Breaking the Silence: Odisha's Push for Menstrual Health Education

Advocating for Menstrual Health Awareness

Bhubaneswar: On Wednesday, Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida emphasized the necessity of educating men to dismantle the stigma surrounding menstrual health.

During the launch of the 'Menstrual Health & Hygiene 2025' conclave at IIT Bhubaneswar, Parida remarked, "Menstruation is a natural biological occurrence that has been cloaked in taboo for far too long, causing countless women to endure in silence. It's crucial that we shatter this silence, and events like this conclave are vital for fostering change."

She pointed out the importance of a cultural shift, stating, "When sanitary napkins become a regular item on a family's grocery list or a brother's thoughtful gift to his sister, we will see genuine advancement in women's empowerment. Educating men about menstrual health is essential to eliminate the stigma."

Parida also highlighted the critical need for accessible menstrual solutions in workplaces and educational settings.

She further underscored the significance of sustainable practices in the use and disposal of menstrual products.

"Women and girls should be empowered and informed to assert their rights to menstrual health and hygiene," the Deputy Chief Minister added.

The event also saw the launch of Project CARE (Campus Action for Reusable Essentials), aimed at encouraging the use of reusable menstrual products among school and college girls, along with the distribution of eco-friendly reusable menstrual pads to women from marginalized communities.

Additionally, Parida introduced two sanitary napkin vending machines on the IIT campus.

"Through our Research and Entrepreneurship Park and the 100 Cube Startup initiative, we are fostering innovative and scalable solutions—from biodegradable sanitary products to AI-driven health tools—that meet real societal needs," stated IIT Bhubaneswar Director Shreepad Karmalkar.

Karmalkar emphasized that menstrual health is not solely a women's issue but a societal necessity, noting that IIT Bhubaneswar has implemented a work-from-home policy for PhD scholars for two days during their menstrual cycles.

Willian Hanlon Jr, UNICEF Odisha's field office chief, highlighted the importance of collaboration in breaking stigma and ensuring access to menstrual hygiene products and education.

"Menstruation is not a curse; it is a natural process that should be managed with safety, dignity, and pride," Hanlon asserted.

"As we observe Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, let us commit to ensuring that no girl in Odisha—or anywhere else—misses school, loses confidence, or suffers in silence due to menstruation. We must strive for a future where periods are handled with pride, not shame," he concluded.