Delhi CM Rekha Gupta pushes menstrual hygiene drive in government schools
Rekha Gupta asked Delhi government school principals to improve menstrual hygiene facilities and student support. The push links sanitation, health awareness and attendance, alongside HPV outreach and free bicycles for girls.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday directed government school principals to improve menstrual hygiene facilities in schools and create a safer, more supportive environment for girl students. Speaking during a virtual meeting held on World Menstrual Hygiene Day, she directed principals to ensure clean toilets, fully functional medical rooms and proper maintenance of sanitary pad vending machines across schools in the capital.
According to news agency PTI, the meeting was attended by Education Minister Ashish Sood, Director of Education Vedita Reddy and senior officials of the education department.
The chief minister stressed that menstruation should be treated as a normal biological process and said girls must feel comfortable discussing their health concerns without fear or shame.
"The government aims to create an environment where girls can continue their education without fear, shame or discomfort," Gupta said.
FOCUS ON SCHOOL FACILITIES
During the meeting, she raised concerns over complaints related to poor sanitation and damaged infrastructure in some government schools. She instructed officials to ensure regular cleaning of toilets and immediate repairs of broken doors and other facilities used by students.
The chief minister also ordered regular checks of sanitary pad vending machines installed in schools, government offices, public toilets and Arogya Mandirs under the government's "Menstrual Health Matters" campaign.
Officials were told to ensure the machines remain functional and adequately stocked at all times.
Rekha Gupta said the government would also make quality biodegradable sanitary pads available for girls across Delhi. She noted that many adolescent girls face physical discomfort during menstruation, which can affect their attendance and studies.
The chief minister asked school principals to build an atmosphere where students can speak openly and receive emotional support whenever needed.
HPV VACCINE AWARENESS PUSH
The chief minister also urged parents to consider HPV vaccination for their daughters and asked principals to spread awareness about the vaccine among families.
At the same time, she stressed that parental consent must be taken before any student receives the vaccine. The chief minister said girls should also be educated about health issues such as anaemia, PCOS and cervical cancer through awareness sessions at Arogya Mandirs and schools.
The government plans to strengthen menstrual health education for students from Classes 6 to 9 as part of the larger campaign. Awareness drives will also be carried out through ASHA and anganwadi workers in different parts of the city.
FREE BICYCLES FOR GIRL STUDENTS
She also announced that the Delhi government would distribute free bicycles to girls after schools reopen following the summer vacation. The move is expected to benefit students who travel long distances to attend classes.
Education Minister Ashish Sood said menstrual health was connected not only to healthcare but also to dignity, awareness and confidence among students. He said schools must become safe and sensitive spaces where students feel supported during difficult situations.
He added that the Delhi government remained committed to strengthening menstrual hygiene awareness and improving support systems in schools.