PANAJI
Government and government-aided schools in the State have been directed to fully implement menstrual hygiene management facilities by January 31, 2027, with the Directorate of Education (DoE) warning of strict administrative action, including possible cancellation of recognition or affiliation, for non-compliance.
As per the directive, school heads must inspect existing facilities and submit detailed compliance reports by October 30, 2026. Schools where infrastructure remains inadequate will have to complete the required facilities within the stipulated deadline.
The DoE in March had directed the schools to set up Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) corners equipped with, among other things, spare innerwear, spare uniforms, disposable bags and other essential materials to address menstruation-related exigencies.
The directions follow the Supreme Court's ruling on menstrual hygiene rights in the case of Dr Jaya Thakur vs Union of India in January, earlier this year, which emphasised the need to protect the health, dignity and equality of girl students. Director of Education Bhagirath Shetye has warned that schools failing to comply with the directions within the prescribed timelines could face administrative action, including the cancellation of their recognition or affiliation. The directive seeks to ensure that menstruation does not compromise girls' health, dignity or access to education.
Under the guidelines, schools must provide separate, functional toilets for boys and girls, with adequate water supply. At least one accessible and clean toilet for students with disabilities must also be available, irrespective of whether such students are currently enrolled in the institution.
All toilets must have uninterrupted access to soap and water, while schools are required to deploy dedicated sanitation staff to ensure daily cleaning and maintenance. The Directorate has also directed schools to make biodegradable and environment-friendly sanitary napkins available to girl students through vending machines or authorised staff. For the safe disposal of used sanitary napkins, schools must put in place environmentally appropriate mechanisms in accordance with solid waste management rules. Covered waste bins must also be provided in toilet facilities.
The guidelines further call for special training for male and female teachers to sensitise them to menstrual hygiene and enable them to support students in a safe and stigma-free environment.
