Call for EOIs: Strengthening Menstrual Hygiene Management in India

Deadline: 02-Jun-2026

The UNICEF is inviting Expressions of Interest to conduct a comprehensive landscape analysis of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) in India. The initiative aims to assess policies, programmes, and systems while identifying gaps and improving coordination across sectors. The outcome will support evidence-based recommendations to strengthen MHM systems nationwide.

Overview of the Programme

The UNICEF India MHM Landscape Analysis Initiative 2026 focuses on strengthening menstrual hygiene systems through data-driven insights, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement.

Core Objective

To generate comprehensive evidence and actionable recommendations that improve menstrual hygiene management policies, programmes, and service delivery across India.

Key Focus Areas

1. Policy and Programme Analysis

• Review national and state-level MHM policies
• Map existing programmes and interventions

2. System Strengthening

• Identify implementation gaps
• Improve coordination across ministries

3. Monitoring and Data Systems

• Assess monitoring frameworks
• Address data gaps and inconsistencies

4. Stakeholder Engagement

• Conduct interviews with:
  • Government officials
  • Development partners
  • Community stakeholders

5. Field Research

• Visit selected states (urban and rural)
• Compare high-performing vs low-performing regions

6. Knowledge Development

• Produce evidence-based reports
• Develop actionable recommendations

Context: Menstrual Hygiene in India

Current Situation

• Large adolescent population, especially girls
• Menstruation often affected by:
  • Social stigma
  • Cultural taboos
  • Economic barriers

Progress Made

• Recognition as a public health priority
• Multi-sector involvement including:
  • Health
  • Education
  • Sanitation

Remaining Challenges

• Fragmented programme implementation
• Weak coordination across ministries
• Limited consolidated data
• Poor menstrual waste management systems

Key Concept: Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM)

Definition

MHM refers to the safe, hygienic, and dignified management of menstruation, including access to:

• Sanitary products
• Clean water and sanitation facilities
• Accurate information and education

Why MHM Matters

• Improves health and hygiene outcomes
• Enhances school attendance for girls
• Promotes gender equality and dignity

Research Methodology

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Inception Phase
   • Develop implementation plan
2. Secondary Literature Review
   • Analyze existing research and reports
3. Field Visits
   • Conduct research in selected states
   • Engage rural and urban communities
4. Stakeholder Interviews
   • National and state-level key informants
5. Consultations
   • Two rounds of national stakeholder consultations
6. Data Synthesis
   • Compile findings into structured reports

Expected Outputs

• Implementation plan
• Literature review report
• Field visit documentation
• Key informant interview reports
• National MHM overview report
• Stakeholder consultation summaries
• Final report with actionable recommendations

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

• Research organizations
• NGOs and consulting firms
• Institutions with expertise in:
  • Public health
  • WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene)
  • Gender and development

Required Experience

• Policy analysis and research
• Field-based data collection
• Stakeholder engagement and facilitation

Why This Programme Matters

Strengthens National Systems

• Improves coordination across sectors

Addresses Gender Inequality

• Promotes dignity and inclusion

Enhances Evidence-Based Policy

• Supports better decision-making

Improves Health Outcomes

• Ensures safe menstrual practices

How the Programme Works

Process Flow

1. EOI Submission
   • Organizations apply to UNICEF
2. Partner Selection
   • Based on expertise and capacity
3. Research Implementation
   • Conduct analysis and fieldwork
4. Stakeholder Engagement
   • Facilitate consultations
5. Final Reporting
   • Deliver recommendations

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Review Terms of Reference (ToR)
   • Understand scope and deliverables
2. Prepare Proposal
   Include:
   • Research methodology
   • Work plan
   • Team expertise
   • Budget
3. Align with UNICEF Priorities
   • Focus on:
     • System strengthening
     • Evidence-based recommendations
4. Submit Expression of Interest
   • Follow UNICEF guidelines
5. Prepare for Execution
   • Ensure readiness for fieldwork

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak research methodology
• Limited stakeholder engagement
• Ignoring cultural sensitivities
• Poor data analysis framework
• Lack of actionable recommendations

Pro Tips for Success

• Use mixed research methods (qualitative + quantitative)
• Engage communities meaningfully
• Focus on system-level solutions
• Ensure gender-sensitive approaches

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the purpose of this UNICEF initiative?

To analyze and strengthen menstrual hygiene management systems in India.

2. What does MHM stand for?

Menstrual Hygiene Management.

3. Who can apply?

Research organizations, NGOs, and institutions with relevant expertise.

4. What methods will be used?

Literature review, field visits, interviews, and consultations.

5. What are the expected outputs?

Reports, analysis documents, and policy recommendations.

6. Why is MHM important?

It improves health, education, and gender equality outcomes.

7. What is the final goal?

To create a stronger, coordinated national MHM system.

Conclusion

The UNICEF initiative in India represents a critical step toward strengthening menstrual hygiene systems through evidence and collaboration.

For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.