Delay mars installation of sanitary pad vending machines in 1,408 J&K schools

Srinagar, Aug 27:  In a setback to the government’s efforts to enhance menstrual hygiene and reduce school dropout rates among girls, the installation of sanitary pad vending and incinerator machines in 1,408 government schools across Jammu and Kashmir has been delayed. Originally set for completion by June, the project now faces a revised deadline of September, according to officials.The initiative, part of the centrally sponsored Samagra Shiksha scheme, aims to provide female students with easy access to menstrual hygiene products and foster a more supportive environment. Menstrual hygiene remains a major challenge in many parts of India, especially in rural and remote areas where access to sanitary products is limited. Many adolescent girls miss school due to inadequate sanitation facilities and the social stigma surrounding menstruation.According to a UNICEF survey, 85 percent of girls in India use cloth instead of sanitary napkins, often due to lack of access and awareness. In J&K, nearly 60 percent of women still use cloth, and only 50.5 percent of women aged 15-24 use sanitary napkins, as per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). Recognising these challenges, the Union Ministry of Education (MoE) in 2023 approved the installation of sanitary pad vending and incinerator machines in over 1,000 government schools across the region. The initiative aimed to ensure hygienic menstrual management and reduce the stigma that often pushes young girls to drop out of school. Notably, in 2024, the Samagra Shiksha Department installed vending machines in 901 schools, including 74 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs). Building on this progress, the plan was to extend the facility to 1,408 additional schools by June this year. However, officials said procedural delays have hindered the timely rollout.”The delay was due to the cancellation of bidding. Fresh tenders will be floated, and if all goes smoothly, the project will be completed by the end of September,” a senior official from the Samagra Shiksha Department told Rising Kashmir, requesting anonymity.According to the official, the department plans to carry out the installation in phases, prioritizing schools with higher enrolments of female students. “Both urban and rural schools will be covered to ensure no girl is deprived of facilities due to her location,” the official added. To further support this initiative, Chief Education Officers (CEOs) have been instructed to implement comprehensive menstrual hygiene programs across schools. These programs will include awareness sessions, discussions on menstrual health, and training for teachers and staff to create a more informed and supportive environment for students. “By educating young girls about menstrual hygiene, we can help normalize conversations around menstruation and ensure that no girl feels ashamed or isolated due to a natural biological process,” the official said. As officials work toward the revised September deadline, many hope the initiative will empower girls to attend school confidently and without stigma.