Gundu Rao launches menstrual cup distribution initiative for hygiene

NT Correspondent

Mangaluru: Dinesh Gundu Rao, the State Health and Family Welfare Minister and Mangaluru in-charge minister, formally launched the comprehensive distribution of menstrual cups as part of the Maitri Menstrual Cup scheme, an initiative of the Health and Family Welfare Department.

The inauguration took place on Monday, September 11, at Nehru Maidan, Mangaluru. In his address to the audience, Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasised the significance of menstrual hygiene awareness through this program.

He highlighted the previous Suchi scheme, initiated in 2013-14, which provided free sanitary napkins to girls in government schools from class 6 to 12.

Although this initiative benefited countless females over the years, it has been temporarily suspended for the last three years. Rao announced the revival of the scheme, with a renewed focus on encouraging the use of menstrual cups among females.

The goal is to empower them to pursue their education, engage in sports and other activities, and support their overall well-being. Starting in October, they will be distributed to 40 lakh female students as part of this initiative.