Disha Nischal, a student at Prometheus School, Noida, is on a mission to make the world a better place. Recognizing the environmental crisis caused by burning millions of tons of barley straw each year, she launched a groundbreaking initiative to transform this agricultural waste into biodegradable sanitary napkins. This innovation not only provides a sustainable solution to air pollution and environmental degradation but also aligns with India’s goals for reducing carbon emissions.

Disha's project is more than just an environmental initiative; it directly tackles the critical issue of menstrual hygiene in rural India, where access to affordable sanitary products is severely limited. Many women in these areas are forced to use unsafe alternatives due to high costs or lack of availability, putting their health at risk. By repurposing barley straw to create eco-friendly and affordable sanitary napkins, Disha's initiative empowers women in rural communities to manage their menstrual health safely and with dignity.