Karnataka Shuchi Scheme 2025: Free Sanitary Pads and Menstrual Cups for School Girls
Karnataka is bringing back the Shuchi Scheme to provide free sanitary pads and menstrual cups to school girls starting in 2025. This government program aims to teach menstrual hygiene and supply menstrual products to girls in schools and colleges. After a three-year break, the scheme is returning to support girls’ health and help them attend school comfortably during their periods.
Overview of Karnataka Shuchi Scheme 2025
The Shuchi Scheme was started earlier to provide free sanitary napkins to female students in Karnataka. However, it was paused for the last three years. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced the restart of the scheme, with distribution of sanitary pads starting soon. As part of the Shuchi Nanna Maithri project, menstrual cups will be given to pre-university students in government and aided colleges in some districts like Dakshina Kannada and Chamarajanagar as a trial.
National swimmer Sapthami Gowda, the brand ambassador for the menstrual cup program, shared her own period challenges and encouraged girls not to let periods hold them back from reaching their goals. The trial saw menstrual cup use grow from 60 students initially to 272 out of 300 by the end, showing that acceptance is increasing after addressing concerns and fears through counseling.
Karnataka Shuchi Scheme 2025 Details
| Name | Karnataka Shuchi Scheme |
| Started by | Government of Karnataka |
| Announced by | Dinesh Gundu Rao, Health and Family Welfare Minister |
| Date of Announcement | September 11, 2024 |
| Who can benefit | School and college girls in Karnataka |
| Age Group | 10 to 18 years |
| Purpose | To provide free menstrual cups and sanitary pads |
Why Karnataka Shuchi Scheme is Important
Disposing of sanitary pads creates a lot of environmental waste—about 200 kg per woman over her lifetime. Menstrual cups are more eco-friendly, lasting nearly eight years and cutting down waste. Girls often miss school during periods, but menstrual cups and free sanitary pads help them continue their studies without interruption. Each cup can be used safely for up to eight hours, making it a handy option.
Main Features of the Shuchi Scheme
- Restarting education on menstrual hygiene and free distribution of sanitary products after a three-year break
- Starting menstrual cup trial programs for girls in Dakshina Kannada and Chamarajanagar districts
- Providing around 40 lakh sanitary pads yearly to girls aged 10 to 18
- Government has issued tenders worth Rs 20 crore for this scheme
- Support from actress Sapthami Gowda as the program’s brand ambassador
Main Benefits of Karnataka Shuchi Scheme 2025
- About 15,000 menstrual cups will be given to pre-university students in selected districts initially
- Positive trial results will lead to expansion across all districts in Karnataka
- The scheme helps end the taboo around menstruation by encouraging open talks in communities
- Girls using menstrual cups can become ambassadors spreading awareness about menstrual hygiene
How to Get Benefits from Karnataka Shuchi Scheme
You don’t need to apply separately to get benefits under this scheme. Eligible school girls will receive free sanitary pads and menstrual cups directly from their schools. Schools will work with the government to distribute these products to all beneficiaries.
This renewed Karnataka Shuchi Scheme offers practical support and education to help girls stay healthy, confident, and in school during their periods.