Girls Now Get Free Sanitary Pads and Restroom Breaks During Board Exams: Ministry of Education

On Thursday, the Union education ministry advised schools to permit females to take required bathroom breaks and released an advisory for managing menstrual hygiene during board exams. Additionally, it mandated that free sanitary napkins be provided at all examination locations.

According to the ministry, menstrual hygiene management is an important part of a girl’s overall well being and shouldn’t interfere with her academic performance. For this reason, the advisory has been issued for all schools in all states and Union Territories, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS).

“All class 10 and 12 board examination centers shall have free sanitary pads on hand, guaranteeing that females have access to necessary hygiene supplies during tests if needed”. According to the advise, female students should be allowed to use the restroom during exam periods as needed to take care of menstruation demands, which will ease discomfort and help them concentrate.

The statement went on to state that the States and Union Territories would carry out sensitization and awareness campaigns to educate staff, teachers, and students on menstrual health and cleanliness.

The ministry stated, “This approach aims to foster a more understanding school environment and reduce stigma.”

The ministry stated that by addressing menstrual hygiene issues during exams, the DoSEL highlights the significance of treating female students with respect and dignity regarding their menstrual needs at the same time, enabling girls to confidently participate in exams and reach their academic potential.