‘Meri Saheli’ vending machines help rural women adopt safe menstrual hygiene: Arya

PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / Dehradun

The Women’s Empowerment and Child Development (WECD) department minister Rekha Arya informed that the State government has assisted millions of women in rural areas in adopting safe hygiene measures through the Meri Saheli napkin vending machines and a napkin distribution scheme managed by Anganwadi workers. Arya said this while she participated in an awareness and training camp for adolescent girls and women on Thursday to mark World Menstrual Hygiene Day, during which hygiene kits were distributed to attendees.

Speaking at the event, Arya emphasised that, in Indian tradition, menstruation is recognised as a natural biological process and a foundation of women’s creative potential. She described menstruation as a sacred blessing from God, empowering women to be creators of life.

Arya said that there are many misconceptions surrounding this topic in society, highlighting the need to change social perceptions. She underscored the importance of girls maintaining a healthy diet and adopting hygienic practices during menstruation.

During the event, she distributed menstrual hygiene kits to adolescent girls and teenagers. Arya highlighted that the Modi government has made safe sanitary pads available for just Rs one at thousands of Jan Aushadhi Centres across the country.

Additionally, gynecologist Dr Niharika engaged participants in a dialogue about menstruation and related issues.

Cabinet minister Khajan Das, WECD secretary Chandresh Kumar, along with other officials, were also present at the programme.