Even in 21st century, menstrual health and hygiene remain pressing challenges in India, particularly in low-income and underserved areas. A report by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) indicates that only 57 per cent of women aged 15-24 use hygienic menstrual products, with the remaining 43 per cent relying on unsafe, makeshift alternatives.
Additionally, UNICEF estimates that a lack of adequate menstrual hygiene and sanitation infrastructure contributes to higher dropout rates among adolescent girls, with nearly 20 per cent leaving school once they reach puberty.
Project SHAKTISHALINI by the SAMVAW Foundation is dedicated to addressing these challenges by improving access to sanitary resources and essential health education.
Through awareness programmes on menstrual health and safe sanitation, SHAKTISHALINI provides women and girls with the resources and knowledge they need to manage their menstrual health safely, reducing the incidence of preventable illnesses caused by poor hygiene practices.
SHAKTISHALINI’s focus on menstrual health education also works to dispel taboos, fostering open dialogue and understanding within communities. By promoting hygiene and empowering women, this project paves the way for a cleaner, healthier environment and encourages women and girls to lead dignified, confident lives.
By improving sanitation infrastructure and offering health education, SHAKTISHALINI reduces preventable illnesses and fosters a cleaner, healthier living environment for underserved communities.
Join us in supporting Project SHAKTISHALINI to create a future where every woman has access to safe menstrual care and sanitation.