Argus News - Odisha Mandates Free Sanitary Napkins, Hygiene Corners for Schools

Bhubaneswar, Apr 7: The Odisha government has announced a comprehensive set of directives aimed at strengthening sanitation and menstrual hygiene management across schools in the state. The initiative seeks to create a safe, inclusive, and equitable learning environment for all students, with particular emphasis on the needs of adolescent girls and children with disabilities. According to the Ministry of School and Mass Education, district collectors have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of hygiene facilities in both government and private schools. This includes separate toilets for boys and girls, uninterrupted water supply, and proper handwashing arrangements. Special provisions are also mandated for differently-abled students, with a focus on accessibility and privacy. Also read: Govt Allows Gulf Airlines to Carry Cargo in Passenger Planes to Keep Supply Chains Going A key highlight of the policy is the distribution of free sanitary napkins to girl students. These will be made available through vending machines or designated distribution centres within schools, ensuring convenience and safety. Additionally, schools are required to establish Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Corners, which will serve as dedicated spaces for information, counselling, and support related to menstrual health. The government has emphasized that sanitation and hygiene are not merely infrastructural issues but integral to student safety, dignity, and mental well-being. By mandating separate facilities and accessible infrastructure, the policy aims to reduce absenteeism among girls during menstruation and foster a more supportive educational environment. Officials highlighted that the initiative also aligns with broader efforts to improve mental health and safety in schools. By ensuring clean facilities, accessible sanitation, and menstrual hygiene support, the government hopes to empower students and reduce stigma around menstruation. The Odisha government has made clear that compliance will be closely monitored, and schools failing to implement the measures will face strict action. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx