Government's resource kit on adolescence receives acclaim

Same-sex relationships are a criminal offence in India and are perceived to be "unnatural" and "a stigma".

However, resource kit says that it's natural to "feel attachment for a friend or a person of the opposite or same sex."

This approach has been praised by experts who feel that given the vulnerability adolescents feel in relationships, any effort to guide them is very helpful.

The resource kit demolished traditional notions menstruation is associated with in India. Many still consider menstruating girls unclean and banish them from the kitchen and places of prayer.

It states categorically that "menstruation" is not 'unclean' or 'polluting' and girls can and should continue to live their daily lives including cooking, playing outdoor games, schooling without being ashamed while ensuring they consume extra nutrition.

In a refreshing change, Health Ministry's kit breaks down stereotypes that the young are often weighed down by.

It normalizes boys crying and dismisses expectations of being 'strong' and 'macho' and says boys can be shy and soft-spoken.

Similarly, girls can be outspoken and dress like boys; the kit cautions against labels like 'sissy' or 'tomboyish' being attached to those who don't fit gender-stereotypes.