Prachi Kaushik, Founder and Director of Vyomini Social Enterprise, Honored with the prestigious Rex Karmaveer Global Fellowship & Karamveer Chakra Award for her work in promoting sustainable sanitation, hygiene practices, and entrepreneurship at a vibrant ceremony held at The Shri Ram Millennium School in Noida. Recognized for her pioneering contributions to menstrual health and hygiene management, Prachi's efforts have touched the lives of millions, redefining social impact and empowering women across India.
The award is instituted by iCONGO in partnership with United Nations (UN). The Rex Karmaveer Chakra Awards celebrate real-life heroes who embody the spirit of 'Be the Change.' These awards spotlight individuals who take bold, innovative paths to inspire and bring about meaningful change.
From breaking societal norms by rejecting an early marriage at 16 to founding Vyomini, Prachi’s life journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and vision. Through Vyomini, she has trained over 5,000 women under various entrepreneurship development programs and created sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions that have reached over 20 lakh women through awareness campaigns and workshops across 20 states."
Under her leadership, Vyomini has achieved remarkable milestones, including:
- Establishing 10 incubation centers for rural entrepreneurs.
- Training women in manufacturing essential hygiene products like sanitary pads, vending machines, and incinerators.
- Conducting over 550 workshops for marginalized communities, including youth, released prisoners, and transgender individuals.
- Transforming menstruation into an opportunity for entrepreneurship by creating local ecosystems for production and distribution.
Speaking at the occasion, Prachi Kaushik, Founder and Director of Vyomini Social Enterprise, said, “Menstrual health isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about dignity, empowerment, and human rights, The journey began with a single step, but today, Vyomini stands as a movement to advocate for women-led development. I envision a future where every woman has access to not only safe hygiene practices but also the tools to build a better life for herself and her community.”
She has revolutionized menstrual hygiene through innovative approaches and has also reached the last mile. With Project Naritav, she helps women make their own pads. Prachi believes it's not just about donating pads, but also about investing in pads. This unique concept enables women to locally produce pads while generating income."
Prachi envisions a world that transcends caste, religion, and gender barriers, focusing solely on equality and humanity. Her goal is to establish one incubation center in every district of India, making it easier for women to enhance their skills and build entrepreneurial careers.
Reflecting on her journey, she adds, "I want to leave behind a legacy of equal opportunities. Every woman, regardless of her background, deserves a chance to shine. My work isn’t just about building businesses—it’s about building lives.”
Her transformational contributions to menstrual health, combined with her tireless advocacy for women’s rights, have positioned her as a thought leader on development issues.
Prachi Kaushik’s recognition at the Rex Karmaveer Chakra Awards is a moment of pride not only for her but for all who believe in the power of grassroots leadership to drive systemic change.
