Anita Roy Mitra

Indian social entrepreneur who revolutionized menstrual health through affordable biodegradable products

Anita Roy Mitra (b. 1982) transformed menstrual hygiene in India by creating low-cost eco-friendly solutions. After witnessing the health impacts of improper sanitation during her public health studies at Tata Institute of Social Sciences, she founded Purvi Health in 2003. Her flagship product, the "EcoPad", uses locally sourced banana fiber and costs 70% less than commercial pads. Through partnerships with NGOs and government programs, her enterprise has distributed over 50 million pads across 18 states by 2022. Her 2016 documentary "Everywoman's Journey" sparked national conversations about menstrual equity. Recognized by Forbes India's "30 Under 30" in 2017, her work has reduced school dropout rates among girls in rural areas by 40% in target regions. She recently launched a line of compostable menstrual cups made from cornstarch, further expanding access to sustainable hygiene options.