Kamal Ghorui
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all affiliated schools to implement comprehensive menstrual hygiene management (MHM) measures, following a recent Supreme Court ruling that recognises menstrual health as a fundamental right tied to dignity, education, and equal opportunity. The directive calls for immediate improvements in school infrastructure, access to sanitary products, and structured awareness initiatives for students. Aimed at strengthening gender equity and student well-being, the move is expected to create a safer, more inclusive environment for adolescent girls while addressing persistent gaps in sanitation and health education across schools.
Supreme Court links menstrual health to fundamental rights
The directive was issued in response to a Supreme Court ruling dated January 20, 2026, which held that access to dignified menstruation was an important aspect of Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court decided that if proper sanitary facilities are not provided to girls during the menstruation period, then it would affect their education as well as their right to equality. Besides that, the Supreme Court also issued an ongoing mandamus, i.e., it made it obligatory for the schools in all the States and Union Territories concerned to execute certain measures which will ensure menstrual hygiene support.
Major directions issued to CBSE schools
CBSE has outlined a set of mandatory steps that all affiliated schools must follow:
- Improved Infrastructure: Schools are directed to provide girls with safe and hygienic toilet and washing facilities.
- Sanitary Products: Schools need to provide girls with access to biodegradable sanitary napkins and special MHM corners in schools.
- Safe Disposal: Schools need to provide proper mechanisms for the disposal of sanitary waste.
- Awareness: Schools need to conduct training sessions on girls’ health and puberty, along with gender-sensitive discussions according to NCERT and SCERT guidelines.
- Monitoring through Inspections: Schools need to cooperate with inspections by the District Education Officers.
Compliance deadlines and reporting
Schools have been given detailed instructions to submit monthly compliance reports at fixed deadlines. The first report will be due before March 31, 2026, and the second report must be submitted by April 30, 2026. Reports should only be sent through an official Google form which will be shared by CBSE.
Focus on inclusive and supportive school environment
The CBSE has emphasised that beyond infrastructure, schools should work towards fostering an inclusive and stigma-free environment. By integrating menstrual health education into regular discussions, institutions can play a crucial role in normalising the conversation and supporting adolescent girls.The directive marks a broader push towards ensuring that schools not only provide education but also uphold the dignity, health, and well-being of every student.
