Project GARIMA: Menstrual Health & Hygiene Programme

Menstrual health and hygiene are vital to women’s well-being, yet many girls in India still lack access to essential menstrual products and safe disposal facilities. This leads to absenteeism, dropouts, and health issues. To address this, through the installation of Menstrual Kit Vending Units and Incinerators in schools and institutions, we have significantly improved access to essential menstrual products and safe disposal methods, empowering young girls to manage their hygiene independently and with dignity.

In addition to the infrastructure setup, MVS India has conducted extensive awareness programs to educate adolescent girls, women and their communities about menstrual health and hygiene. These initiatives have played a crucial role in dispelling taboos, fostering open discussions about menstruation, and ensuring that girls feel confident in managing their health.

Goal:
To improve menstrual hygiene management (MHM) in government schools by providing access to sanitary pads and safe disposal facilities, reducing absenteeism, promoting health, and empowering girls to continue their education with dignity.

Project Need:

• School Attendance: Many girls miss school due to lack of menstrual products and disposal facilities, leading to poor academic performance.
• Access to Sanitary Products: Many schools lack resources, forcing girls to use unhygienic alternatives, causing health risks.
• Disposal Facilities: Without proper disposal options, menstrual waste is poorly managed, creating environmental and health hazards.
• Social Stigma: Misinformation and stigma about menstruation prevent girls from seeking help and accessing resources.

By installing vending machines and incinerators in schools, we aim to ensure menstrual hygiene, break the stigma, and help girls stay in school and lead healthier lives.

Impact of the Project:

Our MHM projects have led to tangible improvements in the lives of the girls and women we serve. By addressing menstrual hygiene management comprehensively, we have:

• Increased school attendance among adolescent girls by reducing absenteeism during menstruation.
• Promoted a healthier environment in schools and institutions through the safe disposal of sanitary products.
• Empowered girls & women to take charge of their health, resulting in improved self-esteem

Key Partners:

• RailTel Corporation of India Limited – Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir
• Amazon (Give India) – Border Security Force, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
• National Internet Exchange of India – Barmer, Rajasthan