DIMAPUR — Dimapur 24/7, a non-governmental organisation, conducted a workshop focusing on education, mental health and menstrual hygiene at Grace Assembly of God Church, Diphupar ‘B’ village, Chümoukedima district, on November 17.
According to an update, the event themed ‘Menstrual hygiene is empowerment,’ was attended by the students, women folk and community members from Diphupar ‘B’ village.
The workshop aimed to raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being, educational perspectives and menstrual hygiene. Led by Annie Jain, chairperson of Dimapur 24/7, the event also featured the distribution of sanitary pads, razors and soaps to attendees. Sanitary pads for the initiative were sponsored by Madan Sharma and Co. and Falguni Enterprise.
In her address on mental health and menstrual hygiene, Annie Jain underlined the need to break taboos surrounding these topics and emphasised the need for open dialogue and practical solutions to empower women and girls.
She highlighted the critical role menstrual hygiene plays in breaking cycles of stigma and ensuring better health outcomes.
“Menstrual hygiene is not just about access to sanitary products; it’s about dignity, empowerment, and creating environments where women feel safe and supported. By addressing this, we can help women focus on their education and ambitions without the barriers of shame or discomfort,” Jain said.
Regarding mental health, she stressed the importance of community awareness, encouraging participants to prioritise their emotional well-being.
“Mental health is integral to overall health, yet it is often overlooked. By creating understanding and reducing stigma, we can create a supportive network where people feel comfortable seeking help,” she said.
The Dimapur 24/7 chairperson also spoke on the progressive measures taken by some Indian states to support women’s health and well-being in the workplace. She noted that “Kerala, Bihar, and Odisha have taken a pioneering step by allowing women under 55 years of age to avail leave on the first or second day of their menstrual cycle. This policy applies to both government and private sector employees, making them the first states in the country to implement such an initiative.”
Uday Kumar Sah, an executive member of Dimapur 24/7, spoke on education, urging attendees to adopt a broader perspective. He remarked, “Education is not just about cracking exams or securing government jobs. It is about winning behaviour, uplifting society, building character, and contributing towards the nation and community.”
He further emphasised the importance of having multiple goals, stating, “Education should never be wasted due to depression or failure to achieve a single goal. People must be equipped with alternative plans to ensure a self-sustaining and fulfilling life.”
Allan Aley, another executive member, provided insights on education and mental health from a biblical perspective, encouraging attendees to align their personal growth with Christian values.
“Dimapur 24/7 remains committed to empowering communities by addressing critical social issues and raising awareness for a healthier and more informed society,” the update added.