In a pivotal step toward advancing female education and health, the Yogi government has unveiled a new program to distribute sanitary pads to schoolgirls.
This initiative is likely to enhance both school attendance and overall well-being among young female students.
The government has earmarked Rs 110.316 lakh for this project, which will benefit 36,772 girls across 535 schools.
The school management committees will however manage the funds to ensure effective distribution and usage.
The program focuses on upper primary and composite schools under the PM SHRI scheme for the 2024-25 academic year, targeting girls in grades 6 to 8.
Many of these students come from rural areas with limited awareness about menstrual health and sanitary products.
The provision of these essential supplies aims to bridge this gap and address health issues that impact school attendance.
To guarantee the proper execution of this scheme and prevent misuse of resources, the Yogi government has instituted rigorous oversight measures.
Basic Education Minister (Independent Charge) Sandeep Singh has called for transparency in the procurement process.
Specific guidelines have been issued to the Assistant Finance and Accounts Officer and the District Coordinator for Girls’ Education to ensure adherence to these standards.
Meanwhile, each school will establish a dedicated committee to manage the acquisition and distribution of sanitary pads.
The committee will include the Chairman of the School Management Committee, the headmaster, a female teacher, an ICDS supervisor, and an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM).
The government spokesperson however emphasized that this initiative not only facilitates educational access for girls but also promotes greater awareness of menstrual health.
Meanwhile, the scheme is to significantly enhance regular school attendance and improve the educational outcomes for girls in the targeted classes.
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