New Delhi, May 22, 2026:
Marking World Menstrual Hygiene Week 2026, the National Commission for Women in collaboration with SHEWings Foundation organised a national dialogue on menstrual health and women’s well-being at the NCW Auditorium in New Delhi, highlighting the urgent need for dignity, awareness, and accessible healthcare for women across India.
A major highlight of the programme was the launch of the “Cancer Screening on Wheels” initiative — a mobile healthcare bus aimed at delivering preventive screening and awareness services directly to women, especially in underserved and remote communities. The initiative focuses on early detection of cervical cancer, breast cancer, and other women-related health concerns.
The screening bus was inaugurated by Savitri Thakur, Vijaya Rahatkar, Shikha Gupta, and Madan Mohit Bhardwaj.
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Savitri Thakur stressed the importance of healthcare access and menstrual awareness for every woman and girl, stating that breaking the silence around menstruation is essential for building a healthier and empowered society. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar emphasised that menstruation should be treated with dignity and openness, encouraging society to move “from silence to awareness and from stigma to dignity.”
Founder of SHEWings Foundation Madan Mohit Bhardwaj described the mobile screening initiative as a significant step toward grassroots healthcare accessibility, ensuring women receive awareness, screening, and preventive care at their doorstep.
The event brought together healthcare experts, educators, social leaders, and youth participants for discussions on menstrual hygiene, PCOS, hormonal health, nutrition, emotional well-being, preventive healthcare, and cancer awareness. An interactive session also encouraged open conversations around menstrual myths, taboos, and healthcare accessibility.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge to build a healthier, inclusive, and stigma-free society under the campaign theme #PeriodFriendlyWorldby2030.
