South Gujarat is battling one of its worst monsoon spells after Umbergaon in Valsad recorded an extraordinary 1,100 mm of rainfall in just 16 hours, triggering widespread flooding across Valsad, Surat and Navsari. Overflowing rivers, submerged roads, flooded homes and stranded residents have prompted a large-scale rescue operation. More than 2,200 people have been evacuated in Surat, while over 500 residents have been shifted to shelters in Valsad. The Indian Army, NDRF and SDRF have been deployed to assist rescue and relief efforts. 

This Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, let’s celebrate the period warriors championing dignity through their tireless efforts. Pad Squad, an inspiring NGO, has been distributing sanitary pads and menstrual cups across India. According to NFHS-5 (National Family Health Survey-5), 36 per cent of women still don’t use sanitary napkins. From jungles to tribal belts — Padsquad carries pads and menstrual cups where it’s needed the most. These changemakers are on a mission for change — one pad at a time.