Jamshedpur: On the occasion of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, social organization Nishchay Foundation marked its 8th anniversary with the launch of a new public campaign titled “Period and Science”, aiming to bridge the gap between menstrual health education and scientific curiosity among children from rural and underprivileged communities. The campaign was inaugurated through a workshop organized at the Kalpana Chawla Science Club in Pandrashali village, located near the Jharkhand-Odisha border.
The event focused on empowering adolescent girls and boys with accurate knowledge about menstruation, breaking age-old taboos, and fostering a scientific mindset from a young age. Over 60 children and women from various villages of Bada Lagada Panchayat participated, reflecting growing community engagement in menstrual awareness and science education.
Speaking at the event, Pradhan Biruwa, founder of the Kalpana Chawla Science Club, emphasized the importance of quality education in remote areas. He noted that science education can open up new opportunities for rural youth and help dispel superstitions. Tarun Kumar, popularly known as Jharkhand’s Padman and the founder of Nishchay Foundation, said the “Period and Science” campaign seeks to identify and nurture scientific interests in children during workshops on menstruation, health, and environmental awareness. “With proper guidance, tribal children can pursue careers in engineering, medicine, and research, making a mark in fields where their representation is currently minimal,” he added.
Over the past eight years, Nishchay Foundation has reached nearly 1 lakh adolescent girls and women, educating them on menstrual hygiene, health, and rights through innovative campaigns like One Pad, One Tree, Period Library, and Mixed-Gender Cricket for Equality. The foundation’s persistent efforts have led to noticeable shifts in community attitudes, reducing stigma and misinformation surrounding menstruation.
Kanhu Murmu, Mukhiya of Keruwadungri Panchayat, lauded the campaign’s positive impact on his community. He stated that the initiative has not only raised awareness among women and girls but also inspired broader acceptance and understanding of menstrual health in the region.
The workshop also featured the presence of Tribal Padman Baidyanath Hansda, along with active community members like Mithila Biruwa, Sumitra Biruwa, Ranjita Bari, and Shubham Dorai. As a gesture of support, participants received Project Bala reusable sanitary pads and educational books.
