Aranyaj Sanitary Napkin Production & Distribution units:  

We are a voluntary organization that aims to bring about a positive change in the lives of women who are victims of domestic violence and social injustice. Our initiative involves running three low-cost sanitary napkin manufacturing units in Ashokenagar, Dumdum, and Sundarban. The objective behind this initiative is to provide livelihood support to women and increase the accessibility of pads, which helps break the silence surrounding menstruation and provides a shared sense of social and economic empowerment.

One of the significant problems faced by India is the improper disposal of sanitary napkins. It is estimated that at least 60 million napkins are not disposed of properly, which poses a severe threat to the environment. Keeping this in mind, we have taken the initiative to manufacture pads using 80% biodegradable raw materials. This not only helps in maintaining a clean environment but also promotes sustainability.

We received financial assistance from ONGC for this project, which has enabled us to make it successful. We have also organized a series of sensitization camps, including the KAP program (Knowledge-Attitude-Practice) specially designed for school children who have started menstruating. The program aims to educate them about menstrual hygiene and management and helps them lead a healthy and dignified life.

Our organization has also designed a “Menstrual Hygiene Management Programme (MHM)” for adult women. This program aims to educate them about the importance of menstrual hygiene and management, empowering them to take control of their menstrual health. The program aims to motivate women to collect the pads at a subsidized rate or a no-profit-no-loss cost from the distribution center. This way, we ensure that every woman has access to affordable and hygienic sanitary pads. Our organization has made a significant impact on the lives of many women by providing them with livelihood support and educating them about menstrual hygiene management. We believe that by educating women and providing them with access to affordable and sustainable menstrual hygiene products, we can break the taboo surrounding menstruation and promote a healthy and empowered community.

In conclusion, our voluntary organization has taken an important initiative to manufacture low-cost sanitary pads using biodegradable materials, which not only helps the environment but also empowers women. We believe that by educating women and promoting menstrual hygiene management, we can break the taboo surrounding menstruation and promote a healthy and empowered community.

For over a decade, our organization has been dedicated to uplifting the lives of vulnerable women in Ashokenagar and the Sundarbans, two areas deeply affected by economic challenges and limited opportunities. We recognized the immense potential that lay dormant within these women and sought to harness it through tailoring training programs.

Creating Pathways to Self-Sufficiency

Since 2011, our commitment to empowering women has led us to provide comprehensive tailoring training to more than 300 women. This initiative was driven by the belief that with the right skills and opportunities, these women could transform their lives, become self-reliant, and contribute positively to their families and communities.

Entrepreneurs in the Making

The tailoring training program has been instrumental in opening doors to financial independence for these women. Through our rigorous training curriculum, they have acquired essential sewing skills, honed their craftsmanship, and gained a deep understanding of garment construction. As a result, many of them have embarked on successful journeys in the world of fashion and sewing.

Small-Scale Industry Employment

Our efforts have also paved the way for some women to secure employment in small-scale industries. The skills acquired through our training have made them valuable assets to these enterprises, offering them steady incomes and a sense of purpose.

A Transformative Impact

The impact of our tailoring training program goes beyond economic empowerment. It has instilled confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of dignity in the women we have trained. They have emerged as empowered individuals who are better equipped to meet their basic needs and support their families.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on our journey of empowering women through tailoring training, we remain committed to expanding our reach and making a lasting difference in the lives of even more vulnerable women. Our goal is to continue providing opportunities for skill development and economic independence, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the communities we serve.

In the heart of remote villages in Sundarbans, where life often unfolds in the shadow of adversity, a ray of hope and empowerment emerges through our dedicated initiatives. We believe that supporting needy mothers is pivotal in transforming not only their lives but also entire communities. Here’s a glimpse of our multifaceted approach to bring smiles and empowerment to these remarkable women:

Ration Distribution for Nourishment: We understand the significance of a nutritious diet in ensuring the well-being of families. Regular ration distribution forms a core part of our efforts, ensuring that mothers and their children have access to essential food supplies.

Project “ASHRUMOCHAN” ( Wiping Tears): In our ongoing efforts, we distribute chimneys to women in the village who use wooden chulas for cooking. These chimneys help release smoke, which can pose serious health hazards. By providing safer cooking environments, we ensure that these women no longer suffer from chest problems, ensuring their well-being.

Saree Distribution During Durga Puja: Durga Puja is a time of celebration and togetherness, and we make it special for the mothers in remote villages. We distribute new sarees, allowing them to participate in the festivities with dignity and pride.

Cultural Programs for Inclusivity: We firmly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to showcase their talents. We organize cultural programs that encourage the active participation of these mothers, fostering a sense of belonging and self-confidence.

Picnics for Celebrating Togetherness: Our picnics are not just about leisure; they symbolize unity and shared joy. Through these outings, we aim to strengthen the bond within the community, imparting the message that we are all equal. During these moments, they can forget their sadness and sorrow, living in the present with smiles on their faces.

Awareness Programs for Empowerment: Knowledge is empowerment. We conduct awareness programs on various vital topics such as health, the fragile environment in Sundarbans, domestic violence, and financial literacy. These programs equip mothers with valuable information to make informed decisions, ensuring they understand their rights and can act upon them when required.

Support for Small-Scale Livelihood Activities: We empower these mothers to explore small-scale livelihood activities such as selling saris, jewelry, honey, small kitchen garden, small poultry and other products. This initiative provides them with the means to fulfill their small desires and build financial independence, one step at a time.

Our commitment to supporting needy mothers extends beyond charity; it’s about providing opportunities for them to thrive, fostering independence, and nurturing self-esteem. We believe that when we uplift mothers, we uplift entire communities, paving the way for a brighter future for all.