Provide sanitary pads, restroom breaks to female students during board exams: Education ministry to schools

NEW DELHI: The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) of the ministry of education has announced a series of measures aimed at supporting female students during the Class 10, 12 board exams. All Class 10 and Class 12 board examination centres are mandated to have sanitary pads readily available, ensuring that female students have access to essential hygiene products when needed during exams.

Also, the female students will be allowed the necessary restroom breaks to manage their menstrual needs. This policy is designed to alleviate discomfort and help students maintain their focus during exams.

Recognising the challenges faced by girls, the school education department has issued this advisory to all schools across states and union territories, including the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS).

Menstrual hygiene management is crucial for the overall well-being of female students and should not impede their academic performance. So, education ministry is prioritising menstrual hygiene management in schools, particularly during critical examination periods.

Furthermore, the school education and literacy department is advocating for sensitization and awareness programmes. These educational initiatives, to be implemented by states, union territories, and autonomous bodies, aim to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene among students, teachers, and staff. The goal is to reduce stigma and create a more supportive school environment.

DoSEL underscores the importance of treating female students with dignity and respect regarding their menstrual needs by addressing menstrual hygiene concerns.