UGC asks universities to install sanitary napkin incinerators

The Centre has asked all Universities to consider installation of sanitary napkin vending machines and incinerators for women students on their campus.

“As you are aware of the nationwide campaign 'Swachh Bharat and Swasth Bharat', the problem of improper disposal of menstrual waste is a major roadblock to our achieving the Swachh Bharat Mission's goal to create a clean India,” University Grants Commission (UGC) secretary Jaspal S Sandhu has said in a recent letter to all vice-chancellors.

The sanitary napkin vending machines and incinerators can be procured from the HLL Lifecare Limited, which is a public sector enterprise under the administrative control of the Union Health Ministry, he said.

“You are requested to consider the installation of these machines within the premises of girls/women hostels,” he added.

These machines are “highly inclined” with the objectives of the Centre's 'Swachh Bharat Mission' towards achieving a clean and healthy India by 2019, the UGC official said.

“The estimated cost for one set of the machine is Rs 49,649. The expenditure to be incurred (on purchase of the machine) can be directly booked under the solid waste management component of the Swachh Bharat Mission,” he said.

He asked the vice chancellors to approach Union Ministry for Urban Development for details on procurement and installation of the machine under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

“In an effort to promote proper disposal of menstrual waste and promote the Swachh Bharat Mission, it is imperative that we take the initiative to promote menstrual sanitation and proper disposal of menstrual waste by creating awareness, encouraging every woman to use eco-friendly incinerators and promoting research for a biodegradable alternative,” Sandhu said.

These steps “must be taken to solve the problems” that improper disposal of sanitary napkins causes to the environment and to public health.

“I request your support and cooperation for making Swachh Bharat Mission a success through the installation of this technology and necessary instructions may also be issued to the colleges affiliated to your university,” he added.