Nearly 7,000 Students in Hyderabad Receive Reusable Pads

On March 12, 2024, nearly 7,000 students at Veeranari Chakali Ilamma Women’s University in Hyderabad received kits containing reusable sanitary pads as part of Project Shakti. This initiative aims to enhance menstrual hygiene and reduce absenteeism among female students across the region. The distribution effort, valued at approximately ₹35 lakh, marks the initial phase of a broader program that intends to reach 60,000 girl students across 2,000 schools and colleges in Telangana by March 2026.

Empowering Students Through Menstrual Hygiene

Reusable sanitary pads, which can last between 12 and 16 months with proper care, are promoted as an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to disposable products. Organisers of the program emphasize that this initiative will alleviate the financial burden on families, reduce plastic waste, and ensure that students do not miss classes due to a lack of menstrual products.

Hyderabad district collector Harichandana Dasari addressed students during the distribution, urging them to “be menstrual independent.” She highlighted the importance of dignity, choice, and bodily autonomy, stating, “Menstrual dependence can result in missed education, loss of opportunities, health risks, and stigma. Independence signifies equality.” Dasari also underscored the benefits of using reusable pads, describing them as cost-effective, washable, gentle on the body, and environmentally sustainable.

The collector reminded attendees that the Supreme Court of India has recognized menstrual hygiene as essential to the Right to Life under Article 21, placing a responsibility on the state to ensure dignified menstrual management for all women.

Support from Local Organizations

Surya Dhananjay, the university’s vice chancellor, expressed that access to proper menstrual products empowers students. He stated that it provides them “confidence and freedom to participate fully in education and daily life without anxiety or restriction.”

Project Shakti is being implemented by the Rotary Club of Hyderabad East in collaboration with the State Bank of India and the Unipads Foundation, with additional support from the Telangana government. In conjunction with the distribution of the pads, students will also receive orientations on menstrual hygiene and product care to ensure sustained use.

This initiative represents a significant step toward improving menstrual hygiene management in Telangana, fostering an environment where young women can pursue their education without the barriers posed by menstrual health issues.