Dignity for Women Project (DWP)

Salita Gurung, Senior Program Manager, presented the DWP’s phased approach—community engagement, implementation, advocacy, and sustainability. The project aimed to empower 4,000 women and girls with accurate menstrual information and eliminate harmful cultural practices.

Pramita Basyal, M&E Officer, presented key findings showing improvements in WASH access, nutrition, and menstrual product usage. A documentary highlighted community-level impacts.

Bajura Maternal and Neonatal Health Promotion Project

Salita Gurung and Yaman Chaudhary emphasized a community-focused approach with positive health outcomes, supported by a documentary on field activities.

Baseline-Endline Evaluation

Ram Chandra Silwal, Executive Director of Green Tara Nepal, presented evaluation results showing reduced menstrual segregation and improved hygiene. For example:

• Use of sanitary pads by mothers increased from 39% to 92%.
• Among adolescent girls, use increased from 36% to 99%.

Qualitative findings highlighted the improvement in WASH facility, lesser food restrictions, proper availability of water during menstrual period. The event highlighted the change in perception among people regarding Chaupaddi.

Community Voices and Recognition

Adolescents Seema Thapa and Pratima Khadka from Bajhang, shared their personal stories of resisting Chhaupadi tradition, reflecting the psychological toll and empowerment through education. They thanked Green Tara Nepal for providing them opportunities which their elders had denied.

Dignitaries Mr. Benzamin Seidel (German Embassy) and Dr. Radha Paudel (Radha Paudel Foundation) praised the project’s measurable community impacts.