Objectives and Institutional Governance
The Government of India launched the Jan Aushadhi Suvidha initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) to eliminate menstrual health disparities. Traditional unhygienic practices during menstruation cause reproductive tract infections, cervical issues, and social stigma.
Through a nationwide network of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK), oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins are distributed at heavily subsidized nominal prices to ensure every woman has access to hygienic protection.
- Jan Aushadhi Suvidha: Subsidized oxo-biodegradable sanitary pads available at Janaushadhi outlets nationwide.
- National Health Mission (MHS): Community distribution through Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) in rural villages.
- Environmental Sustainability: Oxo-biodegradable technology ensures safe decomposition upon exposure to sunlight and oxygen.
Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (MHS) in Rural Communities
Under the National Health Mission (NHM), the Menstrual Hygiene Scheme targets rural adolescent girls aged 10 to 19 years. Village ASHAs receive subsidized sanitary pad packs from Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and distribute them directly to adolescent girls during monthly village health and sanitation days.
The scheme pairs pad distribution with structured hygiene education sessions held in rural schools and Anganwadi centers, debunking myths and promoting safe menstrual waste disposal.
- ASHA Community Mobilization: Doorstep delivery and school distribution by village healthcare workers.
- Hygiene Education: Interactive counseling on reproductive health, proper pad changing intervals, and personal hygiene.
- School Retention: Reduces school dropout and absenteeism among adolescent girls during menstruation.
Availability and Procurement Channels
Women can procure Jan Aushadhi Suvidha sanitary pads directly from over 10,000 functional Janaushadhi Kendras situated across district hospitals, railway stations, and rural market centers. No identity documentation or medical prescription is required.
In addition, state governments operate localized welfare distribution drives in government schools, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs), and social welfare hostels to ensure continuous supplies.
- Janaushadhi Kendra Network: Open purchase across certified PMBJK pharmacies without prescription barriers.
- Institutional School Supplies: Direct distribution in government secondary schools and rural residential hostels.
- Quality Standards: Manufactured according to stringent Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) absorption and hygiene specifications.
Official source
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Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) - PMBJP ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the Jan Aushadhi Suvidha sanitary napkin scheme?
It is a central government initiative under PMBJP providing oxo-biodegradable sanitary pads at heavily subsidized nominal rates through Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
Where can women purchase government Suvidha sanitary pads?
They can be purchased directly from any local Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra across the country without a prescription.
How does the Menstrual Hygiene Scheme work in rural areas?
Under NHM, village ASHA workers distribute subsidized sanitary pad packs to adolescent girls and conduct menstrual hygiene education sessions.
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