Community Awareness Programme on Menstrual & Holistic Health on International Menstrual Hygiene Day in Dasapalla, Odisha

Jeevan Rekha Parishad (JRP), a grassroots NGO, in collaboration with UK-based Jeevika Trust, conducted a community awareness program for tribal adolescent girls and women on International Menstrual Hygiene Day, May 28, 2026, in Dasapalla, Odisha. More than 12 tribal villages were mobilized over two weeks leading up to the event, which was attended by 60 women and girls.

This initiative builds on findings from a baseline survey conducted by JRP field staff Madhusmita, for the SNAPs project, which revealed that many tribal women and girls in the region suffer from Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs). Supported by Jeevika Trust, the SNAPs project addresses these hygiene-related diseases by promoting affordable, high-quality, locally-produced sanitary napkins. In its first four months, the pilot programme has successfully reduced RTI cases and significantly diminished menstrual stigma; consequently, these women have become more outspoken and aware of the importance of holistic preventive health.

To intensify the discourse around menstrual and holistic health, two experts from Bhubaneswar were invited to the event. Dr. Pallavi Das, a gynecologist, delivered the keynote address, highlighting medically safe menstrual practices, early symptoms of RTI, and methods for early treatment. Dr. Das also educated participants on the health risks associated with a lack of safe and hygienic menstrual practices.

Dr. Prasmita Tejaswini, a health entrepreneur and hospital administrator, spoke on the necessity of preventive holistic health. She emphasised how adolescent girls can monitor and manage their overall wellbeing to avoid preventable diseases and reduce the financial burden on resource-strained tribal families. Both experts conducted basic health check-ups for the participants and provided individualised advice to improve their long-term health.

Madhusmita, a champion community mobilizer from Dasapalla, curated and organized various artistic activities leading up to the event, mobilizing over 100 adolescent girls across 12 tribal villages. Drawings and paintings created by these girls were exhibited during the program, with three girls receiving awards for their creativity. Their work shared a powerful, humble message regarding menstrual health management.

This event and the SNAPs pilot represent only the beginning of a monumental drive toward a future of RTI-free, fully informed tribal women who actively contribute to their livelihoods and the betterment of their families, as an equal partner to their husbands. 

Written by: Saurabh Bhoyar

Peace Fellow, The Advocacy Project