Install sanitary pad machines, says UGC

Hyderabad: The UGC has directed all universities to install Sanitary Napkin Vending Machines and incinerators on the premises of girls and women’s hostels as part of the Swachh Bharath Mission. 

 In an effort to promote proper disposal of menstrual waste, the UGC has directed all universities to encourage women to use eco-friendly incinerators and to promote research for a biodegradable alternative as improper disposal of napkins damages ecology.

A Central public sector unit has introduced ‘Sanitary Napkin Vending Machines and incinerators’. 

The estimated cost of the machinery is Rs 49,646 and the expenditure to install the machinery can be directly booked under the Solid Waste Management component of the Swachh Bharat Mission, the notice read.

Professor G. Nagamallika of the English and Foreign Languages University said, ''This idea of installation of Sanitary Napkin Vending Machines and Incinerators within the premises of Women's Hostels as part of Swatch Bharath Mission is good provided it's maintained properly but it also depends on the quality of napkins the vending machines will provide." 

She adds, ''Especially we are not sure of the menstrual hygiene habits of lower cadre employees. There should be regular training and the napkins should be of good quality."

UoH hosteller Shirin Saif said, "'It is a very helpful step as sometimes we get periods unexpectedly.