Mass awareness prog on menstrual hygiene management kicks off in Noney
Source: The Sangai Express
Noney, May 10 2018:
The mass awareness programme on menstrual hygiene management, initiated by 'Breaking the Silence' with assistance from community and Church leaders, to be held at three hill districts of the State kicked off at Noney district today.
Inspite of the incessant rainfall across the State and unpleasant weather, the awareness programme was conducted successfully at Tengkongjang High Secondary School at Longmai, Noney district with attendance of more than 220 adolescent girls and teachers from different schools in Noney.
Robert Longjam, SDO Noney while addressing the people gathered at the programme as chief guest stated that menstrual hygiene management is an important aspect of health not just for girls and women but in the entire community.
The Government through Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) has the directives to focus on menstrual hygiene management while funds for IEC have also been made available for raising awareness on the matter.
Adai Dangmei, Chairman, Customary Court (PEI), Longmai while presiding the programme underlined the need of involving men in awareness sessions on menstruation as each gender knowing the challenges of the other and extending help can bring a balanced society.
Meanwhile, guest of honour Jesse Thaimei, Pastor, Town Baptist Church, Khumji lauded Urmila Chanam, social activist for coming all the way from Bangalore to Noney and launching such initiative in collaboration with Agui Kamei from Noney and stated that such action is an example of Christian value of love.
The participants were sensitized about the stigma behind menstruation and how facilities and support are compromised in this culture of silence.
Hygiene practices during menstruation and safe disposal were taught using a wide range of sanitary materials including bio-degradable and eco friendly sanitary pads, tampons and menstrual cups.
Pamphlets on menstrual hygiene practices and sanitary pads were also distributed for free to symbolise hygiene and health.
Many students clarified their doubts from Urmila during the interaction session where some of the main questions were if it is correct for girls to not take bath or wash their hair during the their menstrual cycle, as told to them by their mothers and elders.
The program was appreciated by the district administration, Church, community, teachers and students.
Urmila Chanam, Silvia Rimai, Agui Kamei, Ajuanah Kamei, D Pouhoi, Thanriangliu Gangmei, Philip Kamei, Ringbamliu Riamei formed the Breaking the Silence team.