Gandhinagar: More than 10 lakh girls studying in Classes VI to XII in govt schools across Gujarat will receive free sanitary napkins every month after the state govt approved Rs 46.7 crore for the initiative.Under the scheme, each student will be provided oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins every month, with an annual allocation of Rs 360 per girl. According to the education department, the programme is aimed at improving menstrual hygiene and reducing school absenteeism during menstruation, particularly among girls in rural areas.An official statement said the napkins will be distributed through schools, and institutions have been instructed to create a supportive environment where girls can access the products without embarrassment. A woman teacher in every school will be appointed as the nodal teacher to supervise distribution and respond to students’ concerns.The nodal teachers will also conduct awareness sessions on menstrual hygiene, menstruation, and personal health. The initiative seeks to promote scientific understanding and dispel myths and misconceptions associated with menstruation.The education department has issued guidelines for the safe disposal of used sanitary napkins. Schools have been directed to follow the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, by ensuring that used pads are wrapped in paper, segregated from wet and dry waste, and handed over to local waste collection agencies. Schools have also been instructed to keep sanitary napkin incinerators operational and ensure their periodic maintenance.Govt said the use of oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins is expected to reduce the environmental impact of sanitary waste while promoting sustainable menstrual hygiene practices.
