Union Health Ministry Launches Menstrual Hygiene Policy for School Girls
15 NOV 2024
The Union Health Ministry has approved a landmark Menstrual Hygiene Policy aimed at improving menstrual hygiene among school-going girls. The policy, approved on November 2, 2024, focuses on distributing free sanitary pads to girls in classes 6 to 12 in government and residential schools across India
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The initiative ensures that menstrual hygiene kits, including biodegradable sanitary pads, are accessible to all female students in government schools. Policy aimed to change attitudes and ensure access to hygiene products
States like Delhi, Goa, and Puducherry are prioritizing separate toilets for girls in schools, enhancing privacy and hygiene. Emphasis is placed on the use of biodegradable products and safe disposal of menstrual waste.
The policy aims to integrate menstrual hygiene education within the school system to combat stigma and improve knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
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The Supreme Court, while hearing a public interest litigation on the matter, praised the initiative, highlighting its role in improving girls' mobility, freedom, and participation in daily activities. "This policy aims to mainstream menstrual hygiene within the school system of the government to bolster change in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours, among schoolgirls, overcoming the barriers of low awareness that often restrict their freedom, mobility and participation in daily activities," the affidavit, filed in the pending matter, stated.
The government also highlighted its focus on environmental responsibility. Schools will implement measures to promote the use of biodegradable products and ensure the safe disposal of menstrual waste, aligning with the Centre’s larger sustainability goals.
This policy marks a significant step towards fostering equality and ensuring that no girl is left behind in her education due to lack of menstrual hygiene resources.
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