Kerala Launches Major Initiative for Menstrual Hygiene and Environmental Protection
The Haritha Keralam Mission is launching a significant program across Kerala. This initiative focuses on distributing menstrual cups and installing incinerators for sanitary napkin disposal in selected institutions. The project aims to address both menstrual hygiene and environmental concerns simultaneously.
Official Launch Event Details
Finance Minister K N Balagopal will formally inaugurate the state-level project on Tuesday. The function takes place at Muttara Government Higher Secondary and Vocational Higher Secondary School in Veliyam grama panchayat, Kollam district. The event begins at 2 PM.
Kollam district panchayat president R Lathadevi will preside over the ceremony. T N Seema, state coordinator of Navakeralam Karma Padhathi and vice-chairperson of Haritha Keralam Mission, will present detailed project information. Kollam district collector N Devidas will deliver the keynote address.
Several local officials will attend the launch. These include Veliyam grama panchayat division member K S Shijukumar, Kottarakkara block panchayat president Bindu S, block division member Padmavathiyamma, and school principal S Sreenivasan.
Project Implementation and Scale
The program uses funds allocated in the 2025–26 state budget. Haritha Keralam Mission collaborates with HLL Lifecare Ltd for implementation. The project will install incinerators at 322 locations across Kerala. Most installations will occur in schools and colleges to ensure scientific disposal of used sanitary napkins.
Based on a comprehensive survey by Haritha Keralam Mission, the program will distribute 1.69 lakh menstrual cups. These cups will go to selected schools, colleges, and Kudumbashree neighbourhood groups.
Phase One Coverage and Objectives
The first phase includes five higher secondary schools in each district. It also covers all colleges and Kudumbashree units in 152 local self-government institutions. These institutions previously adopted the net zero carbon Kerala through people campaign.
The program has multiple objectives. It aims to improve menstrual hygiene infrastructure in educational institutions. The initiative ensures access to eco-friendly menstrual products for beneficiaries. It promotes menstrual health awareness across the state.
Alongside distribution, the program will organize awareness classes and workshops. These sessions will educate beneficiaries about safe and sustainable menstrual practices. The overall goal is to foster environmentally sustainable sanitary practices throughout Kerala communities.
