National Guidelines on Menstrual Hygiene Management, 2015

Issued in 2015 by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, the National Guidelines on Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) promote safe and dignified menstruation through awareness, access to products, adequate WASH infrastructure, and safe disposal. Integrated with the Swachh Bharat Mission, the guidelines emphasise multi-stakeholder coordination, technical guidance, and linkages with schemes such as the National Health Mission (NHM) and Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) for affordable menstrual products.

What you’ll find in these guidelines

  • Recognition that every adolescent girl and woman must have access to information and education to manage menstruation safely and with dignity
  • Recommendations for accessible, affordable, and hygienic menstrual absorbent materials for all girls and women
  • Guidance for schools to ensure private, well-maintained toilets with water and soap for comfortable menstrual management
  • Provisions for proper disposal systems for menstrual products, supported by awareness on their safe use and handling
  • Emphasis on normalising menstruation in society to eliminate stigma and promote dignity, equality, and participation for women and girls

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