Menstrual Health, Sanitation Policy, and Adolescent Well-Being: An Evaluation of Swachh Bharat Mission in Government Girls’ Schools of Kota, Rajasthan

Dishi jain

Under Guidance of

Dr. Mrs. Sunita Vigesh Yadav

Ph.D,MPHIL,M.COM,M.A,M.B.A,B.ED

SHYAMNARAYAN THAKUR MARG, THAKUR KANDIVALI [EAST]

Abstract : Menstrual health is an important but often overlooked aspect of adolescent well-being in government schools. Despite sanitation policies aimed at improving school infrastructure, many adolescent girls continue to face challenges in managing menstruation during school hours. This study examines menstrual health practices and sanitation support in selected government girls’ schools of Jaipur and Kota districts, Rajasthan. The study follows a descriptive and qualitative research design and is based on questionnaire responses, field visits, and direct interactions with adolescent girls. It focuses on the availability and usability of sanitation facilities, access to menstrual hygiene products, disposal practices, awareness levels, and institutional support within schools. Brief awareness interactions were also conducted to understand students’ comfort and responses. The findings indicate that although basic sanitation facilities are present in most schools, their effective use during menstruation is limited due to poor maintenance, irregular availability of sanitary products, and lack of open communication. Menstruation continues to affect school attendance, concentration, and emotional well-being. The study concludes that effective menstrual health management requires an integrated approach combining infrastructure, awareness, regular monitoring, and supportive school environments.

Keywords: Menstrual health, Sanitation facilities, Adolescent girls, Government schools, Menstrual hygiene management, Jaipur and Kota districts.