Lucknow: Navayug Kanya Mahavidyalaya hosted a special awareness program titled “Periods: Talk Without Hesitation” under the Red Dot Talks – Voices of Change series. The initiative was jointly organized by the Women Shine Chamber of Entrepreneurship, the college’s Hygiene and Sanitation Cell, and all four units of the National Service Scheme (NSS).
The event began with the inauguration of a sanitary napkin vending machine, donated to the college by Women Shine Chamber of Entrepreneurship. The formal proceedings in the college auditorium started with lamp-lighting and a Saraswati Vandana by student Nishtha Srivastava.
The program’s chief guest was Babita Singh Chauhan, Chairperson, Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission. Special guests included Archana Agrawal (Advisor, WSCE), Aparna Mishra (Founder, WSCE), and Ritu Shahi (Member, State Women’s Commission).
Addressing the students, Chauhan said that young women are the backbone of the future and must prioritize their health. “When a woman is healthy, her family and society remain healthy. Awareness of rights and responsibilities is key to women’s empowerment,” she added.
Health expert Dr. Sumegha from Max Hospital delivered a detailed talk on menstruation, menstrual hygiene, and cervical cancer. She stressed changing sanitary pads every six hours, washing hands properly, and managing waste safely. She also spoke about conditions like PMDD, painful or irregular cycles, and advised timely medical consultation. “Myths and taboos around menstruation harm women’s health; open dialogue at home, school, and in society is essential,” she emphasized.
Student council members—Swarnima Saini, Jigyasa Tiwari, Khushi Nishad, Sana Qureshi, Neelakshi Sharma, Shubhangi Singh, Aakriti Srivastava, and Vyakya Singh—presented a short skit under the guidance of Chief Proctor Major (Dr.) Manmeet Kaur Sodhi, busting myths surrounding periods.
Principal Prof. Manjula Upadhyay, who presided over the program, lauded the initiative. In her vote of thanks, she said such events not only enhance knowledge but also instill confidence in young women. She encouraged students to remain alert about their health and to consult doctors without hesitation. Prof. Upadhyay also appreciated the Women Shine Chamber of Entrepreneurship for their contribution of the vending machine.
The program was conducted by Shatakshi Trivedi and Mahima Singh, both fifth-semester students. It witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, and NSS volunteers. The event concluded on a note of empowerment, leaving participants inspired to challenge stigma and embrace open conversations about menstrual health.
