Hyderabad, Feb.2 (RAHNUMA): In a major initiative aimed at improving menstrual health and promoting dignity among young women, Rotarians, State Bank of India (SBI), and Unipads Foundation have launched “Project Shakti – Providing Next Shakti”, targeting 60,000 girl students across Telangana.
The Rs.2.5-crore project was formally inaugurated at Veeranari Chakali Ilamma Women’s University, Koti, by Harichandana Dasari, Hyderabad District Collector. As part of the launch, the Collector distributed 7,000 reusable sanitary pad kits, valued at Rs.35 lakh, to the university students. Each kit contains three reusable sanitary pads, designed to last 12 to 16 months with proper care, offering a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternative to disposable products. The initiative is scheduled for completion by March 2026.
Addressing the students, the Collector urged them to become ‘menstrual independent’, highlighting the importance of choice, control and dignity in menstrual health. She noted that menstrual dependence often leads to absenteeism, health risks, and social stigma, while independence enables education, opportunity and equality. She emphasized that reusable pads are washable, eco-friendly, gentle on the body, and reduce long-term waste. Citing a Supreme Court observation, she said menstrual hygiene forms an integral part of the Right to Life under Article 21, placing responsibility on the State to ensure dignified menstrual management.
Prof. Surya Dhananjay, Vice-Chancellor of Mahila University, said menstrual hygiene plays a crucial role in building self-confidence and enabling women to participate fully in education and public life.
Dr. S.V. Ram Prasad, District Governor, Rotary International District 3150, recalled Rotary’s contribution to global polio eradication, stating that sustained collective action can bring transformative change.
Govind Putta, President of Rotary Club of Hyderabad East, said the club has installed 360 RO water plants across institutions and added that the Project Shakti will benefit nearly 60,000 girls in over 2,000 schools. He also announced the setting up of a Rs.45-lakh science laboratory at the university.
Rotarian C.V. Subba Row said the project is being implemented by the Rotary Club of Hyderabad East (RID 3150), in association with SBI and Unipads Foundation, across Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, Nalgonda, Nizamabad, Warangal and Peddapalli districts, following the guidelines of the Ministry of Women and Child Welfare, with support from the Telangana government.
