FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Aba Dhukka?

Aba Dhukka (“अब ढुक्क”) is a pioneering girls and women-led social enterprise initiative based in Nepal. It focuses on producing eco-friendly, biodegradable sanitary pads that are safe for both users and the environment. Beyond manufacturing, Aba Dhukka promotes menstrual health education and empowers women economically and digitally by integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain. This holistic approach helps break menstrual taboos, improve health outcomes, and create sustainable livelihoods for women in rural and marginalized communities.

2. What does “Aba Dhukka” mean?

The phrase “Aba Dhukka” translates to “Now, Relief” in Nepali. It symbolizes a transformative shift toward dignity, comfort, and improved health for menstruating individuals in Nepal. The name reflects the enterprise’s mission to provide reliable and safe menstrual hygiene solutions, ending the discomfort and stigma historically associated with menstruation.

3. What makes Aba Dhukka sanitary pads unique?

Aba Dhukka pads stand out because they are:

Innovative: Integrated with digital tracking and quality assurance via blockchain technology.

Biodegradable: Made from natural, plant-based fibers that decompose naturally, minimizing environmental pollution.

Chemical-free: Manufactured without harmful chemicals, ensuring safety and comfort for users.

Locally produced: Crafted by women from local communities, supporting economic empowerment and reducing dependency on costly imports.

4. Who produces Aba Dhukka pads?

The pads are produced by local girls and women, including marginalized groups such as women with disabilities. This community-based production model creates jobs, builds skills, and fosters women’s economic independence at the grassroots level.

5. Is Aba Dhukka only about sanitary pads?

No. In addition to providing pads, Aba Dhukka includes:

  • Dhukka Didi: an AI chatbot that answers questions on menstrual health and hygiene.
  • Blockchain tracking: for supply chain transparency and impact verification and period chart digitization.
  • Menstrual education: Training, workshops and school outreach programs.

6. What is Dhukka Didi?

Dhukka Didi is a friendly, AI-powered virtual assistant designed to guide users on menstrual hygiene, dispel myths, and connect individuals to relevant services. It helps increase digital literacy while providing accessible health information.

7. How does Aba Dhukka use blockchain?

We use blockchain to track distribution, validate impact, and ensure accountability and supply chains. Also prepare digitalization period chart in collaboration with Selfie with Daughter Foundation, India.

8. Who can use Aba Dhukka products and services?

Aba Dhukka’s products and educational services are designed primarily for girls and women, especially those in rural and underserved communities. Schools, NGOs, INGOs, and public health institutions also benefit from these services. The initiative plans to expand across South Asia.

9. Are your pads safe and hygienic?

Yes. The pads are sterilized, chemical-free, rigorously tested for comfort and absorbency, and comply with quality and safety standards.

10. Where can I buy Aba Dhukka pads?

Pads are available through our community centers, partner organizations, and online platforms, they are available through:

•         Local women-led micro-franchises

•         Partner NGOs and schools

•         Selected pharmacies and cooperatives

 (to be listed on the official website soon).

11. How do you empower women economically?

  • Train women to manufacture and sell pads.
  • Create jobs in production and distribution.
  • Reinvest profits into community programs.

12. Why focus on menstrual education?

Because stigma and misinformation cause approximately 70% of Nepali girls to miss school during menstruation. Education helps break these taboos, promotes health, and keeps girls in classrooms, improving their long-term prospects.

13. How is Aba Dhukka funded?

Aba Dhukka is supported through a mix of donations, grants, and revenue from social enterprise activities. It also welcomes Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnerships and collaborations.

14. How can I support or partner with Aba Dhukka?

You can support us by:

  • Donating funds or materials
  • Becoming a volunteer or ambassador
  • Partnering as an INGOs, NGOs, school, or government agency
  • Promoting awareness on social media

15. Is Aba Dhukka active outside of Nepal?

Currently, our focus is on Nepal, especially rural and marginalized communities. However, we welcome international collaborations and interest in replicating the model in South Asia. Our sister concern, the Nepal Internet Foundation, in association with Selfie with Daughter Foundation, and the India Internet Foundation will collaborate for this initiative.

16. Why is menstrual health important?

Menstrual health is critical for gender equality, education, digital inclusion, and economic empowerment. It helps dismantle harmful taboos, promotes dignity, and opens opportunities for girls and women.

17. How is this different from other pad companies?

Unlike commercial pad brands, Aba Dhukka is mission-driven, community-led, and incorporates sustainability and transparency through digital innovations.

18. Partner and supporting organization?

Aba Dhukka’s mission is powered through strategic collaborations with these esteemed partners:

Core Implementation Partners

  1. Women Entrepreneurs Association of Nepal (WEAN)
    1. Role: Provides local women entrepreneurs for pad production and distribution
  2. SWEAT
  3. Selfie with Daughter Foundation (India)
    1. Role: Technical partner for blockchain-based period tracking system
  4. Nepal Internet Foundation
    1. Role: Digital infrastructure support for Dhukka Didi AI chatbot, Blockchain Technologies

Institutional Supporters

  • Ministry of Women, Children & Senior Citizens (Nepal)
    • Role: Policy advocacy for menstrual health education

Technology & Innovation Partners

  • Techrida Inc. Private Limited
    • Role: Technical solutions, integration and Implementation for AI and Blockchain technologies.
  • India Internet Foundation
    • Role: Cross-border knowledge sharing on tech solutions, South Asia expansion roadmap development

Community Network Partners

  • Rural Municipality Health Centers
    • Role: Last-mile distribution and health education, 15 municipalities across 3 provinces

19. How do I contact Aba Dhukka?

You can reach us via:

  • Website: www.abadhukka.com.np
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Social Media: @AbaDhukka, #abadhukka
  • Or visit our nearest community center.
Open Modal