Case Study of the Day: Umang Ek Pahal

Umang Ek Pahal is a convergence initiative aimed at addressing the issue of high absenteeism and dropouts among rural girls in Jhajjar due to the lack of access to sanitary napkins. The project provides free sanitary napkins to adolescent girls in government schools to encourage them to continue their education.

Implementation

• Initially, schools with a higher number of girls were identified, and funds from Sarva Siksha Abhiyan (SSA) were used to implement the project in phases.
• Collaboration with Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP), Nari ki Chaupal, and Balika Manch platforms enhanced the impact of the initiative.

Factors for Success

• Strong support from the Department of Education and District Administration played a crucial role in the project’s success.
• Regular monitoring by field coordinators ensured an adequate supply of sanitary napkins in schools.
• The District Task Force of BBBP provided valuable support for the initiative.

Outcomes and Impact

• Umang Ek Pahal has been implemented in 200 Government schools, benefiting 13,438 girls over six months.
• Absenteeism among girls decreased by up to 40% since the project’s inception.
• The initiative increased the confidence levels of girls during Balika Manch activities.
• Additionally, it generated employment opportunities for 22 women involved in sanitary napkin production.

Challenges and Future Prospects

• The major challenge was the lack of affordable sanitary napkins in the region, which the initiative successfully addressed by providing them free of cost.
• To further break the taboo around menstruation, continuous advocacy and state campaigns will be essential for the future success of Umang Ek Pahal.

In conclusion, Umang Ek Pahal has made a significant positive impact by providing access to sanitary napkins and reducing absenteeism among adolescent girls in Jhajjar. To ensure its sustainability and success, ongoing monitoring and awareness campaigns will be crucial.

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