Daughter’s first period should be celebrated within family, with all respect, said NCW chairperson Vijaya K. Rahatkar during SHEWings and ITBP HWWA conclave
New Delhi, May 28— In a pioneering effort to bring menstrual and reproductive health to the forefront for women in uniformed forces, the SHEWings Foundation conducted a comprehensive awareness seminar in partnership with the Himveer Wives’ Welfare Association (HWWA), ITBP, at the 22nd Battalion Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Tigri Camp, on Menstrual Hygiene Day, May 28, titled “Menstrual and Reproductive Health for Women in Forward Deployment.” The seminar was specifically designed for women personnel of the ITBP to empower them with knowledge, medical access, and nutritional awareness related to menstrual and reproductive health.
The seminar aimed to equip forward-deployed ITBP women personnel with accurate information, medical support, and hygienic resources to help manage menstruation and related health concerns in extreme deployment environments. The event included expert panel discussions and the distribution of menstrual hygiene kits.
Madan Mohit Bhardwaj, Founder of SHEWings. It stated, “Improving women’s health can significantly boost a country’s GDP. This initiative will not only improve health outcomes and reduce school absenteeism but will also promote the economic participation of women.
Among the distinguished guests was Dr. Vijaya K. Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, who addressed the attendees and appreciated the efforts of SHEWings and HWWA.
“When I got my first period, I was scared, and I shared this with my grandmother. Surprisingly, I thought she would scold me, but she happily said, “Aree jashan manao!” She said, “Iska to period aaya hai.” I come from a village in Maharashtra. My grandmother was not that educated, but still, she celebrated and made the environment easy for me. I would like to appeal to everyone: when your daughter has her first period, speak to her and celebrate with her, within the family, in a very graceful manner.
Gauri Rasgotra, president of HWWA, stated:
“We are glad that HWWA was able to take this meaningful initiative in collaboration with SHEWings Foundation—it is truly an honour for us. It is important to understand that menstrual health goes beyond just periods; it encompasses mental and emotional well-being as well. I am proud that HWWA has taken concrete steps in this direction,” she said.
Leading gynecologists, including Dr. Gauri Agarwal, Dr. Mamta Goel, Dr. Shyam Sundar, Dr. Prerna Sharma, Dr. Preeti, and Bina Mansukh, were awarded for their contribution to menstrual hygiene. The vote of thanks was given by Secretary HWWA, Harshika.
This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, to promote women-led development and inclusive public health. Programs like these echo the national commitment to Swasth Nari, Swasth Desh—a healthier and more empowered India for all women, including those serving in our defence forces.