LEH: National Health Mission (NHM), UT Ladakh under Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) observed World Menstrual Hygiene Day Wednesday at Lotsawa Auditorium Hall, Cultural Academy Leh.
The event focused on the crucial theme: “Breaking taboos and raising awareness about the importance of good menstrual management” underscoring the high-level commitment to this vital public health issue.
The occasion was graced by First Lady of Ladakh, Neelam Mishra, who served as the Chief Guest.
The event commenced with an insightful opening speech by Bhanu Prabha, IAS, Mission Director, National Health Mission, UT Ladakh. She highlighted the proactive steps being taken in the region, including the successful installation of six sanitary vending machines across Leh to ensure easy access to sanitary napkins for all females.
She also expressed her gratitude to the First Lady for her commendable initiative in introducing biodegradable sanitary napkins. She further announced plans for the ongoing process of installing similar vending machines in Kargil District, extending the reach of this essential service.
Secretary, Social & Tribal Welfare Department, Shashanka Ala (IAS) delivered a thought-provoking keynote address emphasizing the critical need to educate coming generations about menstruation from a young age.
She particularly highlighted the importance of educating young boys about this natural biological process, asserting that male understanding on this theme would directly contribute to dismantling existing taboos and eliminate the discomfort often experienced by young girls.
Gynecologist, SNM Hospital, Leh, Dr. Stanzin Dolker, conducted a highly engaging and interactive session with detailed explanation of the menstrual cycle, offering modern and accessible methods for managing menstruation, contrasting them with traditional practices.
Dr. Dolker further elaborated on various crucial topics including menstrual cycle, hygiene, toxic shock syndrome, ectopic pregnancy, and cervical cancer, empowering the audience with vital health information. A question-and-answer segment with Dr. Dolker helped to clarify many misconception among the audience.
In her address, First Lady of Ladakh, Neelam Mishra, initiated a pledge with the audience, encouraging a collective commitment to spreading awareness and dismantling the myths and negativity surrounding menstruation. She underscored the pivotal roles of parents and teachers in schools in spreading awareness and actively work towards breaking these taboos and barriers.
Students from University of Ladakh, Leh Campus presented a compelling Nukkad-Nattak (street play) on the theme.
Their performance poignantly addressed the underlying issues surrounding menstruation, stressing the imperative of breaking taboos and fostering greater awareness within the local community.
The event concluded with closing remarks delivered by Stanzin Angmo, State Consultant, NHM. The observance was attended by prominent officers including Director NHM Dr. Tashi Thinless, Director Social and Tribal Welfare Tashi Dolma, Chief Medical Officer Dr Dolma Chuskit, Medical Superintendent Dr Rinchen Chosdol along with women leaders from religious organisations and staffs and students of University of Ladakh.
