Lucknow's Hygiene Initiative Reaches 14.64 Lakh, Empowers Girls

In October 2025, the women and child development department of the Uttar Pradesh government launched a personal hygiene initiative as part of the state's Mission Shakti program. The campaign, which coincided with International Girl Child Week (October 3-11), aimed to spread awareness about menstrual and personal hygiene across the state.

The initiative featured open, interactive sessions between health experts and adolescent girls in women and child-care institutions. The discussions focused on the safe use and disposal of sanitary pads and dispelled common myths about menstruation through a scientific lens. The campaign also included awareness drives in over 100 child care homes, eight women's shelters, a protection home, and a special cell for mentally challenged women.

"The initiative aimed not just at education, but at empowering girls to view hygiene as a key aspect of dignity, health, and independence," said Leena Johri, Additional Chief Secretary of the Women and Child Development department. "Poor menstrual hygiene is linked to infections and reproductive issues, affecting a girl's long-term well-being. By fostering open dialogue, the campaign seeks to normalise menstruation and break long-standing taboos."

As of October 10, 2025, the reach of the personal hygiene initiative had crossed 14.64 lakh people in Uttar Pradesh, according to an official spokesperson.