RED REBELS the menstrual health and taboo

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1. TEAM NAME : RED REBELS TOPIC : MENSTRUAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE

2. THE PROBLEM STATEMENT The persistent enforcement of shame and embarrassment surrounding menstruation has led to a society that remains largely silent on this crucial issue. This silence perpetuates harmful stigmas and contributes to the deprivation of proper menstrual health education and resources. Consequently, many individuals who menstruate, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, engage in unhygienic practices, leading to serious health consequences. Furthermore, the needs of differently-abled individuals, transgender men, and those from other marginalized groups remain inadequately addressed. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to ensure menstrual health and hygiene for all.

3. THE CAUSE AND EFFECTS Cause Reasons for societal taboo and lack of menstrual hygiene Prevalence of Hegemonic Patriarchy in Indian society perpetuates the restrictions, which are often reflected In religious texts like Manu Smriti. High rate of illiteracy especially in girls, poverty and lack of awareness about menstrual health and hygiene. Menstruation is associated with impurity in Brahmanical Hinduism due to its position within codified systems governing bodily secretions and caste distinction, as well as its association with sin and guilt . The origin of this myth dates back to the vedic times and is often being linked to Inara’s slaying of vitras. Period poverty is also tied to gender inequality , leading to menstrual hygiene being a neglected topic of discussion. most men lack a basic understanding of menstruation and its psychological aspects.

4. Effects The cultural silence surrounding periods has created a society where people who menstruate must face another system of oppression because of how their own body works. Dismissive legislation and gender stereotyping continue the cycle of weaponizing this normal process to prevent certain groups from advancing in society. Moreover it robs marginalised people of their power and confidence . Lack of awareness around menstrual health has both social and economic repercussions.

5. SOLUTION National Menstrual Health and Hygiene Scheme (NMHHS), 2024 Objective: The National Menstrual Health and Hygiene Scheme (NMHHS) aims to promote menstrual health, hygiene education and inclusivity through comprehensive initiatives across educational institutions, workplaces and communities in India. A. Educational Reforms Curriculum Integration: Menstrual health and hygiene will be integrated into the national curriculum for primary and secondary schools. NCERT will develop standardized educational materials, including textbooks, guides, and digital content in consultation with health professionals. Workshops & Camps: Schools will organize workshops, seminars and camps to normalize conversations around menstrual health and hygiene. Schools will also establish health clubs dedicated to raising awareness about menstrual health among students. Annual Pledge: An annual pledge will be introduced in schools where students and staff commit to upholding and promoting menstrual health and hygiene.

6. B. Community Initiatives Help Group formation: Community-based help groups will be formed in every district to provide peer support on menstrual health and hygiene. These groups will be trained by certified professional,and will include beneficiaries who will train others ensuring the sustainability of the initiate. Awareness campaigns: Nationwide campaigns will be conducted to raise awareness about menstrual health including through social media, radio and community events . C. Work place Policies Period leave: Public and private sector organizations will implement a mandatory paid period leave policy, allowing menstruating employees to take time off when needed. Sanitation facilities: All workplaces will be required to provide adequate sanitation facilities including clean toilets, running water, and disposal mechanisms for menstrual products.

7. D. Monitoring and Evaluation Menstrual Health and Hygiene committee: A district-level menstrual Health and Hygiene committee will be established to monitor the implementation of scheme. The committee will also handle complaints related to menstrual health and hygiene ensuring accountability and responsiveness. National menstrual Health and Hygiene council: A national council will oversee the implementation of the NMHHS, ensuring that it meets its objectives and reaches all target populations. The council will be responsible for collecting data, conducting evaluations, and providing annual reports to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. E. Funding and Resources The central and state Governments will allocate necessary funds to implement NMHHS effectively. The scheme will seek partnerships with NGOs, international organizations and private entities for additional resources,expertise and support.

8. F. Inclusivity and Representation Support for marginalised groups: The NMHHS will ensure that menstrual health programs are inclusive for women in captivity, transgender persons and gender non-conforming individuals. Tailored interventions will be developed to address the unique needs of these groups. Community representation: Local representatives from diverse backgrounds will be included in the decision-making and implementation processes to ensure that the scheme address the needs of all communities.

9. IMPLEMENTATION Phased Rollout The NMHHS will be implemented in phases, Starting with pilot projects in selecting districts, followed by a nationwide rollout. Capacity Building Training programs will be conducted for teachers, health workers, and community leaders to build their capacity in menstrual health education and support. Public-Private Collaboration The scheme will encourage collaboration between the public and private sectors to enhance reach and effectiveness.

10. CONCLUSION The National menstrual Health and Hygiene Scheme (NMHHS) is a comprehensive approach to addressing menstrual health and hygiene in India. By integrating education, workplace, policies community support, eradicating cultural stigmatization, the scheme aims to create a supportive environment that empowers individuals to manage their menstrual health with dignity & respect.India will not achieve the Sustainable Development Goals especially SDG-3 ( Good health and wellbeing), SDG-4 (Quality Education), SDG-5 (Gender Equality) and SDG-6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) - unless it ensures menstrual health and hygiene for all the individuals who menstruate.

11. THANK YOU