A remarkable women’s group from the remote village Shahgund nestled in the scenic landscapes of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district has taken the initiative to produce and promote sanitary napkins.
Comprising eleven dedicated members, their mission is to spread awareness about women’s health and hygiene in every village and far-flung area of Kashmir. Raziya, the owner of the unit, shared her vision, expressing the group’s determination to improve the lives of rural women while earning a livelihood. Raziya pointed out that many women in villages and remote areas lack knowledge about health and hygiene, leaving them vulnerable to various diseases and health issues.
“We decided to provide them with knowledge and raise awareness about hygiene. In our village, Shahgund, we distribute sanitary products to women. However, our ultimate goal is to extend our reach to every village in Kashmir and spread health and hygiene awareness among women,” she said.
Inspired by the formation of a Self Help Group and supported by the ‘JKRLM UMEED scheme, the group embarked on thorough research in their surroundings. The findings revealed a dire need to educate women about the benefits of using sanitary pads.
Raziya emphasized that in their research, they discovered that many women were unaware of the proper use of sanitary napkins. “Instead, they have been resorting to using clothes or fabrics, which can lead to numerous health problems,” she added.
Recognizing the significance of providing women with essential knowledge, one of the group members, Zahida, passionately stated, “Access to proper hygiene products is a fundamental right for women. By distributing sanitary napkins and raising awareness about their usage, we are not only ensuring their health and well-being but also empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.”
