A philanthropist, women’s rights activist and a pillar of the community. Words fall short when it comes to describing the sheer magnitude of Sunanda Tai Pawar’s contributions to society.
Through multiple opportunities, Sunanda Tai Pawar has worked on providing employment, raising awareness about menstrual hygiene and women’s health, and empowering young women in rural Maharashtra. Her vision and commitment are admirable, and we stand awed in the face of this amazing woman leader.
This Human Rights Day, The Channel 46 had the incredible opportunity to speak to Sunanda Tai Pawar about her achievements, projects and advice to young women today.
1. When did you realise the need for menstrual hygiene and education in rural Maharashtra?
While serving as the secretary at the Agricultural Development Trust, my visits to villages around Baramati unveiled a pressing need for menstrual hygiene education among rural women. Witnessing the critical state of many women due to the unavailability of affordable sanitary pads, I took it upon myself to address this issue. We initiated educational sessions and, with the collective efforts of my team, successfully developed and produced cost-effective sanitary napkins. These are now accessible to women and girls in rural areas at minimal prices.
2. Could you tell us a little bit about Sobati?
During routine village visits, I recognized the gap in menstrual hygiene despite the availability of sanitary pads, which often remained unaffordable. To bridge this gap, I launched ‘Sobati,’ a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable sanitary pad.
3. You have made significant overtures to ensure that women in rural Maharashtra get better healthcare. Please share some of your proudest moments.
Through Sobati, our efforts extend beyond menstrual hygiene education. We engage with young girls from elementary to graduation levels, addressing a range of health topics. The impact of our sessions is evident as girls express gratitude for the valuable insights. By establishing a warm connection with these girls, we not only educate them on health but also provide guidance for their career choices, striving for holistic development.
4. With your years of experience in the development sector, what do you believe should be the next point of focus for the betterment of girls and women in rural Maharashtra?
Given the alarming rise in breast cancer cases among women, it is imperative to shift focus towards promoting overall health awareness. Poor lifestyle choices contribute to this increase, and there has been a significant rise in mortality rates for breast cancer patients. I urge women to prioritise their health, adopt healthier lifestyles, and make necessary changes to their diets.
5. What advice would you like to give the young women reading this article on Human Rights Day?
On Human Rights Day, my advice to young women is to embody kindness in their daily lives, recognizing the power of small acts to create positive change. Prioritise well-being by taking charge of your physical and mental health through regular check-ups and a balanced lifestyle. Additionally, leverage your skills and knowledge to empower others, particularly in underserved communities. Remember, every action, no matter how small, contributes to a world where the rights of all individuals are upheld, fostering a more just and equitable society.
A leader who constantly takes initiative, Sunanda Tai Pawar inspires one to do better and be better. This Human Rights Day, let’s all pledge to do our best to make this world a better place.
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