IIM Bodh Gaya Marks Another Year Of ‘Happy Periods’ Menstrual Awareness Campaign
Bodh Gaya, January 17, 2026 – IIM Bodh Gaya has successfully launched another year of its menstrual awareness initiative, reaching over 300 schoolgirls in and around Bodh Gaya. The outreach program aims to break the taboos surrounding menstruation and promote menstrual hygiene among young women.
Campaign Overview
The campaign, titled Pankhuri: Happy Periods, is being conducted in two phases. The first phase took place on January 17, 2026, at the Government Girls Middle School and M S Basadhi in Bodh Gaya. A second phase is scheduled for mid-February 2026.
Program Activities
During the sessions, students were introduced to essential information about menstruation through a variety of interactive methods. The program included:
- Interactive discussions
- Question-and-answer segments
- Short activities designed to encourage open conversation
The organizers aimed to create a comfortable environment where girls could freely discuss their concerns and clarify long-standing doubts about menstrual health.
Street Theatre Performance
As part of the initiative, a street play was performed to highlight the social prejudices and challenges women face during menstruation. This creative approach helped engage the audience and foster a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding menstrual health.
Student Feedback
One student expressed that the program made it easier to discuss periods and enhanced her understanding of menstrual health. Such feedback underscores the importance of open dialogue in addressing menstrual taboos.
Community Impact
School authorities welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that efforts like these could significantly raise awareness at the grassroots level. They believe that such campaigns can gradually help reduce the stigma associated with menstruation, which is often a barrier to education and health for young girls.
Distribution of Sanitary Pads
The program concluded with the distribution of 4,800 sanitary pads to the students. This distribution is part of IIM Bodh Gaya’s broader commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, ensuring that young women have access to necessary menstrual hygiene products.
Leadership and Organization
The initiative was spearheaded by IIM Bodh Gaya’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) committee, known as Pragati. The campaign was conducted under the guidance of the institute’s director, Dr. Vineeta Sahay, and supervised by the committee’s chair, Prof. Suresh K G, who played a vital role in the planning and execution of the campaign.
Conclusion
The ‘Happy Periods’ campaign by IIM Bodh Gaya represents a significant step towards normalizing discussions around menstruation and promoting menstrual health among young girls. By addressing these issues head-on, the initiative not only empowers young women but also contributes to a broader societal change in attitudes towards menstruation.
Note: The success of such initiatives highlights the importance of education and community involvement in breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive society.
