UP Schools Get 68,358 Menstrual Health Clubs, 66,045 Pad Banks As CM Yogi Adityanath Govt Pushes Girls' Hygiene & Dignity

Lucknow, October 08: In a comprehensive effort to improve menstrual health management (MHM) for girls in schools, the Yogi government has established 68,358 menstrual health clubs and 66,045 pad banks across the state. These initiatives, led by the Director General of School Education Monika Rani, aim to reduce hesitation and embarrassment around menstruation while providing girls with essential facilities and accurate information.

As part of these efforts, awareness sessions have been held in 63,633 schools, and discussions on MHM-related aspects with teachers have taken place in 63,928 schools. Additionally, workshops for 209 master trainers were organized on August 13 and 14, 2026, followed by the training of 450 master trainers between September 9 and 25, 2026. This training will aid in effectively disseminating MHM information and activities at the school level.

The MHM system extends beyond providing sanitary napkins. It includes establishing necessary facilities such as clean toilets, water, and handwashing facilities in schools. Regular awareness activities, including sessions on Menstrual Health Management and emergency assistance numbers, are conducted under the Meena Manch on Saturdays.

The weekly activity-based booklet 'Pragati Ke Pankh,' designed for adolescent boys and girls, also incorporates information on MHM and references the judgment in Dr Jaya Thakur versus Government of India and Others.

The State Council of Educational Research and Training, Uttar Pradesh, has further integrated Menstrual Health Management awareness into textbooks based on the existing curriculum. This initiative aims to foster open dialogue among students and teachers about menstruation-related issues. The Yogi government's ultimate goal is to create a supportive school environment where hesitation around menstruation is minimized, accurate information is readily available, and girls can pursue their education with confidence.

Sandeep Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Basic Education, emphasized the government's commitment to prioritizing girls' health, hygiene, and dignity. He highlighted that the state is continuously strengthening this system through MHM clubs, pad banks, awareness sessions, and master-trainer training, ensuring that every girl receives the necessary facilities, correct information, and a dignified environment to continue her education without hindrance.