In a significant stride toward enhancing menstrual hygiene among schoolgirls, the Karnataka government has announced an impactful decision. A budget of 513.5 million INR has been sanctioned for the purchase and distribution of sanitary napkins and menstrual cups during the fiscal year 2025-26. This pivotal initiative will be implemented under the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Karnataka.
According to official directives, the procurement of sanitary napkins will be conducted through the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Limited. These pads will be distributed among girls studying in government and grant-aided schools, colleges, and hostels. The plan will effectively cover both rural and urban areas, benefiting approximately 1.964 million schoolgirls from classes 6 to 10 and at the pre-university level.
The core objective of this initiative is to promote menstrual hygiene and overall health among the girls, ensuring regular school attendance without hampering their education. Initially, a budget of 718.3 million INR was proposed, out of which 513.5 million INR has been approved for procurement.
Implementation Year:
2025-26
Initial Budget:
71.83 crore INR
Approved Budget:
51.35 crore INR
Beneficiaries:
Approximately 19.64 lakh girls
Additionally, for handling emergency needs at the district level, an extra fund of 100 million INR has been sanctioned to ensure essential supplies for up to three months.
The Karnataka government regards this initiative as a significant step towards improving both health and education for girls. The state has previously launched numerous schemes for students' welfare. With this new plan, the government aims to normalize menstrual hygiene and reduce gender-based educational barriers. Officials believe this will enhance awareness among girls, aiding them to continue their studies uninterrupted.
The initiative reflects a progressive move towards creating a supportive learning environment, where health and education go hand in hand, forging a path for the empowerment of young girls across Karnataka.
