Regular sanitary pad supply in Jalandhar schools after SC directive

Following the Supreme Court observation that “the right to menstrual health is a part of the right to live with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution”, states and UTs have been directed to provide free oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins to girl students.

In Jalandhar, government schools have been receiving sanitary napkins on a regular basis. Sunita Sahota, Principal of Government Senior Secondary Girls School, Ladowali Road, said the schools received the sanitary pads today. “The pads are supplied according to the strength of students,” she said.

Teachers from other government schools said sanitary pads were supplied a few months ago and these came in a huge number. Many schools were also equipped with sanitary napkin vending machines as well.

District Education Officer (DEO), Secondary, Gurinderjit Kaur confirmed that pad distribution was going on smoothly. “Separate toilet facilities for girls and boys are also available in schools,” she added.

However, it was reported that while grants were earlier provided for installing vending machines, a few schools are facing issues with machines not functioning properly. Teachers also noted that several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) had been approaching schools to offer assistance in installing or repairing vending machines.

Meanwhile, Rayat College of Law, Railmajra, organised Project Sakhi 2.0, a sanitary napkin distribution drive, through its NSS unit at slum areas near IIT Road, Ropar. The initiative aimed to promote menstrual hygiene awareness and community welfare among underprivileged women and children.

During the drive, NSS volunteers distributed sanitary napkins and biscuits to beneficiaries. Prior to the outreach activity, Dr Sohnu, Programme Officer, NSS, briefed students about the purpose, social relevance, and proper conduct required while interacting respectfully with the community.

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from volunteers, who sensitively engaged with local residents and spread awareness about hygiene, health, and menstrual well-being.