In India, menstruation is a topic often shrouded in stigma and discomfort, making it one of the least discussed health issues among women and adolescent girls. This lack of dialogue leaves many young girls unprepared and women reluctant to seek guidance regarding their health.
To tackle this issue, Vedanta Aluminium is advancing preventive healthcare and raising awareness through Project Arogyam in communities surrounding its Kuraloi, Jamkhani, and Ghogharpalli coal mines located in the Jharsuguda and Sundargarh districts.
Recently, the company organized a week-long Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Programme, which successfully reached over 670 women and adolescent girls. The program included expert-led sessions on topics such as menstrual hygiene, nutrition, pain management, and the use of sustainable menstrual products, aiming to replace myths with factual information.
Adding a cultural aspect, the initiative incorporated Odisha’s traditional Alta ritual linked to the Raja festival, celebrating womanhood while emphasizing that menstruation is a natural occurrence.
Bebina Sahu, a 14-year-old from Kuraloi village, shared her newfound understanding, stating, “Before, I only learned about menstruation in school. After attending the session, I realized the importance of maintaining menstrual hygiene, using sanitary pads correctly, and consulting a doctor when necessary. I now feel much more confident in managing my health.”
Dr. Rahul Sahu, a Gynaecologist at Lakhanpur Community Health Centre, highlighted the significance of such initiatives, asserting, “Raising awareness about menstrual health is one of the most effective ways to empower women and adolescent girls. Programs like these arm them with the knowledge to make informed choices while aiding communities in breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation.”
Amares Kumar, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium Coal Mines, remarked, “At Vedanta Aluminium Coal Mines, we believe that empowering communities starts with access to knowledge and quality healthcare. Through Project Arogyam, we are establishing safe spaces for women and girls to discuss menstrual health openly, make informed decisions, and lead healthier lives. By enhancing awareness today, we are nurturing stronger, more resilient communities for the future.”
In addition to community engagement, Project Arogyam is also working with schoolchildren to foster informed discussions about puberty and menstrual health. In the fiscal year 2025-26, the initiative reached over 1,400 students in the Jharsuguda and Sundargarh districts through tailored awareness sessions. Both boys and girls received heating pads and informative books on puberty to offer age-appropriate and culturally sensitive information, thereby enhancing their understanding and confidence.
The menstrual hygiene awareness programme is part of the larger impact of Project Arogyam, which has positively affected over 50,000 individuals across Jharsuguda and Sundargarh through mobile health units, specialist medical camps, and preventive healthcare efforts.
These activities are complemented by Vedanta Aluminium’s extensive community development initiatives surrounding its coal mining operations, benefiting over 200,000 people in 26 villages.
Vedanta Aluminium remains committed to supporting development in Odisha through targeted interventions in healthcare, education, livelihoods, infrastructure, and social development, collaborating closely with local stakeholders to create lasting impact. This reflects the company’s dedication to inclusive growth and enhancing lives at the grassroots level.
