Tarshi is a registered NGO based in New Delhi and has been running a helpline on sexuality, sexual and reproductive health since 1996. The helpline provides counseling, information and referrals. The helpline also provides confidentiality and anonymity to all callers. “The helpline is temporarily out of service and we’ll keep you posted on when it resumes so watch out for this space!”
Tarshi also conducts trainings and institutes for a varied audience ranging from young people to NGO professionals on issues of sexuality, sexual health and rights. Tarshi also provides trainings on burn–out prevention, how to set up a helpline and on counseling skills. Tarshi has also been involved in facilitating trainings and workshops on issues of disability and sexuality since 2002.
Because most written information on sexuality is either too clinical or sensational, Tarshi attempts to bridge the gap by developing publications that are simple and easy to read. TARSHI publishes a magazine, several reports and papers (on a variety of issues), publications on sexuality education and training materials. Published in English and Hindi, they are meant for a diverse audience which includes young people, adults and professionals working in the fields of health, education, gender and rights. Some of Tarshi’s publications have been translated in Indian regional languages as well as in Khmer and Vietnamese.
Tarshi also believes in participating in public awareness and education initiatives, and provides technical support for advocacy initiatives. Tarshi is part of several advocacy campaigns and coalitions such as on Voices Against 377, campaign on sexuality education, Action Plus etc. Tarshi also hosts The South and Southeast Asia Resource Centre on Sexuality since 2003.
The Tarshi website provides comprehensive resources on sexuality through an FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section, information about other organizations and networks in the South and Southeast Asia region on sexuality and information on diverse helplines across India on issues such as mental health, suicide prevention, sexual and reproductive health etc. The online resources section of our website has a collection of resources including declarations and conventions, guides and reports, journals, newsletters and sexuality weblinks. Tarshi also provides weekly updates on news on sexuality in the region and announcements on conferences and trainings on sexuality across the region.
One of the recent initiatives of Tarshi has been for working towards highlighting the significance of sexuality education for young people and to this end Tarshi, along with other organizations is circulating an open letter listing the significance of introducing sexuality education for young people and welcomes each and every person to be part of this initiative!
Please read more about Tarshi at www.tarshi.net
