Kathmandu. Renowned entrepreneur and former Miss India, Ritu Singh Vaidya, has been appointed as the Goodwill Ambassador for Dignified Menstruation. The appointment was made by the Global South Coalition for Dignified Menstruation (GSCDM), a global network working to establish menstruation as a matter of human rights, dignity, and gender equality, particularly in the Global South.
Ritu Singh Vaidya is not only a beauty pageant titleholder but also a prominent figure in women’s empowerment and inclusive leadership. She currently serves as the President of NAEMUN and is an active member of SARC Tank Nepal. The appointment was made in mutual agreement between Radhapoudel Foundation (the secretariat of GSCDM) and Vaidya, in recognition of her commitment and leadership.
According to campaign founder and coordinator Dr. Radhika Poudel, this appointment is expected to elevate the Dignified Menstruation movement to a global political and social discourse.
Why Ritu Singh Vaidya?
Ritu Singh Vaidya is not just a former Miss India – she represents a powerful voice in international women’s leadership. Winning Miss India was just the beginning of her journey. Over the decades, she has been actively involved in diverse initiatives related to women’s empowerment, social responsibility, and inclusive development. Her strong voice, clear stance on social justice, and international outreach make her an ideal advocate to amplify this campaign on a global scale.
Following her appointment, Vaidya stated, “This is not just an honor – it is a profound responsibility. I am fully committed to ensuring the dignity and human rights of every menstruating individual.”
Role as Goodwill Ambassador
As a public representative of the Dignified Menstruation movement, Vaidya will lead and amplify messages through various formal and informal platforms. She will play a key leadership role in making the upcoming International Dignified Menstruation Day (December 8) and the Global Learning Conference a global success.
Dr. Radhika Poudel emphasized that Vaidya’s influential presence will give the campaign the momentum of a global movement.
“Her role will help frame menstrual discrimination as a human rights and gender-based violence issue,” said Dr. Poudel.
Despite progress, menstruation is still viewed with shame, fear, and stigma in many parts of the world, including Nepal. GSCDM stresses that menstruation is not just a five-day biological process; it is intrinsically linked to one’s physical, mental, social, and political well-being.
What is Dignified Menstruation?
Dignified Menstruation (DM) means that no one should have to endure shame, violence, discrimination, or humiliation due to menstruation. It advocates for the assurance of dignity, freedom, and rights for all menstruating individuals.
Currently, GSCDM has more than 65 member organizations across countries including Nepal, Nigeria, the United States, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka, with its headquarters based in Nepal.
With the appointment of Ritu Singh Vaidya, the campaign has gained renewed energy, global credibility, and a stronger international presence.
