JAMMU, FEBRUARY 10, 2021: -Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Sheetal Nanda today launched eco-friendly sanitary pads at Panchayat Baran of Block Bhalwal here.

Mission Director, JKRLM, Rubina Kauser; Additional Mission Director, JKRLM, BDO Bhalwal and other senior officers of the department were also present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, RDD said that while regular disposal of sanitary pads contribute to plastic waste and pose environmental hazards,the sanitary pads made by this SHG are eco-friendly, affordable, reusable and hygienic. She added that this initiative has also created employment opportunities among rural women of the area.

Sheetal Nanda further stated that mass awareness should be raised through Gram Sabhas, schools and other platforms among the rural women to promote menstrual hygiene management in panchayats.

Later, Secretary RDD also inaugurated Custom Hiring Centre for the SHG members to boost the Mahila Kisan. The female farmers will be provided with agricultural machinery and farm equipment at the Centre.

Explaining the features of these sanitary pads, Block Programme Manager, Bhalwal said that these pads are made from cloth and banana fibre and are environment and health-friendly.

It is pertinent to mention here that these reusable and eco-friendly sanitary pads have been manufactured by Shakti Cluster Level Federation of the Block.