MSCW Spreads Menstrual Hygiene Awareness to Girls

Imphal, May 28, 2026 (DIPR):  Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) today observed International Menstrual Hygiene Day under the theme “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld” at ST Girls’ Hostel, Adimjati Shiksha Ashram, Imphal.

Chairperson, MSCW, Th. Tiningpham Monsang, Member, MSCW, S.K. Sophia and Member Secretary, MSCW and Additional Director, DIPR, Manipur, Smt. W. Phajatombi Devi graced the function as Presidium Members.

Speaking at the function, Chairperson Th. Tiningpham Monsang stated that apart from dealing with women-related cases, the Commission also conducts awareness programmes, seminars and outreach activities in various places to educate women. She mentioned that the Commission mainly deals with matters concerning women above eighteen years of age, while issues related to children below eighteen years fall under the jurisdiction of the Child Commission.

She said that the ST Girls’ Hostel accommodates tribal girls from different districts of Manipur and, considering the present situation in the State, many students from hill districts are presently residing there. Therefore, organising such a programme at the hostel was considered important so that the girls could carry the awareness message back to their respective communities and districts.

The Chairperson further stated that a similar programme was organised last year and despite the programme being arranged within a limited time this year, the Commission ensured its successful conduct. Stressing the importance of awareness among young girls, she stated that adolescence and youth are often accompanied by confusion and emotional disturbances, making proper awareness and understanding highly essential.

Referring to the importance of menstrual hygiene, she stated that improper menstrual hygiene management may lead to various health-related problems. She further said that menstruation should never be treated as a matter of shame or stigma for either girls or boys. Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed worldwide to dismantle taboos, stigma and systemic barriers surrounding menstruation. Proper menstrual hygiene management, she added, is directly linked to women’s health, dignity and safety.

Highlighting the significance of May 28, she explained that the number 28 symbolises the average 28-day menstrual cycle while the number 5 represents the average five days of menstruation, which is why May 28 is observed globally as Menstrual Hygiene Day.

She urged the students to understand the real meaning and importance behind the observance and to apply the knowledge meaningfully in their lives. More than ninety girls attended the programme and she encouraged them to become messengers of awareness in their families, communities and districts.

Th. Tiningpham Monsang further assured that the Manipur State Commission for Women will continue organising such awareness programmes for the welfare and empowerment of women and girls in the State.

Delivering the welcome address, Smt. W. Phajatombi Devi urged the students to listen carefully and understand the importance of menstrual hygiene and health care. She advised the girls not to hesitate to seek medical advice whenever they experience discomfort or health-related problems.

She further stated that the programme was organised to remove fear, shame and misunderstanding surrounding menstruation and stressed the need to openly discuss menstrual hygiene and practise proper self-care.

In the second technical session, Dr. Kabita Athokpam, MS Obstetrics and Gynecology, Senior Resident, RIMS Hospital, delivered a presentation on “Menstrual Health and Hygiene” highlighting the importance of proper menstrual hygiene management, reproductive health awareness and preventive health care practices among adolescent girls.

A.S. Wungzip Zimik, Sports Nutritionist, OGQ, also delivered an awareness talk on “Health and Wellness” focusing on nutrition, healthy lifestyle practices, physical well-being and mental health awareness among young girls.

Resource persons of the programme spoke on menstrual hygiene management, menstrual cycle awareness and health care practices. Refreshments were also provided to all the participants.

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