousands of disposable pads from polluting the environment. Their multi-layered design ensures hygiene and comfort, with antimicrobial and leak-proof fabrics tested for safety.
CSR partnerships are playing a key role in driving change. Organisations like Samarpann, in collaboration with corporate sponsors, are distributing reusable pads to underserved communities. In Panna, Madhya Pradesh, Samarpann has provided over 5,000 girls with a pack of six reusable pads each, ensuring long-term menstrual health benefits. These initiatives have greatly improved school attendance and overall health, the report said,
Breaking menstrual taboos through education
Beyond distribution, Samarpann is tackling menstrual taboos through education. Their awareness campaigns engage schools and communities, breaking the silence surrounding periods. Each girl also receives an information booklet in her vernacular language, simplifying menstrual health education. The NGO is also introducing period underwear to rural India, offering another innovative hygiene solution.
Engaging boys and men in these discussions is crucial to eradicating stigma. By fostering open conversations, these initiatives create a supportive environment where menstruation is normalised rather than shamed. Corporate-NGO partnerships highlight the power of collaboration in addressing systemic issues. Expanding these efforts requires continued investment and societal commitment. Ensuring menstrual dignity for every girl means enabling her to stay in school, chase her dreams and build a future where menstruation is no longer a barrier to success.
(The information of this article has been sourced from World Economic Forum)
Access to safe menstrual hygiene remains a major challenge, with 34 per cent of women depending on unhygienic alternatives such as old cloth, ash or hay. For many low-income families, purchasing sanitary pads is a luxury they cannot afford, forcing girls to manage their periods in unsafe conditions, increasing their risk of infections and health complications. Business Business News – Personal Finance News, Share Market News, BSE/NSE News, Stock Exchange News Today
