By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 7 May: Humans for Humanity conducted a menstrual hygiene workshop at ITBP Dehradun for the wives of the ITBP personnel. It distributed menstrual cups and hygiene products in collaboration with L’OCCITANE, a renowned brand from France.
Led by Dr Mansi Kukreti from Arogyadham Hospital, the workshop aimed to educate women about menstrual health practices, emphasising the importance of nutrition, proper usage and cleanliness of menstrual cups, and safe disposal of sanitary products.
Anurag Chauhan, the founder of Humans for Humanity, expressed his mission to eradicate poor menstrual hygiene practices in India, ensuring no woman succumbs to a lack of awareness or access to sanitary products. He emphasised that the WASH Project isn’t merely a pilot initiative but a nationwide movement fuelled by hundreds of volunteers.
The WASH Project, initiated in 2014, seeks to empower women through knowledge, addressing the prevalent lack of awareness surrounding menstruation in the country. Despite India’s claims of development and progress, myths and taboos persist, such as the belief that menstruating women should be barred from entering the kitchen.
The WASH Project targets rural areas across six states, including Uttarakhand, Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana. Additionally, the initiative has extended its efforts to include trans men, recognising the diverse needs within the community.
At the heart of the initiative are women-centric workshops led by experienced medical professionals, providing insights into the biological aspects of menstruation, hormonal changes, and stages from adolescence to menopause. Counselling services are offered to women navigating menopause, while nutritionists educate on the significance of a healthy diet.
Recognising the affordability and quality concerns surrounding sanitary napkins, the organisation equips women with the skills to create their own high-quality alternatives at home. Moreover, awareness campaigns stress the adverse effects of poor menstrual hygiene and promote proper disposal practices.
Also present on the occasion were author and activist Venu Dhingra, state coordinator Lubna Khanam, researchers from renowned institutions like Princeton University and Frances Walker, and international participants like Sylwia Renata from Australia. Additionally, Mentor, HWWA, Northern FTR, ITBP, Mandira Gunjiyal, and Chairperson, HWWA, SHQ(DDN) Meenakshi Manu Maharaj graced the occasion with their presence.
