IIT Bhubaneswar: A landmark event on menstrual health and dignity unfolded today at IIT Bhubaneswar, where policymakers, public health experts, development partners, and social innovators came together for the Conclave on Menstrual Health & Hygiene 2025, supported by Nexus Select Trust. Held in observance of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, the conclave emphasized innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable solutions to menstrual challenges in India.
The event was organized under the “Project Period: Sanitation, Health & Hygiene, and Environment (SHE)” initiative by IIT Bhubaneswar Research & Entrepreneurship Park, in collaboration with UNICEF, Saukhyam Foundation, Action Lab 2050 Foundation, and the Odisha Menstrual Health and Hygiene Alliance.
The day-long event, held at the Institute Auditorium, was inaugurated by Smt. Pravati Parida, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha. Project CARE (Campus Action for Reusable Essentials), an initiative to promote the use of reusable menstrual products among school and college-going girls, was launched on the occasion with the distribution of eco-friendly reusable menstrual pads to women from underserved communities. Smt. Parida also unveiled two Sanitary Napkin Vending Machines donated by Canara Bank, symbolizing a step forward in menstrual accessibility on campuses and public institutions.
“Menstruation—a natural biological process—has long been shrouded in taboo, forcing generations of women to suffer in silence. It’s time we break this silence, and initiatives like this conclave are key to driving change,” said Smt. Parida. She commended IIT Bhubaneswar and its Research & Entrepreneurship division, along with other partners, for organizing the event. Highlighting the need for cultural transformation, she added, “The day sanitary napkins become part of a family’s monthly grocery list or a brother’s gift to his sister, we will witness real progress in women’s empowerment. Men must also be educated on menstrual health to help break the stigma. Access to safe menstrual solutions in workplaces and educational institutions is essential.” She further stressed the importance of sustainable use and disposal of menstrual products. “Women and girls must be informed and empowered to claim their right to menstrual health and hygiene,” she added.
“The Menstrual Health & Hygiene Conclave highlights a critical yet often overlooked issue that intersects with education, equity, and public health,” said Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar. “Through our Research and Entrepreneurship Park and the 100 Cube Startup initiative, we are advancing innovative, scalable solutions—from biodegradable sanitary products to AI-powered health tools—that address real societal needs. Menstrual health is not just a women’s issue—it’s a societal imperative.” He also highlighted that at IIT Bhubaneswar, the provision work from home for two days during periods has been made for the PhD Scholars, working under a supervisor.
Dr. Seema Bahinipati, Independent Director, IIT Bhubaneswar Research and Entrepreneurship Park welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the institution’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusive health and research innovation.
Speaking about the Project CARE, which is a part of Nexus Select Trust’s larger campaign, Happyness for HER, Ms. Harsha Bharda, Deputy General Manager-ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance), Nexus Select Trust said: “Our shopping centres are not just places to buy things—they are places to care, connect and uplift. Through Project CARE, we want every girl to feel seen, safe, and supported. This partnership is a step towards giving voice to many who remain unheard.”
Mr. Willian Hanlon Jr, Chief of Field Office UNICEF Odisha, stressed the importance of partnerships in breaking stigma and enabling access to menstrual hygiene products and education. He said, “Menstruation is not a curse. It is a completely natural process. It is life-affirming, and it deserves to be managed with safety, dignity, and pride. As we commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, let us pledge that no girl in Odisha—or anywhere—misses school, loses confidence, or suffers in silence because of menstruation. Let us create a future where periods are managed with pride—not shame.”
Among others, Shri Bamadev Acharya, Registrar, IIT Bhubaneswar; Mr. Nilesh Singh, General Manager (ESG), Nexus Select Mall; Prof. Praveen Bist from Saukhyam Foundation; Ms. Karina Malczewska, Ms Pratibha Singh, Ms. Shipra Saxena and Ms. Astha Alang from UNICEF also graced the programme. Mr. Srustijeet Mishra, Founder, ActionLab 2050 proposed a vote of thanks in the inaugural session.
Panel discussions and research paper presentations in two engaging sessions explored government-led initiatives and innovative solutions for sustainable menstrual health. Experts from WaterAid India, UNICEF, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, and social enterprises such as Padcare Labs and Cresa Pads contributed to vibrant, solutions-oriented dialogue.
The conclave also marked the launch of Project “Asmita” by WE4YOU Charitable Trust. It also featured the announcement of Hackathon themes under Project “PERIOD”, by Dr. Soobhankar Pati, CEO of IIT Bhubaneswar’s Research and Entrepreneurship Park and Mr. Surya Kumar Pattanayak, Director, STPI, Bhubaneswar. These initiatives aim to empower youth-led problem-solving in menstrual health technology and community innovation.
Dr. Soobhankar Pati closed the day with the vote of thanks and a call for continued collaboration across sectors.
