Recent findings from the Ujaas menstrual hygiene initiative, an effort under the Aditya Birla Education Trust which is founded by Advaitesha Birla, reveal a marked improvement in menstrual health literacy in Maharashtra, as adolescent girls and other community stakeholders demonstrate increased awareness and behavioural change. As detailed in the Ujaas Impact Report 2024–25, 94% of adolescent girls across 14 districts now feel equipped to challenge long-standing myths surrounding menstruation. The data, drawn from a study of over 1.9 lakh individuals, was released on May 27, 2025, to coincide with World Menstrual Hygiene Day.
Substantial progress in awareness and education
The Ujaas menstrual hygiene initiative has contributed to a 32% rise in menstrual health literacy in Maharashtra, accompanied by a 57% reduction in the belief that menstrual blood is unclean. These figures reflect broader shifts in perceptions and understanding, particularly in the realm of adolescent girls menstrual education, where 89% of girls can now correctly identify hygiene products—a 42% increase since the implementation of educational interventions.
The initiative’s reach extends beyond girls. In a parallel shift, 91% of boys now grasp key concepts related to puberty, with 36% expressing greater comfort in purchasing menstrual products. This trend indicates a growing acceptance of menstrual hygiene for boys and girls, an area previously marked by hesitation and social stigma. The integration of both genders in menstrual education efforts has played a crucial role in driving this transformation.
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Community engagement and grassroots impact
A critical component of the Ujaas menstrual hygiene initiative has been its collaboration with Anganwadi workers. Once reluctant to engage in public discussions on menstruation, 88% now confidently address the topic in community meetings, and 80% are comfortable speaking about it with male family members. This reflects a broader societal shift that aligns with the goals of adolescent girls menstrual education and wider acceptance of menstrual hygiene for boys and girls.
Since its launch in 2021, the initiative has reached 5.9 lakh individuals across Maharashtra. More than 4.9 million free sanitary pads have been distributed, and over 18,000 awareness sessions have been conducted. A mobile outreach unit, the Menstrual Health Express, has travelled 10,000 km through 25 states and 106 cities. Economic empowerment has also been addressed through the establishment of women-led cloth pad manufacturing units, starting with one in Jalna.
Looking ahead, the Ujaas menstrual hygiene initiative aims to expand its impact beyond the current districts. Continued emphasis on menstrual health literacy in Maharashtra, inclusive menstrual hygiene for boys and girls, and strengthening adolescent girls menstrual education will remain central to its efforts. Future plans include extending the initiative to three additional states, broadening its reach while maintaining its grassroots focus.
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Conclusion
The Ujaas menstrual hygiene initiative is bringing real change in Maharashtra. Here’s how:
- Menstrual health literacy among girls increased by 32%.
- There was a 57% drop in the belief that menstrual blood is unclean.
- 36% more boys are now comfortable buying menstrual products.
- 88% of Anganwadi Workers are now public advocates, openly talking about menstrual health.
These changes show that adolescent girls menstrual education and menstrual hygiene for boys and girls are improving. It’s a big step toward breaking taboos and building a more informed society.
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