Tag: women

National

Right to Menstrual Health Is a Fundamental Right Under Article 21: Supreme Court

Tanisha Cardozo

In a historic judgment on January 31, 2026, the Supreme Court of India declared that menstrual health and hygiene are integral to the right to life and dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution, issuing a series of comprehensive directions aimed at ensuring dignity, health, gender equality and educational access for adolescent girls. The ruling acknowledged that inaccessibility to menstrual hygiene management measures, such as sanitary products and proper sanitation, undermines the dignity and participation of girls in education and daily life.

A bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan emphasised that access to menstrual hygiene facilities is essential for dignified living and cannot be treated as a welfare benefit alone. The court noted that barriers to menstrual health disproportionately affect girls’ education, leading to absenteeism, stigmatization and unequal opportunities.

Under the directions, all states and Union Territories are required to ensure that every school — government, government-aided and privately managed — is equipped with functional gender-segregated toilets with usable water supply, hand-washing stations with soap, and privacy and accessibility that also cater to the needs of children with disabilities.

The bench further ordered the free provision of oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins compliant with applicable standards to girl students. These pads should be made readily accessible, preferably within toilet premises through sanitary napkin vending machines, or, where vending machines are not feasible, at a designated point or with a responsible authority in the school.

In addition, schools must establish Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) corners, stocked with spare uniforms, innerwear, disposable pads, sanitary waste disposal systems compliant with environmental rules, and emergency supplies. The Court also directed the establishment of safe, hygienic mechanisms for sanitary waste disposal in line with Solid Waste Management rules.

The Court emphasised the need for periodic inspections of school infrastructure and facilities, including toilets, availability of menstrual products, and proper sanitation maintenance. It also called for gender-responsive education and awareness programmes, suggesting inclusion of information on menstruation, puberty and related health topics, to break taboos and stigma.

The judgment stemmed from a Public Interest Litigation filed in 2024 by social activist Jaya Thakur, seeking nationwide implementation of the government’s Menstrual Hygiene Policy for school-going girls and highlighting gaps in access to sanitary products and sanitation facilities.

The Supreme Court made it clear that non-compliance with its directions — including failure by private schools to provide mandated facilities — may lead to deregistration of institutions, and that state governments and authorities will be held accountable for implementation lapses.

Legal experts and educationists have described the verdict as a major step toward gender justice, public health, and educational equality, with the potential to reduce school dropouts among adolescent girls and promote healthier, stigma-free environments across educational institutions nationwide.

Sports

Deepti Sharma: The Calm in India’s Storm and the Heart of a Historic World Cup Win

Tanisha Cardozo

In the storm of high-pressure moments, Deepti Sharma is India’s calm — steady, composed, and unshakeably resilient. Not just a cricketing star, she is also a proud Deputy Superintendent of Police in Uttar Pradesh, carrying both the India jersey and the police star with equal honour and pride.

Yesterday, as India created history by lifting their first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Deepti stood right at the heart of that glory — named Player of the Tournament for her exceptional all-round performance. Her consistent contributions with both bat and ball turned tight moments into triumphs and inspired millions watching around the world.

As celebrations erupted across the nation, emotions overflowed in her home in Agra. Her mother, Sushila Sharma, holding back tears of joy, said, “Deepti has fulfilled the dream of the entire nation… She has made India proud.” It was a moment that captured the spirit of not just victory, but of perseverance, sacrifice, and love.

Born on 24 August 1997, Deepti’s journey began with one fateful throw at the age of eight that caught the attention of former India cricketer Hemlata Kala — an instant that changed her life forever. Her brother, Sumit Sharma, became her first coach and guiding force. Leaving behind the comfort of a stable job, he dedicated himself fully to Deepti’s cricketing dream. Against all odds and in the face of constant societal skepticism, the Sharma family stood tall — proving that belief can silence doubt and courage can conquer convention.

From her selection in the Uttar Pradesh state team at just 12 to making her international debut at 17, Deepti’s rise has been marked by relentless discipline and quiet determination. Over the years, she has become India’s crisis warrior — the one who steps in when pressure peaks and delivers when it matters most.

Her heroics in the 2025 World Cup, both with the bat and ball, have now etched her name permanently in India’s cricketing history. Beyond the numbers, Deepti Sharma’s story is a celebration of patience, perseverance, and purpose — a reminder that true champions are not born in comfort, but forged in courage.

Today, as both a World Cup champion and a DSP, Deepti stands as a symbol of discipline, service, and strength. She represents the new India — one where women break boundaries, wear multiple hats with pride, and lead by example. Her story continues to inspire a generation to dream beyond limits and to rise, every time, with unwavering belief.

EduConnect

Yashogatha Naritvachi – A Tribute to India’s Trailblazing Women at Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar School

Tanisha Cardozo

At Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar School, Navratri 2025 was marked not just with traditional celebration, but with a meaningful tribute to India’s real-life icons through a program titled Yashogatha Naritvachi – Aadarsh Karyamagntachi — Saga of Womanhood – A Journey of Ideal Dedication. This initiative sought to spotlight the lives and legacies of eleven extraordinary women in Indian history whose courage, dedication, and contributions continue to inspire the nation.

Just as Navratri celebrates the divine feminine through nine goddesses, the school chose this auspicious time to remember women who embodied those very ideals in real life. Through thoughtful presentations, storytelling, and student engagement, the school celebrated their spirit — courage in the face of adversity, intellect breaking barriers, and service that uplifted generations.

Among those honored was Vyomika Singh, a trailblazer in India’s armed forces, known for her pivotal role in military operations. Her story resonated with students as an example of breaking gender stereotypes and serving the country with valor. Anandi Gopal Joshi, the first Indian woman trained in Western medicine, was remembered as a symbol of academic pursuit and perseverance. The story of Arunima Sinha, the first female amputee to scale Mount Everest, reminded students of resilience and determination in the face of unimaginable odds.

Other legendary women featured in the program included Rani Avantibai, one of the earliest female leaders to fight against British colonial rule in 1857; Shakuntala Devi, famed for her genius-level mental calculations; and Shanti Devi, India’s first female truck mechanic. Equally inspiring were the legacies of Ahilyabai Holkar, whose governance and civic contributions left a long-lasting impact, and Tulsi Gowda, revered as the “Encyclopedia of the Forest” for her environmental stewardship.

Jijabai’s contribution to shaping the vision and values of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was highlighted, alongside the revolutionary work of Madam Bhikaji Cama, the first person to unfurl an Indian flag on foreign soil. The pioneering efforts of Savitribai Phule, India’s first female teacher, stood as a beacon for educational reform and women’s empowerment.

Led by the school’s Headmistress, Mrs. Jyoti Chiplunkar, the program was deeply impactful, not only paying tribute to these incredible women but also planting seeds of inspiration in the young minds who attended. Through narratives and visuals, teachers engaged students in exploring the depth of these women’s contributions and urged them to emulate their values — courage, wisdom, service, and resilience.

Yashogatha Naritvachi – Aadarsh Karyamagntachi was more than a school event; it was a celebration of womanhood, a history lesson, and a motivational journey all in one. As the spirit of Navratri filled the school with festive energy, the stories of these remarkable women lit a spark that will continue to inspire and guide the future generation.

Health

Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan: Health Camp in Mayem Receives Overwhelming Response

Tanisha Cardozo

A free health camp organised under the Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar (SNSP) Abhiyaan at Mayem Panchayat Hall on 21st September witnessed an enthusiastic response, with over 100 women and children availing themselves of a range of medical services.

The initiative, led by the Public Health Centre (PHC), Mayem, provided critical preventive and diagnostic services such as general checkups, blood pressure monitoring, haemoglobin testing, diabetes screening, breast cancer screening, PAP smear tests, sputum collection, chest X-rays, and eye checkups — all free of cost.

The event was inaugurated by Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), who lauded the initiative as a proactive step towards preventing medical emergencies and promoting family health through better women’s healthcare. “These camps are crucial for improving the health of women, which in turn leads to stronger, healthier households,” he stated.

Premendra Shet, MLA of Mayem, highlighted that the health camp was part of broader welfare efforts under the “Seva Parva” initiative. He praised the selfless efforts of doctors and healthcare staff in bringing quality medical services to grassroots communities.

Other dignitaries present included Chandrakant Shetye, MLA from Bicholim Constituency; former MLA Damu Naik; and the Sarpanch of Mayem Panchayat. Dr. Urmila Gauns, the Nodal Officer for the camp, welcomed the guests and coordinated the camp’s activities along with the local health department staff.

The Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17th September as a national mission to deliver preventive, promotive, and curative healthcare services to women and children. Organised jointly by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Ministry of Women & Child Development, the campaign aims to conduct over 10 lakh health camps across the country until 2nd October, focusing on reaching the last mile.

In Goa, health camps are being held across all villages, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive healthcare delivery. The Mayem health camp serves as a shining example of what community-based outreach can achieve when local leaders and medical professionals come together with a shared mission.

Events in Goa

LeadHERShip 2025: Empowering Goa’s Women to Lead, Inspire, and Achieve

Tanisha Cardozo

On a rainy Tuesday evening, the Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall in Panjim was filled with determination and drive as the Women’s Wing of the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) hosted LeadHERShip 2025.

This inspirational event, held on August 18, 2025, was not just a seminar—it was a powerful platform dedicated to empowering women to rise as leaders, mentors, and entrepreneurs in the Goan community and beyond.

Welcoming attendees to the program, Ms. Sandra Fernandes, Chairperson of the GCCI Women’s Wing, described LeadHERShip as more than a leadership initiative—it’s a movement. Applauding the audience for showing up despite the monsoon rains, she highlighted the collective commitment to advancing women’s roles in business, leadership, and society.

The event’s Chief Guest, Ms. Pratima Dhond, President of GCCI, emphasized the importance of women exploring leadership and entrepreneurship as viable, fulfilling career paths—encouraging them to look beyond conventional government roles and envision a future of impact and innovation.

The program featured engaging and practical sessions led by industry professionals and mentors:

  • “How to Start a Business” – Mr. Tushar Sawant from FiiRE offered practical insights into launching a startup in today’s market.
  • “Entrepreneurship & Its Benefits” – Delivered by Ms. Pallavi Salgaocar, Mentor of the GCCI Women’s Wing, this session inspired attendees with stories of successful women entrepreneurs and the long-term impact of self-driven ventures.
  • Mock Interview Session – Led by Ms. Simran Dhond, this interactive session helped participants improve their job-readiness and interview skills.
  • Mentorship Insights – Ms. Gouri Joshi guided attendees on the value of mentorship, both as mentors and mentees, in personal and professional growth.

The event ran smoothly thanks to the dedication of the Women’s Wing Committee and the GCCI team. It was beautifully compered by Ms. Nandita Dayal, with speaker introductions by Ms. Swatee Rane, Ms. Adbrona Valadares, and Ms. Clare De Souza.

Ms. Poonam Ajgaonkar, Co-Chairperson of the Women’s Wing, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, while the entire event was coordinated efficiently by Ms. Melane Rodrigues, Assistant Director, GCCI.

LeadHERShip 2025 wasn’t just a day of talks—it was a celebration of women’s ambition, resilience, and leadership. It gave attendees the tools, motivation, and community support needed to take their next steps—whether into entrepreneurship, leadership, or mentorship.

As Goa continues to shape a more inclusive and dynamic business ecosystem, events like LeadHERShip play a critical role in bridging the gap between aspiration and action.