Karnataka Govt relaunches Shuchi scheme to give free sanitary pads to 19 lakh school, college girls

The Karnataka government has revived its commitment to menstrual hygiene with the revival of the Shuchi scheme, which had been dormant for the past four years. This initiative aims to provide free sanitary napkins to approximately 19 lakh adolescent girls aged between 10 and 18 years in government and aided schools as well as colleges across the state.

According to officials of Karnataka Health Department, the scheme entails direct distribution of sanitary pads to schools, facilitated by school authorities. Each kit will contain 10 sanitary napkins, sufficient for one year, ensuring the girls'



access to menstrual hygiene products.

Emphasising the significance of the scheme, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasised its role in promoting the hygiene and health of girl students. The initiative comes at a crucial juncture, recognising the importance of menstrual hygiene management for the overall well-being of young girls.

Furthermore, the state government is extending its efforts beyond menstrual hygiene to improve the overall living conditions in residential facilities. This includes upgrading infrastructure and expanding entitlements for students residing in hostels.