Driving India’s Menstrual Health Movement Forward: Key Takeaways From the 5th MHM India Summit 2025

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Menstrual health is gaining national momentum in India, as demonstrated by the vibrant atmosphere at the 5th MHM India Summit 2025 in New Delhi. Hosted by Gramalaya, the event unified more than 280 delegates from government, global development, healthcare, academia, social enterprises, and grassroots organisations, all committed to elevating menstrual health as a critical national agenda.

A Powerful Start With Ground-Level Advocacy

Photo Credit: Boldsky

A symbolic welcome was also extended to the Bike Riders from Trichy, whose journey represented grassroots commitment to menstrual health advocacy.
Adding to this spirit of ground-level mobilisation, the arrival of the 'Birds of Roads' Bike Rally stirred the crowd. The riders travelled almost 5,000 kilometres across 10 states, symbolising the grassroots commitment to menstrual hygiene awareness that is growing. Their presence sealed the summit's sense of community-driven momentum.

India's 1st Menstrual Waste-Free, Period-Friendly School

The major highlight came when Gramalaya announced the recognition of Arimalam Government Higher Secondary School, Pudukottai, Tamil Nadu, as India's first Menstrual Waste-Free and Period-Friendly School.

This breakthrough model includes:

• 100% adoption of reusable cloth pads
• A dedicated period-friendly toilet complex
• An incinerator for safe disposal
• Trained teachers on MHM
• Sensitised students practising sustainable menstrual health

In a country where inadequate facilities still stand in the way of girls' education, this school leads the way as one of the first examples of comprehensive menstrual support.

Key Themes From the Discussions

This summit triggered deeper, solution-focused discussions across the different panels. While the participants themselves represented many diverse sectors, a few themes cropped up regularly:

1. Strengthening Menstrual Health Infrastructure

The speakers emphasised how schools, workplaces, and institutions are in dire need of clean, private, and accessible WASH facilities. Infrastructure remains a critical gap affecting the attendance, dignity, and comfort of menstruators.

2. Education & Behaviour Change

Experts concurred that access to menstrual products is not enough. Normalisation of the conversation on menstruation must be effected at the family, school, community, and work environments.

3. Eco-Friendly Products & Waste Management

Innovators showcased products for sustainable menstruation supported by evidence-based waste management models. Menstrual health and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

4. Menstrual Health as a Medical Priority

Health professionals further discussed PMS, anaemia, and menstrual disorders, which again stressed the need for greater integration of menstrual health within regular healthcare services.

5. Inclusivity Across Communities

Strong emphasis was laid on meeting the menstrual needs of differently abled, transgender persons, and vulnerable groups, particularly in humanitarian contexts.

Celebrating a Record-Breaking Hygiene Initiative

The summit also felicitated the success of the Largest Handwashing Awareness Campaign, carried out by Gramalaya with the Dettol Banega Swasth India. The campaign spanned 181 days, reached 10,00,106 students across 4,921 schools, and was officially recognised by the India Book of Records. The certificate was presented to Prof. Ravi Bhatnagar during the event.

Honouring Changemakers and Setting the Path Forward

The event concluded with the MHM Awards 2025, celebrating ground breaking work in advocacy, innovation, and community outreach. Closing remarks by the leaders from different sectors once again reflected India's commitment toward a menstrual health-positive society through continued partnerships and policy alignment.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.