Bhawanipatna: In a transformative initiative led by the Piramal Foundation, the community of Junagarh in the Kalahandi district of Odisha witnessed a significant stride in menstrual hygiene awareness. Gandhi Fellow Rajnandani, during a community immersion, engaged with locals, students, and children to comprehend their needs. The initiative revealed a prevalent issue— the lack of awareness and proper maintenance of menstrual hygiene among girls and women, alongside a dearth of awareness about the benefits of daily yoga practice among students.
Addressing these concerns, Rajnandani conducted meetings with girls in grades 6 to 8, raising awareness about the significance of maintaining hygiene during menstruation. Home visits and discussions with women played a pivotal role in educating them about menstrual hygiene. A small rally, organized with students’ assistance, further promoted awareness about the benefits of daily yoga practice.
A recent survey in the Junagarh block uncovered a staggering statistic: a significant portion of young girls and women faced challenges in maintaining proper menstrual hygiene, resorting to using cloth instead of sanitary pads, risking their health and potentially facing complications in the future.
Recognizing the urgency for awareness and education, the campaign, aptly named “Hygiene Harmony,” aimed to illuminate potential health hazards associated with improper menstrual hygiene practices. It strived to provide valuable information on the benefits of using sanitary pads.
The campaign focused on raising awareness about the importance of maintaining menstrual hygiene and the potential risks linked to using unhygienic materials. Through interactive sessions and distribution of informational pamphlets, the initiative aimed to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding menstrual health, fostering an open dialogue within the community.
The campaign addressed various aspects, including highlighting health risks, educating on correct hygiene practices, discussing the accessibility and affordability of sanitary pads, encouraging open conversations about menstruation, and exploring environmentally friendly options for menstrual hygiene products.
The “Hygiene Harmony” campaign served as a call to action, urging the community to prioritize the health and well-being of its girls and women. By breaking the silence and fostering awareness, the initiative empowered the community with knowledge, ensuring a healthier and more informed future for the women of Junagarh.
