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Karnataka Boosts Girls' Health With Free Cups & Pads
6 Feb
Summary
- Karnataka will provide free sanitary napkins and menstrual cups to over 19 lakh students.
- The initiative, approved for the 2025-26 financial year, targets government and aided schools.
- A total of Rs 51.35 crore allocated for procurement, with Rs 10 crore for district-level purchases.
Karnataka's government has given the green light for a significant initiative to enhance menstrual hygiene among girl students across the state. Under the Health and Family Welfare Department, the plan for the 2025-26 financial year includes the procurement and distribution of sanitary napkins and menstrual cups.
The approval, formalized through official orders on December 19, 2025, and January 3, 2026, earmarks Rs 51.35 crore for sanitary napkin procurement via the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Limited. These supplies will reach government and aided educational institutions in both rural and urban areas.
This program is set to benefit approximately 19.64 lakh girls from Class 6 up to the pre-university level. The government highlighted the initiative's role in promoting menstrual hygiene, ensuring consistent school attendance, and fostering the overall well-being of adolescent girls.
Further financial support includes Rs 10 crore sanctioned for district-level purchases, intended to meet immediate needs over a three-month period. The Cabinet has provided all necessary administrative and financial clearances, underscoring the program's importance.
