A unique confluence of sports and health is being seen in Bihar, where the game is not limited to winning just medals or trophy. Now issues like menstruation, nutrition and mental health have also become a center of discussion for women players on the field. The partnership of Simli Sport Foundation and Bihar Sports Department is behind this change, which is touching the lives of women players deeply.
Open conversation on menstruation: Broken years of silence
Earlier, where menstruation was considered a ‘subject of shame’, now the same thing is being done openly in workshops. This initiative, which started in 2023, launched several awareness campaigns in districts like Patna, Siwan and Darbhanga. Girls above the age of 15, who were involved in these programs, shared their experiences for the first time. Surprisingly, most of the girls were using sanitary pads, but they did not have information like hemoglobin deficiency, PCOS, and ways to deal with pain. Many players considered tiredness and weakness as ‘normal’. But now, these steps taken in the right direction have turned this silence into confidence.
Changing thinking of coaches and parents
Special training for coaches and parents was conducted in 2024. Earlier, where menstruation was postponed as a ‘personal problem’, now the same issue is being discussed. The players were explained how their body changes affect the performance of the game. Coaches were also taught how the training of players during menstruation can be made more practical and cooperative.
Nutritional survey said that most girls eat three times a day, but there is a huge shortage of protein, iron and essential vitamins. This affects their body functionality and recovery. Now special attention is also being paid to these aspects.
Technology with: Increased awareness from Simli Berry
Another major step was taken in 2025-WhatsApp-based period tracker called ‘Simmpali Berry’. This tool allows players to record information such as their menstrual date, symptoms and level of pain. This helps both the coach and the doctor to understand the health of the players better.
Now, the players are adopting their routine, diet and training plan according to their physical condition. This is not only getting better performance, but has also doubled confidence. This technique gives girls a feeling of controlling themselves – that is, an empowerment experience.
Example of women empowerment in Khelo India
A new initiative was launched in Khelo India Youth Games 2025 – ‘Simmpali Periods Kyos’. This is a place where women players can understand their functionality by using various period products themselves. Also, they also get free period care kits.
There are open discussion sessions to break the myths related to menstruation. Special seminars are also organized for coaches and parents so that they can understand this change from the right point of view and support their daughters mentally and physically.
