New Delhi, Nov 23, 2024: Over 200 delegates and 50 speakers from across India came together to advocate for menstrual hygiene at a national summit organized by Gramalaya in collaboration with Dettol Banega Swasth India.
The inaugural session of the Gramalaya’s Fourth Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) India Summit 2024 ignited dialogues aimed at empowering women and adolescent girls across India. With an unwavering commitment in breaking the silence surrounding menstruation and addressing the systemic challenges it poses, the summit became a crucible of transformative ideas and actionable solutions.
Meenakshi Lekhi, Former Union Minister of State For External Affairs and Culture; Ravi Bhatnagar, Director of External Affairs and Partnerships SOA, Reckitt; and Padma Shri Awardee S Damodaran, Founder and CEO of Gramalaya, set the stage with addresses that underscored the pressing need for collective efforts in menstrual hygiene advocacy. Their words resonated with the audience, evoking a shared vision of a healthier and more equitable future.
Speaking at the event, Damodaran said, "The MHM India Summit is a beacon of hope and transformation, where we come together to challenge deeply rooted stigmas and foster a culture of acceptance and awareness around menstruation. At Gramalaya, our mission has always been to empower every woman and girl with the dignity and safety they deserve during menstruation. This summit is not just an event—it is a powerful movement of collective action and collaboration, paving the way for a future where menstruation no longer holds anyone back but instead becomes a symbol of strength, health, and equity for all."
Bhatnagar said, "Partnering with Gramalaya for the Fourth MHM India Summit is a profound step towards addressing the critical issue of menstrual hygiene in India. At Reckitt, we firmly believe that access to safe and sustainable menstrual hygiene is a fundamental right, not a privilege. Through this collaboration, we aim to support Gramalaya’s tireless efforts in fostering awareness, breaking taboos, and driving community-led change. Together, we are building scalable, impactful solutions that not only improve health and hygiene but also empower women and girls to thrive with dignity and confidence in every aspect of their lives."
The day unfolded with a vibrant panel discussion, "Setting the Context: Current Status, MHM Framework, and Policy Guidelines," featuring thought leaders such as Dr Arundati Muralidharan, Co-Founder, Menstrual Health Action for Impact (MHAi); Arun Gupta, President, Pinkishe Foundation; Vikas Bagaria, Founder & CEO, Pee Safe; Geeta Solanki, Founder, Unipads India.
The summit transitioned into six dynamic breakaway sessions, each illuminating critical aspects of menstrual hygiene. It concluded with a valedictory session and an awards ceremony, celebrating exceptional contributions to menstrual hygiene management.
 for wastewater recycling at Taj Mahal, New Delhi.JPG)
