Delhi University’s IPCW, UNESCO Launch India’s First Menstrual Health Course

In a significant move toward advancing menstrual equity, Indraprastha College for Women, under University of Delhi, has partnered with UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia to launch “Empower Flow: A Certificate Course for Menstrual Health & Hygiene – Spotlight Red.” The initiative marks the

first structured academic programme in India dedicated to menstrual health.

The programme, unveiled in New Delhi, brought together key dignitaries including Nayana Sahasrabuddhe, Lena Bäcker, and Joyce Poan, alongside Huma Masood. The course is designed to address stigma and knowledge gaps surrounding menstruation by integrating health, education, and gender perspectives into a formal curriculum.

Led by Principal Poonam Kumria and coordinated by Chetna Gupta, the initiative aims to equip students with awareness, sensitivity, and leadership skills to foster informed conversations. It seeks to tackle persistent barriers that impact education and well-being, particularly among young women.

Speakers at the launch underscored the urgency of normalising menstrual health discourse. While highlighting gaps in awareness and access, they called for stronger institutional frameworks and public education efforts to address the issue holistically. The programme aligns with the broader vision of Narendra Modi on promoting dignity and empowerment for women.

With plans to expand outreach across colleges and communities nationwide, the initiative reflects a growing emphasis on gender-sensitive education and social inclusion. The collaboration between IPCW and UNESCO aims to drive sustained dialogue and systemic change in menstrual health awareness across India.