PROJECT THINKAL
Project Thinkal is a comprehensive community-based initiative implemented by HLL Management Academy (HMA) with the objective of promoting sustainable menstrual hygiene management among women and adolescent girls, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities. The project focuses on creating comprehensive awareness about menstrual health, encouraging safe and dignified menstrual practices, and facilitating the adoption of menstrual cups (M-Cups) as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable sanitary products. By addressing social stigma, misinformation, and accessibility barriers, Thinkal empowers beneficiaries to make informed and confident choices regarding their Menstrual health.
The initiative is implemented through close collaboration with ASHA workers, local community members, government officials, medical professionals, Self-Help Groups, and Health departments. This multi-stakeholder approach ensures community trust, effective outreach, and sustainable implementation. Key activities include beneficiary identification, structured awareness sessions using printed and audio-visual materials, demonstrations on menstrual cup usage, safe distribution of M-Cups with proper guidance, personalized counseling, and interactive group discussions to strengthen acceptance and sustained usage.
A distinctive feature of Project Thinkal is the integration of a digital information system comprising mobile applications, interactive kiosks, and web portals. These platforms provide accessible menstrual health resources in local languages, enable beneficiaries to seek timely assistance, and allow the project management team of HMA to monitor progress and offer personalized support. This blended model enhances accessibility, transparency, and long-term engagement.
Continuous follow-up, systematic documentation, regular feedback collection, and impact assessment constitute the core of the project’s monitoring and evaluation framework. These mechanisms help identify challenges, address user concerns, and promote sustainable adoption of menstrual cups.
Through the use of menstrual cups by 11 lakh beneficiaries, Project Thinkal has generated significant environmental, economic, and social impact. The initiative is expecting a carbon footprint reduction of 29,150 tonnes, a reduction in sanitary waste disposal by 22,000 tonnes, and cost savings of ₹22 crore in sanitary napkin expenses. In addition to improving menstrual health awareness, the project contributes to environmental sustainability by minimizing solid waste
generation and lowering carbon emissions, while also supporting long-term financial stability for beneficiaries.
Overall, Project Thinkal empowers women and adolescent girls with awareness, confidence, and sustainable choices, enhancing their dignity, health, and overall well-being. It stands as a scalable and impactful model integrating public health, safe, hygienic, and eco-friendly option, environmental responsibility, and social empowerment.
The project also provides economic benefits by reducing recurring menstrual hygiene expenses for beneficiaries, thereby supporting long-term financial stability. Overall, Project Thinkal empowers women and adolescent girls with knowledge, confidence, and sustainable choices, enhancing their dignity, health, and overall well-being.