In a move to address issues of teenage pregnancy and school dropout rates among adolescent girls, the Meghalaya government has launched a special program focusing on menstrual hygiene management. Director of Social Welfare Doreen C Lyngwa disclosed that the initiative, mandated by the Chief Minister, involves the distribution of sanitary pads in collaboration with the Subham Foundation, which employs self-help groups to produce organic pads.
The government is taking steps to install sanitary pad vending machines in colleges and higher secondary schools to ensure that girls do not miss school due to menstrual challenges, according to Lyngwa. Adviser to the Social Welfare Department, Paul Lyngdoh, highlighted that regular distribution of sanitary pads will cover all schools in the state, with a particular emphasis on rural areas to combat absenteeism among students.
Lyngdoh emphasized that the distribution of pads aims to prevent disruption in girls’ education due to menstrual health issues. Additionally, he announced plans to establish four new working women’s hostels in key locations to support women’s employment and mobility. Self-defense training programs for girls in both rural and urban schools will also be implemented in collaboration with the Police Department and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs.
Efforts to combat domestic violence and ensure women’s safety were underscored by Lyngdoh, who highlighted the 24×7 women’s helpline (181) for emergencies related to violence against women. The department plans to enhance the helpline workstations, procure vehicles, and upgrade One Stop Centres (OSCs) to better assist women in need. The success stories of women benefiting from the helpline will be documented to raise awareness.
Community involvement in crime prevention was emphasized by strengthening Village Defense Parties (VDPs) to bridge the gap between communities and the police. The government has increased the honorarium for VDP volunteers to enhance their role in addressing crimes against women and other community-level issues effectively.
These initiatives mark a significant step towards promoting menstrual hygiene management and ensuring the safety and well-being of women and girls in Meghalaya. By addressing these crucial issues, the government aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women and girls across the state.
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