Punjab Invests ₹54 Crores In Free Pads, Establishing Landmark Breakthrough In Women’s Health Nationwise

Punjab News:  For the first time, Punjab has changed the direction of public health policy by moving from paperwork to practical delivery. Earlier schemes, especially under previous governments, often suffered from poor quality and ineffective distribution. Women complained of discomfort and infections due to low-grade products.

Instead of repeating similar mistakes, the Mann government focused on quality improvement and reliable access. The scheme now ensures every rupee directly benefits the user. Real change is measured not by announcements but by impact on lives. Punjab has shifted emphasis from spending reports to real results.

What Makes Navi Disha A Standout Initiative?

Under the ‘Navi Disha’ scheme, women receive soft, high-quality and fully biodegradable sanitary pads. Around 13.65 lakh women are supplied with nine pads every month through local Anganwadi centres. These centres, numbering 27,313, ensure consistent availability. The scheme also uses digital technology for real-time monitoring via mobile apps and dashboards. This prevents any delay, stock-out or misuse of resources. Quality standards are strictly maintained at every stage. The initiative focuses on sustainability, transparency and dignity protection.

How Does Investment Reflect Intentions?

The current government has invested ₹53 crores in this program, signalling a strong commitment to women’s welfare. Compared to earlier schemes, where money remained largely on paper, this investment visibly reaches beneficiaries. The focus is not only on product availability but also on safe usage and health protection. The government believes that spending wisely on women’s care yields long-term productivity. Beneficiary feedback confirms increased confidence and comfort during monthly health cycles. Investment is seen as a step toward gender-focused governance.

Could Punjab Become A Model For Other States?

Punjab’s performance surpasses many larger states in ensuring health product access. In Uttar Pradesh, regular disruption and cloth dependency are reported. Bihar and Jharkhand show weak hygiene awareness and poor distribution coverage. Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan face rural delivery challenges and stock shortages. Meanwhile, Punjab safely eliminates these issues through digital tracking and monthly guaranteed supply. Unlike Odisha and Chhattisgarh where implementation varies, Punjab maintains consistent standards approved at cabinet level. Experts see the project as a replicable model for sustainable public health systems.

What Are Women Saying About The Scheme?

Women from villages confirm positive impact through personal testimonies. A beneficiary, Gurpreet Kaur, shared that earlier she felt ashamed going to work during menstruation due to lack of money and hygiene access. Now, local Anganwadi workers deliver pads at home every month. She states that the Chief Minister understood their everyday struggle and protected their dignity. Real stories reflect ground-level change. Women are now able to manage menstrual health without discomfort or hesitation. Confidence has replaced worry.

How Has Quality Replaced Paper-Based Schemes?

The earlier ‘Udaan’ scheme reportedly spent ₹40.55 crores annually but failed to address product quality issues. Women received unhygienic and odour-producing pads which often led to infections. Those funds remained primarily reflected on reports rather than meaningful benefits. The new system focuses on tested, safe and environment-friendly products. Delivery commitments are maintained through digital supervision. The administrative approach has shifted from report compliance to real health care results. This demonstrates government accountability through practical action.

Is This The Real Strength Of Punjab Governance?

Experts suggest ‘Navi Disha’ reflects good governance built on transparency, social equity and strong monitoring. The scheme protects women’s dignity while addressing a sensitive health concern often ignored in policy planning. Punjab has moved beyond temporary relief and built a structured, outcomes-based delivery system. The impact reaches across rural and urban sections equally. Women now walk to work with assurance and self-respect. This initiative positions Punjab as a frontrunner in health empowerment, setting a new direction for the rest of the country.