Ahmednagar – 2025: Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK), under the ‘Rural Health and Nutrition Project’ supported by the Cummins India Foundation, organized impactful health and hygiene awareness sessions for adolescent girls in the villages of Daithane Gunjal and Nimgaon Bhogi in Ahmednagar district. A total of 113 adolescent girls actively participated in these informative and empowering sessions.

The program commenced with a warm welcome by Mr. Vilas Alhat, who introduced the session's esteemed resource person, Mrs. Anita Sonawane—a well-regarded health expert recognized for her insightful and practical guidance. The sessions focused on vital topics such as personal hygiene, menstrual health, balanced nutrition, and adolescent well-being. Mrs. Sonawane sensitively addressed the physical and emotional transitions experienced during adolescence, while also educating participants about reproductive health, contraceptive options, and the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Crucial yet often overlooked issues like sexual abuse and substance abuse were also discussed, fostering awareness, self-protection, and resilience.

This initiative empowered young girls with essential knowledge, helping them make informed decisions about their health, bodies, and futures. The interactive format encouraged open dialogue and confidence, reinforcing the importance of health education in shaping empowered and self-aware individuals.

Aligned with BGVK’s mission of holistic rural development and gender-sensitive empowerment, this program marks another step in creating healthier, more informed communities. Inspired by the success of these sessions, BGVK plans to replicate them in other villages across Ahmednagar, extending the reach and impact of health education among rural adolescent girls.