Bandipora: Project RAHAT, a women-led sanitary pad manufacturing initiative in Shahgund, Bandipora, has earned recognition for its efforts towards women empowerment, menstrual hygiene awareness and livelihood generation.
Raziya Farooq, a member of the Self-Help Group associated with the project, was conferred the President Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) Appreciation Award and Medallion in recognition of her contribution to the initiative.
Project RAHAT was started by the Indian Army with the objective of creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local women and promoting awareness about menstrual hygiene. Since its inception, the project has provided women associated with the Self-Help Group an opportunity to acquire skills and become involved in a locally based enterprise.
The Army supported the initiative with infrastructure, training, mentorship and manufacturing equipment. The project, which initially operated from a rented premises, has now been shifted to a renovated production centre at Hajin.
The new facility is being used not only for manufacturing sanitary pads but also for conducting menstrual hygiene awareness and community outreach activities. The initiative seeks to encourage girls and women to approach menstrual health with greater awareness and dignity.
Officials associated with the project said efforts are also being made to strengthen its marketing and market linkages. A marketing partner has been identified to facilitate wider distribution of the products and help the women-led unit move towards greater sustainability.
The recognition of Raziya Farooq by AWWA has brought further attention to the work being carried out by the Self-Help Group and the women associated with Project RAHAT.
The initiative has emerged as an example of how institutional support and participation of local women can help create livelihood opportunities while addressing an important community concern such as menstrual hygiene.
The Indian Army congratulated Raziya Farooq and members of the Self-Help Group for the recognition and said it would continue to support initiatives aimed at women empowerment, community development and sustainable livelihoods.
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