The menstrual cycle may not be an issue for women in urban areas, but in rural areas, it is still considered a curse by uneducated women, says Shalini Sahu. An advocate of menstrual hygiene and a firm opponent of child marriages, Shalini received the Best Volunteer Award at a function organised on December 5 in New Delhi on International Volunteers Day by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports supported by UNDP, UNICEF and UN volunteers.

In 2016, Shalini joined a training programme sponsored by Asha Odisha and Bal Raksha Bharat that sought to improve menstrual hygiene in rural pockets and empower girls and women by raising awareness among them regarding the issue. The project taught women how to manage menstrual hygiene and use sanitary pads properly. Shalini was chosen as a discussion leader due to her will power and determination to change the prevailing practice in her village and nearby localities.

Recently, Bal Raksha Bharat conducted a rally to create awareness in this regard which was joined by 445 girls of Nuapada. Eminent social activist Tulasi Munda graced the occasion and lauded our efforts.”

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