UNICEF Jharkhand launches month-long campaign on Menstrual Hygiene Management

From taboo to triumph: Engaging youths to celebrate MHM Day with impact

Mail News Service

Ranchi, 28 May: On the occasion of World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024, celebrated globally with the theme “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” UNICEF Jharkhand launched a month-long campaign to raise awareness and promote Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) in collaboration with NSS in Ranchi. The campaign is launched under the tagline ‘Mahwari par khulkar karein sab baat, chuppi ka na le saath.’

Like every year, UNICEF is also conducting various activities in collaboration with the Government of Jharkhand, its partners, and CIP Ranchi to mark this day. The campaign began with great enthusiasm, engaging 200 young girls and boys in the #RedDotChallenge from Ranchi University and young volunteers of the National Service Scheme. They rallied from Ranchi University to Oxygen Park, Morabadi, carrying placards and banners with slogans raising awareness on menstrual hygiene management. Recognizing the importance of involving men in this cause, this year’s campaign will focus on engaging adolescent boys and men to sensitize them on the topic.

“Various activities on community mobilization and awareness generation will be conducted, along with promoting health and hygiene in the community. Additionally, the campaign will emphasize the importance of safe disposal of menstrual waste and equipping youths as active advocates of menstrual hygiene with a comprehensive plan of action,” said Dr. Brajesh Kumar, state NSS officer cum NSS program coordinator, Ranchi University, Ranchi.

Speaking about the campaign, Dr. Kaninika Mitra, Chief at UNICEF Jharkhand, emphasized, “Ensuring proper Menstrual Hygiene Management is not just about hygiene; it’s also about dignity and empowering women and girls. By engaging adolescent boys and men in our campaign, we aim to break the silence surrounding menstruation and create a supportive environment where everyone can openly discuss and address menstrual health needs.”

She further explained, “Through our campaign, we seek to empower communities with knowledge and resources to ensure that menstruation is not a barrier to the education and well-being of women and girls. By addressing menstrual hygiene comprehensively, we are taking a significant step towards achieving gender equality and promoting dignity for all.”

Kumar Premchand, WASH Specialist, Laxmi Saxena, WASH Officer, Astha Alang, Communication Specialist, and NGO partners were also present at the event. Let’s unite for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld: Breaking taboos and embracing menstrual health as a natural aspect of life.