Women’s hostels to get sanitary napkin vending machines

Soon sanitary napkin vending machines and ecofriendly incinerators for disposal of the used pads will be installed on the premises of girls and women hostels in all universities and colleges.

The move is aimed at promoting menstrual hygiene among women and adolescent girls as well as a step towards accomplishing Swachh Bharat Mission.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) suggested the name of HLL Lifecare Limited, a government of India public sector enterprise under administrative control of ministry of health and family welfare for installing the machines.

The estimated cost for one set of machinery is ₹ 49.646 that will be directly linked to the Solid Waste Management component of the Swachh Bharat Mission.

An official said it was observed that in view of social taboo associated with sanitary napkins, a majority of girls and women feel embarrassed and hesitate to go to conventional stores to buy the pads leading to unsafe practices.

“These vending machines will ensure an effective and convenient mode for any time access to the sanitary napkins. The purpose is to promote safe and hygienic sanitary practices among the women and girls,” the official added.

In a letter to all head of institutes, the University Granta Commission asked the institutions to approach the Ministry of Urban Development.

It also said that it was imperative to promote menstrual sanitation and proper disposal of menstrual waste by creating awareness, encouraging every woman to use eco-friendly incinerators and promoting research for a biodegradable alternative.

These vending machines will ensure an effective and convenient mode for any time access to the sanitary napkins. The purpose is to promote safe and hygienic sanitary practices among the women and girls AN OFFICIAL , of UGC