I am truly overwhelmed by what happened last Friday! 

But at first, I want to thank all of you who have been with me throughout this campaign. I am feeling a range of emotions while writing this update.

On August 21, 2020 (Friday) on behalf of all of you, I delivered a special gift box containing locally manufactured pads and a sample hygiene kit to the office of Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, Health and Finance Minister of Assam (see photo).

Yes, a box of pads! I have been introverted throughout my life so initially delivering a box of pads seemed like a drastic step. But I realized that I must do it because we have waited far too long. One year ago, the then Disaster Management Minister told the media the government is NOT distributing pads as these are not mentioned in the list of relief material provided to flood shelters and that they would require separate budgetary allocation.

So, the box of pads is also a symbolic gift from all of us to remind the government that adding pads is not just like adding another item to their list of essentials, but it is a huge step towards showing the country that the Assam government cares for our sisters who are trapped in floods every year.

When I first heard the story of a fifteen year old girl and many like her facing shame and indignity at flood shelters due to the lack of pads or even a clean piece of cloth, I wanted to make their voices heard by filing this petition. Initially I had doubts about getting enough support. But I was so wrong! As I look at the growing number of supporters, I feel emotional. You, yes each one of YOU is making me feel we can achieve our goal because we care.

What’s next?

• I had also sent a similar gift box of pads and a letter to the CEO of Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), I am happy to inform that he has acknowledged receiving this from us. I will be in touch with ASDMA this week.
• I will also follow up with the office of Mr Himanta Biswa Sarma if there is no response by this week.

Finally, I would like to especially thank a fellow menstrual health advocate from Assam, Nelson Deb, Founder of The Eco Hub who helped deliver the gift boxes as I am stuck in another location due to travel restrictions. I am so inspired to find collaborators like him who believe in the cause of women’s health and gender equality.

I still need your help...

Please, please share my petition. We need more people to join us!

If you want to send a similar gift to Mr Sarma at his office address, try to find an eco-friendly option. This article on sustainable menstrual health products is a helpful guide.  

I hope to come with an update soon. Till then, my deep regards to all of you.

- Mayuri

Campaigner, Dignity in Floods

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