The Better India has highlighted the inspiring journey of Arun Gupta and his daughter Khyati, who founded the Pinkishe Foundation to address menstrual hygiene disparities in India. The story began when Khyati, at the age of 16, witnessed a young girl struggling with unhygienic menstrual practices due to financial constraints

In a significant initiative aimed at empowering young girls with crucial knowledge about puberty and menstrual health, the Pinkishe Foundation is stepping forward to support girls in Meerut's government schools. Positioned as a trusted companion, Pinkishe will provide valuable information and guidance to girls, fostering understanding and confidence during this important developmental stage. Led by the Pinkishe Foundation, a prominent women's organization in the city, a specialized awareness campaign is set to unfold within government school premises. The campaign's primary objective is to enhance girls' understanding of menstrual hygiene and safety, addressing important topics that are often overlooked or misunderstood. Beyond menstrual health, the campaign will cover broader aspects of well-being, educating girls about practices that promote overall good health. By equipping them with knowledge and awareness, this initiative aims to empower girls to navigate puberty with confidence and competence. Through this initiative, the Pinkishe Foundation demonstrates a commitment to supporting girls' health and well-being, serving as a valuable resource and advocate within the educational setting. This approach not only educates but also encourages a supportive environment where girls can embrace this natural phase of life with greater awareness and self-assurance.

In partnership with Pink Sikkim branch, an impactful menstrual health and hygiene awareness session was conducted in the Rangpo IBMSLUM area of Pakyong district. The session, aimed at empowering women with essential knowledge, reached out to 38 participants, educating them on proper menstrual hygiene practices and the use of menstrual products. Led by Mrs. Jhuma Sunuwar, Assistant Professor at SMIT and dedicated NSS volunteer, the program successfully addressed critical aspects of menstrual health, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and safe menstrual practices. The session provided a supportive platform for open discussions and information-sharing, breaking taboos and promoting women's health awareness. As part of the initiative, free menstrual pads were distributed to the participating women, ensuring access to necessary hygiene products. This practical support underlines the commitment of Pink Sikkim and collaborating partners to empower women with resources for managing menstruation confidently and hygienically.

Samvad facebook page covered the initiative led by SMIT NSS members in collaboration with Pinkishe Foundation aimed to address the crucial issue of menstrual hygiene awareness and accessibility to sanitary pads. By organizing a free pad distribution program in Rangpo, East Sikkim, they not only provided essential menstrual hygiene products but also conducted awareness sessions to educate individuals about the importance of proper menstrual hygiene practices. This initiative likely involved meticulous planning and coordination to ensure the effective distribution of pads to those in need. By partnering with local authorities and organizations, they could reach a wider audience and maximize the impact of their efforts. Furthermore, the support from Sikkim indicates a collective effort towards promoting menstrual hygiene and breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation. By working together, they strive to create a more supportive and inclusive environment where individuals can manage their menstrual health with dignity and access to necessary resources. Overall, this initiative reflects a commendable commitment to addressing a fundamental aspect of public health and gender equality, demonstrating the power of community-driven initiatives to bring about positive change.

In a collaborative effort aimed at community health outreach, the NSS units of Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology (SMIT), PINKISHE Foundation, NSS SMIMS, and SMCON organized a comprehensive medical camp at IBM Rangpo. Led by Dr. Binod Kumar Tamang from the Department of Anatomy, along with four doctors from Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) and Dr. Bishal Gurung from Namchi Hospital, the camp offered health check-ups and medical advice to attendees. The event not only focused on medical services but also incorporated cultural enrichment with performances by talented SMIT students. Attendees, especially children, benefited from free medications provided during the camp. NSS volunteers from SMIT and nursing students contributed their efforts to support the medical professionals in facilitating the camp's operations. As a token of appreciation, plant saplings were presented to the participating doctors, symbolizing gratitude and environmental stewardship. This collaborative initiative exemplifies the commitment of these organizations towards community welfare and healthcare accessibility, fostering a holistic approach to community service and well-being. The medical camp served as a valuable platform for healthcare professionals and volunteers to positively impact the lives of individuals in the Rangpo community

In primary schools of the region, Pinkishe's Foundation conducted an awareness campaign regarding the problems faced by students during menstruation and ways to prevent them. They urged adolescents to be vigilant against these issues. On Monday, Pinkishe's Foundation launched an awareness campaign in primary schools of the region regarding the problems caused by menstruation. The team from Musk Leaf raised awareness about menstruation through street plays. They mentioned that menstruation is a process that occurs only in women worldwide, making them unique. This process continues from the age of eight to fifty-five in women. It is essential for women to maintain hygiene during this process. During this time, use clean clothes or sanitary pads. Use pain relievers as advised by a doctor. Consult a doctor in case of any infection. Get plenty of rest. Avoid lifting heavy objects. They emphasized that it is essential to pay attention to safety measures to prevent infection during menstruation. On this occasion, Principal Neha, Founder Arun Gupta, Founder Shalini Gupta, Shubham Jha, Sujit Kumar, Vipul Kalra, and others were present.‍

In an effort to promote menstrual hygiene awareness among adolescent girls, a collaborative workshop was conducted at Government Girls' Higher Secondary School, Rajpura in Haldwani. The workshop, jointly organized by Chetna Seva Samiti and Pinkishe Foundation, aimed to educate girls on maintaining cleanliness during menstruation. Led by representatives from both organizations, including Pushpa Kandpal, Upasana, and Sangita Shekhar, the workshop addressed essential topics such as menstrual hygiene practices, proper use and disposal of sanitary pads, and overall reproductive health. Through interactive sessions, the girls were sensitized to menstrual health issues, helping them navigate this natural process with confidence and dignity. Furthermore, as part of the initiative, all participating girls were provided with sanitary pads to encourage hygienic menstrual practices. This distribution not only ensures access to essential menstrual hygiene products but also emphasizes the importance of adopting safe and sustainable menstrual health practices.

The CSR Journal covered a story on the 'Udaan' project, a collaboration between the Flipkart Foundation, Give Foundation, and Pinkishe Foundation. This initiative aims to promote menstrual health awareness and hygiene among marginalized communities, particularly in rural areas. 'Project Udaan' seeks to empower girls aged 10 to 18 by providing essential knowledge and eco-friendly period products, fostering better reproductive health practices. Workshops will be conducted across multiple states including Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh, benefiting 1,600 girls directly and an additional 3,200 girls and women indirectly. The project focuses on breaking menstrual taboos, promoting menstrual health practices, and nurturing confidence among young girls. It includes educational workshops covering hygiene, product options, disposal, health, and nutrition, among other topics. Each participant will receive a period kit containing reusable cloth pads and essentials for sustainable menstrual health management. To read the full article, visit: Click Here

In a significant initiative organized by Pinkishe Foundation, a team visited Pre Secondary School Rajpura to educate students on menstrual management and hygiene. Led by Rajrani Sharma, the team provided vital information about the changes occurring in the body during menstruation, addressing common concerns and queries among adolescent girls. Additionally, Seema Pawar shared insights on maintaining a healthy diet and practicing yoga during menstrual cycles, emphasizing the importance of self-care. The session concluded with the distribution of sanitary pads to the students, ensuring access to essential menstrual hygiene products. The event received extensive support from individuals including Chandrapal, Shipra Kushwaha, Anju Yadav, and others, highlighting the collaborative effort to promote menstrual health awareness within the community.

In a concerted effort to promote menstrual hygiene education, a workshop was held at Dharohar Bal shelter home, supported by the Pinkishe Foundation, on Saturday. The workshop aimed to empower 30 adolescent girls with essential knowledge on menstrual hygiene management. Led by dedicated volunteers Pushpa Kandpal and Upasana, the workshop focused on imparting crucial information about maintaining hygiene during menstruation. Through interactive discussions and informative sessions, the volunteers addressed topics such as menstrual cycle awareness, proper hygiene practices, and the importance of using sanitary products.

In a significant initiative aimed at promoting menstrual health and hygiene awareness, a one-day training workshop was recently held at the Meerut Institute of Technology situated on the Partapur Bypass. Organized in collaboration with the Pinkishe Foundation, M.I.T Women's Cell, and N.S.S, the workshop brought together experts and representatives dedicated to addressing critical issues surrounding women's health. Led by a team from the Pinkish Foundation including Rajrani Sharma, Karuna Sharma, Seema Panwar, and Ritu Kaushik, alongside H.R. Head and Program Coordinator Sonal Ahlawat, the workshop covered various aspects of menstrual health and hygiene. Rajrani Sharma highlighted the program's focus on crucial topics like women's overall health, personal hygiene, menstrual hygiene, PCOS, and menopause—subjects often surrounded by social taboos and lack of awareness. Karuna Sharma emphasized the natural aspect of menstruation, contrasting it with the prevailing taboo and lack of discourse on the topic across the country. She stressed the importance of breaking such barriers to combat gender biases and promote social well-being. Seema Panwar delved into the scientific aspects of menstruation, dispelling myths and misconceptions prevalent in society. The training program saw enthusiastic participation from over 250 girls, all of whom received sanitary pads distributed by the Pinkish Foundation to support their menstrual hygiene needs. Representatives from M.I.T Women's Cell, including Reetima, Sonam Tomar, Shivi Singhal, and Kavita Sharma, played pivotal roles in organizing and supporting the event, underscoring the collaborative effort towards fostering awareness and empowerment in the community. The workshop not only provided vital knowledge but also served as a platform for open dialogue and education, striving to eliminate stigma and promote informed discussions on menstrual health and hygiene.

In a proactive initiative, a menstrual hygiene workshop was conducted at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Government Model Inter College in Kharkhoda, Meerut, in collaboration with the Pinkish Foundation. Led by Rajrani Sharma, Seema Pawar, and Ritu, the workshop focused on educating attendees about essential practices for maintaining hygiene and cleanliness during menstruation. The session also included demonstrations of important yoga postures suitable for menstrual health. Participants gained practical insights into adopting healthier habits during this crucial phase of their lives. To further support menstrual hygiene, sanitary napkin packets were distributed to participants at the conclusion of the workshop. The entire program was expertly managed by Aarti Singhal, a teacher at the school, with enthusiastic support from the entire teaching staff. Expressing gratitude for the impactful initiative, Reena Bhatnagar, the senior teacher of the school, extended heartfelt thanks to all individuals involved in making the workshop a success. This collaborative effort not only provided valuable knowledge but also promoted awareness and positive practices surrounding menstrual health within the school community.

In a joyous celebration, Swara, the literary platform of the Pinkish Foundation, adorned the Kiran Nadar Museum in Saket with the vibrant hues of Basantotsav. The event was graced by esteemed personalities including Dr. Malvika Hariom, Chairman of the Foundation, Chief Guest Renu Hussain, and distinguished guests Professor Rachna Sharma and Krishna Sharma Damini, who inaugurated the proceedings by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Following this auspicious start, Ms. Vandana Rani Dayal paid homage to Goddess Saraswati through a soulful rendition of Saraswati Vandana. Ms. Shalini Gupta, co-founder and national secretary of Pinkish, extended a warm welcome to attendees, presenting them with plants and souvenirs while introducing the organization and its mission. The event saw the participation of nearly 25 eminent female poets from Delhi and NCR, who enchanted the audience with their poetry inspired by the themes of spring and romance. Poets such as Parinita Sinha, Dr. Mukta Mishra, Meena Chaudhary, Saloni Monica, Dr. Varsha Singh, Sarita Guha, Punita Singh, Chanchal, Umang Sarin, Rachna Nimel, Anuradha Pandey, Meenakshi Bhasin, Kamna Mishra, Mamta Laddiwala, Ranjana Mazumdar, Nidhi Bhargava from Ghaziabad, alongside Manvi and Vibha Raj Vaibhavi, graced the stage with their poetic expressions. Mrs. Padit and Mrs. Kapila also shared their sentiments through poignant verses. To conclude, the Chairman, Chief Guest, and distinguished guests shared their perspectives eloquently. Mrs. Shraddha Pandey, Director of Swara, extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants, culminating the event on a note of appreciation and camaraderie.

At ITI Saket in Meerut, Rajrani Sharma, associated with the Pinkish Foundation, engaged with the girls on the topic of maintaining cleanliness and good health during menstruation. The initiative included setting up special machines that dispense sanitary pads to girls in need. These pads were distributed free of cost to alleviate any concerns the girls might have had about obtaining them. To access a pad, a girl could use a 5 rupee coin in the machine. In addition to the provision of pads, a meeting was organized for all the girls to discuss hygiene practices and proper nutrition during menstruation. Mrs. Rajrani led this informative session, covering essential facts about menstrual health and addressing common issues that girls might encounter during their periods. The project was made possible with the support of Mrs. Charu Gupta, who generously provided the necessary machines. Towards the conclusion of the initiative, the principal expressed gratitude and appreciation to everyone involved in making the project successful. This effort not only provided practical support but also fostered awareness and empowerment among the young girls at ITI Saket.

Pinkish Foundation NGO's National President Arun Gupta and National Secretary Shalini Gupta, with the cooperation of Collector Shri Dharmesh Kumar Sahu and IAS Shri Vasu Jain SDM Sarangarh, distributed sanitary pads free of cost to brides at the Chief Minister's Mass Marriage event held in Sarangarh. During this, Shalini Gupta provided information to the brides about the effects of menstruation on women's health. Along with this, awareness about women's health was also raised. The initiative of Pinkish Foundation NGO has strengthened the effort to improve menstrual health and end the stigma associated with menstruation across India. A special aspect in Sarangarh was that grooms pledged to continue supporting the health needs related to menstruation of their brides. This promise goes beyond a mere gesture; it is a commitment within marriage towards empathy, partnership, and shared responsibilities. This initiative is not just a celebration but a powerful step towards social progress and women's empowerment. It challenges norms, promotes necessary suggestions, and paves the way for acknowledging and addressing the fundamental needs of women. Shalini Gupta said that we celebrate this historic day, we are reminded that every small step in the direction of understanding and support can make significant progress in equality and empowerment. There is a future where every woman's health and dignity will be prioritized, leading to real empowerment for all. She also mentioned that not just Pinkishe Foundation but PM Shri Narendra Modi, Ministry of Women and Child Development led by Smriti Irani, Arundhati Murli Dharan (MHA) of Sachchi Saheli, and many more are actively working across the country so that women of India can live a life with dignity and care.

In a session led by trainer Rajrani Sharma, Pinkishe Foundation imparts vital knowledge on menstrual hygiene and self-care practices at Rajpura Pre-Secondary School. Seema Pawar supplements with insights on yoga and nutrition.

Haldwani - A workshop on menstrual hygiene was organized by Chetna Seva Samiti and Pinkishe Foundation in Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Rajpura. In which girls were made aware about cleanliness. Sanitary pads were also given to all the girls. During this, Pushpa Kandpal, Upasana and Sangeeta Shekhar etc. were present.

Pinkishe Foundation's commitment to empowering women takes a significant stride forward as it joins the prestigious Facebook Global Community Accelerator program. Amidst stiff competition, Pinkishe emerged as one of only 13 organizations selected from 13,000 entries nationwide, and just 130 globally. Through its dedicated Facebook group, Pinkishe connects women from diverse backgrounds, showcasing their contributions to society and providing a platform for recognition. From highlighting the special endeavors of women to offering support and encouragement, Pinkishe's selection underscores its pivotal role in championing women's voices and initiatives on a global scale.

Pinkishe also included in the organization selected for Facebook's Community Accelerator Program.

Lal Rang Zindagi literary seminar organized on menstrual hygiene day Pinkish is a registered women's NGO that launched a campaign to change health misconceptions and attitudes related to menstruation and female reproduction in India. Under this, the work of educating and making aware girls and women of socially, economically and educationally backward classes and distributing free pads was done from village to village.

Pinkish installed a pad vending machine in Government Senior Secondary School, Dobi, Hisar.

Many ghazalkaras from different states participated in the Mushaira of Pinkishe NGO organization

Pinkish Foundation is an organization working on menstrual hygiene. Today, on the occasion of International Menstrual Hygiene Day, Pinkish Foundation organized several online programs related to menstrual hygiene. Volunteers from various branches of Pinkish located across the country participated enthusiastically in the Period Warrior programme.

A health awareness camp was organized by Pinkish Foundation in primary school Mau Khas. In the camp, girls were given information about personal health. Sanitary pads were also distributed

In Aligarh, Saloni Upadhyay made women aware about the prevention of many diseases caused by the epidemic. Also distributed free sanitary pads

People of Villa Anandam Society of Meerut Road, with the help of Pinkishe Foundation, gave sanitary pads to the maids on Sunday. The women of the society have found a way to help by selling the papers coming out of their homes. Along with this, food is also being given to the needy people