Hyderabad, Feb 2 (TNT): Strengthening menstrual health and preventive care among adolescent girls, Hyderabad District Collector Ms Harichandana Dasari, on Monday launched Project Shakti – Providing Next Shakti, a large-scale menstrual hygiene initiative aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing school absenteeism.
As part of the programme, the Collector distributed 7,000 reusable sanitary pad kits worth ₹35 lakh to students of Veeranari Chakali Ilamma Women’s University, Koti.
The initiative targets 60,000 girl students across 2,000 schools in Telangana, with a total project outlay of ₹2.5 crore, to be completed by March 2026.
Addressing students, the Collector emphasised that menstrual health is a critical public health issue, directly linked to education continuity, mental well-being, and long-term reproductive health.
She said lack of access to safe menstrual products often leads to infections, discomfort, stigma, and missed academic days.
Highlighting the health benefits of reusable sanitary pads, she said they are skin-friendly, chemical-free, and environmentally sustainable, reducing the risk of rashes and infections when used and maintained properly. Each kit, containing three reusable pads, can last 12 to 16 months, offering a reliable and hygienic solution for repeated menstrual cycles.
Menstrual hygiene has been recognised as part of the Right to Life under Article 21 by the Supreme Court, reinforcing the State’s responsibility to ensure dignified and safe menstrual management for women and girls, she added.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Surya Dhananjay said proper menstrual hygiene enhances self-confidence and allows young women to participate fully in education and daily activities without health-related interruptions.
Dr. S. V. Ram Prasad, District Governor, Rotary International District 3150, said Rotary’s focus on preventive healthcare continues through initiatives such as Project Shakti, which addresses an often-neglected but vital aspect of women’s health.
Govind Putta, President, Rotary Club of Hyderabad East, said the project is being implemented in association with State Bank of India and Unipads Foundation across Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, Nalgonda, Nizamabad, Warangal, and Peddapalli districts.
The programme also includes health education, orientation sessions, and awareness drives, aimed at improving menstrual health knowledge, reducing taboos, and ensuring sustained adoption of hygienic practices among adolescent girls.
TNT TS
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