Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, Aug 11: The State Government’s ‘Ritu Tara’ programme is an important initiative aimed at creating awareness about menstrual hygiene and health among adolescent girls and women, said Mamatha S Gatti, chairperson of the Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation.

Speaking at a press conference held at the city’s Press Club on Tuesday, she said the primary objective of the programme is to dispel myths, misconceptions and hesitation surrounding menstruation and provide scientific information to girls and women.

She stressed the need to educate adolescent girls about safe and healthy menstrual hygiene practices and provide necessary support to ensure that menstruation does not affect their education or school attendance.

“Along with the use of sanitary pads, it is also important to create awareness about eco-friendly alternatives such as menstrual cups,” she said.

Gatti also highlighted the need to create awareness among women about menopause. She said menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life and that women should be provided with proper information about physical and psychological changes that may occur during this period, including hot flashes, sleep disturbances and mood changes. Women should also be encouraged to seek medical advice when necessary, she added.

She called for parents, teachers, health workers and society to work together to encourage open and scientific discussions on menstrual and women’s health.

“Ritu Tara is not merely a menstrual hygiene programme, but a comprehensive women’s health initiative aimed at providing health, dignity, awareness and confidence to women at every stage, from adolescence to menopause,” she explained.

Chanchalakshi Tejomaya, Vijayalakshmi Shetty, Suma Manvi and Premalatha were present at the press conference.