A ROADMAP FOR STATE-LEVEL INSTITUTIONALISATION OF MENSTRUAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE
UNICEF
This UNICEF-commissioned project examined Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHM) programming across six Indian states to identify gaps, best practices, and pathways for institutionalisation at the state level. The study mapped MHM within government structures, assessed implementation barriers, and highlighted innovations. The findings were compiled into a compelling and visually engaging report featuring infographics and real-life insights to support policy adoption.
The report included a roadmap created with action points for institutionalising MHH into existing state level programmes ensuring long-term, systemic change in access to menstrual health and hygiene awareness and infrastructure for young girls.
THE CHALLENGE
Documenting menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) programs across six states to develop a scalable model for state-level integration. This involved identifying best practices, challenges, gaps, and human-interest stories to inform policy, program design and explore how states can institutionalise MHH within existing state government programs.
THE SOLUTION
Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) is a cross-cutting issue that is often deprioritised and fragmented across various government schemes. The approach focused on generating evidence that would drive its integration into state-level initiatives, ensuring sustainable impact without the need for standalone programs.
Implemented in two phases, the first phase focused on conducting an in-depth assessment of MHM programming across six states, identifying strengths, gaps, and opportunities for institutionalising MHH within government structures. The second phase used these insights to develop recommendations for institutionalising MHM at the state level, creating a structured roadmap tailored to each state’s needs. The final output was a visually engaging, evidence-rich document designed to drive policy adoption and program implementation.
