Sustainable Solutions: GPF India Supports Women through Period Awareness Drive

Anjali
June 20, 2024
A woman in a red outfit explains a concept using a paper illustration to a group of seated people outdoors, with children and other adults present in the background, as part of GPF India's Period Awareness Drive.

GPF India providing education on women’s health to women in Karawal Nagar.

Global Peace Foundation (GPF) India launched the second phase of its Period Awareness Drive (P.A.D.) in May 2024, recognizing Menstrual Awareness Month. The innovative project aims to empower women in the impoverished area of Karawal Nagar with knowledge about sustainable menstruation, breaking the barriers of taboo and ensuring a better understanding of menstrual health.

Helping women navigate this natural part of life and improving their health and hygiene is essential to building a society in which all members are treated with dignity and respect and are, therefore, more capable of contributing to peaceful communities.

GPF India’s dedicated staff and volunteers conducted a detailed survey that revealed that many participants hesitated to engage in discussions about the uncomfortable topic. Many of the women surveyed struggled to recall their current age, reflecting the broader issues of education and awareness in the community.

Indian women who attended the survey meeting were predominantly homemakers and ragpickers, people who make their living recycling waste. They revealed that 18 out of 20 women were using cloth rags during menstruation. This statistic underscores the pressing need for initiatives like P.A.D., which is bringing sustainable solutions to areas where access to sanitary products is limited.

A person seated on the ground showing a menstrual cup, surrounded by boxes and another person standing beside them, during a GPF India period awareness drive promoting sustainable solutions.

Volunteer shows women menstrual cup and other products for women’s health.

Following the survey, a comprehensive presentation was given, highlighting the significance of menstrual health and its impact on personal well-being. The session aimed to educate the participants on sustainable menstrual practices, promoting the use of products that are not only better for their health but also for the environment.

A woman in traditional attire is discussing the Period Awareness Drive with a seated woman and children outdoors. She is holding a paper and pen, seemingly taking notes, amidst a group of people, including children, in the background. This initiative is supported by GPF India to promote sustainable solutions.

GPF India conducting survey of women’s health in Karawal Nagar.

GPF India provided these women with sustainable menstrual products, including biodegradable pads, cloth pads, and menstrual cups. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with most participants opting for the cloth pad, which aligns with their daily needs and lifestyle.

While brief, the session marked a significant step forward for women in Karawal Nagar. It was an enlightening opportunity for other women leaders to engage with women in challenging situations. They were able to address their concerns and provide practical solutions to improve their menstrual health. The distribution of sustainable products was a

pivotal aspect of the drive, as it offered the women an opportunity to experience these alternatives firsthand.

GPF India plans to continue the Period Awareness Drive in a third phase to assess how many women have used the provided products and which they found most suitable. The feedback will be instrumental in shaping future strategies and helping empower more women. Given that many women in this area are ragpickers with limited resources, a steady supply of affordable, sustainable menstrual products could significantly enhance their quality of life.

Join us in our journey towards menstrual health awareness and help us empower more women with the knowledge and resources they need for a healthier, more dignified life. Together, we can shatter taboos and build a future where every woman has access to safe and sustainable menstrual products.

Donate to Global Peace Foundation.

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