SRINAGAR: To dispel stigmas and misconceptions surrounding menstruation, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has granted approval for the installation of sanitary pad vending and incinerator machines in more than 1000 government schools in Jammu and Kashmir.
Under the centrally sponsored Samagra Shiksha scheme, officials have indicated that they will commence the installation and commissioning of ‘Sanitary Pad Vending Machines and Incinerator Machines’ in 1025 designated schools in J&K. This initiative was previously approved under the Samagra Shiksha scheme.
In an official communication to the Chief Education Officers (CEOs) of Jammu and Kashmir, Samagra officials said, “At least 1025 government schools, including 74 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) and 951 High and Higher Secondary schools, were approved by MoE for the installation of Sanitary Pad Vending Machines and Incinerator Machines in designated schools of J&K approved as a spill-over under Samagra Shiksha.”
The relevant authorities are expected to commence the installation and commissioning of incinerators in the coming days.
A study revealed that in India, only 12 percent of women use sanitary napkins. It was observed that 20 percent of girls refrained from using the school toilet during menstruation due to a fear of staining it, and many girls had no prior knowledge about menstruation when they began their periods. Among those who had some awareness, only 16 percent received information about menstruation in school.
Officials from Samagra Shiksha Jammu and Kashmir have, accordingly, requested the CEOs to instruct the Heads of the designated schools to determine a suitable position and location for mounting the equipment within the school premises, along with ensuring the availability of a 6Amp AC socket, preferably with uninterrupted power supply.
For schools where electrical fittings are unavailable, the expenses incurred on installation will be covered from the school’s electric fund and Annual School Grant. (KNO)
