Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab Govt distributes 7.37 crore free sanitary pads, benefits over 13.65 lakh women
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, March 26, 2026 The Punjab Government has strengthened its focus on women’s health and hygiene by distributing over 7.37 crore sanitary pads free of cost across the state, benefiting more than 13.65 lakh women. The initiative, led under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has been implemented at an expenditure of around ₹28 crore.
Sharing details, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said the scheme is significantly improving menstrual hygiene and awareness, particularly among women from economically weaker and rural backgrounds. She added that the initiative is not only providing financial relief but also ensuring dignity and better health outcomes.
Under the ‘Nawi Disha’ scheme, sanitary pads are being distributed every month through 27,314 Anganwadi Centres, ensuring consistent access to essential hygiene products. Each eligible woman receives nine sanitary pads per month, making menstrual hygiene support regular and accessible.
The Minister further stated that the initiative is helping break menstrual stigma while promoting awareness among women and adolescent girls. Looking ahead, the government has set a target to distribute an additional 3.68 crore sanitary pads during the current financial year at an estimated cost of ₹14.60 crore, aiming to expand its reach further.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Dr. Baljit Kaur said the Punjab Government will continue to implement women-centric welfare initiatives to ensure that every woman has access to basic health and hygiene facilities, enabling a safe, healthy, and dignified life.