Free sanitary napkin scheme implemented

Chennai, Nov 3: In a move aimed at ensuring menstrual hygiene of rural girls and women, the Tamil Nadu government today (Nov 3) announced implementation of a free sanitary napkins scheme, claimed to the 'first-of-its-kind" initiative in the country, at a cost of Rs 44.21 crore.

The scheme would also cover women prisoners, a state government release here said adding the initiative was part of Chief Minister Jayalalithaa"s efforts to ensure women"s welfare.

Health Minister Dr V S Vijay had announced the scheme in the state Assembly recently, under which young women will be provided 18 bags of six sanitary napkins each every year.

The release said teachers in government schools would supply the napkins to girl students while the services of rural nurses and anganwadi employees will also be utilised.

Women prisoners will be supplied napkins once in two months, it said. Directions have been issued for environment-friendly disposal of used napkins.

Besides, periodic assessment of women and girls" health would be made and a registry of it maintained.

Women will be provided iron tablets every week to prevent anemia, the release said adding a committee, comprising officials of Health, Social Welfare and School Education Departments will monitor implementation of the scheme.

“This is a first-of-its kind initiative in India which will cost Rs 44.21 crore annually," the release said.

PTI