Page 40 - APPL Annual Report 2019

mEnStRuAL HyGiEnE

EDuCAtiOn PROGRAmmE

the biological phenomenon of menstruation in women aPPl Foundation in collaboration with vJs
is a taboo topic which the community and even the Foundation has initiated a programme to address the
women who undergo the cycles refuse to discuss. concern. 50 community women across the tea estates
myth and superstition disguised as age old customs of damdim, nowera nuddy, rungamutte and Batabari
compel women to follow unhygienic and discriminatory in dooars have been trained as community leaders to
practices which adversely affect their health. the idea of educate women and adolescents in the community
women empowerment in not restricted to enhancing at large about menstrual hygiene. so far community
the access of women to academics and livelihood but level programmes and focused group discussion have
educating them of their right to live a productive and been conducted to encourage women to adopt good
dignified life. one such way of empowering women in practices. the problems of procuring sanitary napkins
educating them about menstrual hygiene and enabling often pose a hindrance for women in using them Community leaders holding discussion with women tea garden workers
them to adopt good practices, primarily use of sanitary which is being addressed by at the challans to generate awareness on menstrual hygiene
napkin during menstruation. reaching quality napkins
at their door step as
per their need.

Facilitator engaging with young girls to
discuss about menstrual hygiene

50

DuRGA tAmAnG Women traIned as

Community leader, Rungamuttee Tea Estate communItY leaders

After receiving a training to sensitize women about 1960
menstrual hygiene, I am now leading the awareness
drive in my community. I am deeply satisfied as I am
acting as an agent of change. Though superstitious Women educated and
believes are common but gradually women are now sensItIzed on menstrual
adopting use of sanitary napkins. HYgIene good PractIces

40 Progress and ImPact rePort 2018-19 Progress and ImPact rePort 2018-19 41