Why are pads not free in India?

More than the process of making the sanitary pads it is the customs duty levied on the raw materials of the pads such as absorbent polymer and wood pulp that increases the price of these products.

Are pads free in India?

Free Pads for India (FPI) is a platform that creates awareness about 'period shame' and 'period poverty' by visiting slums and adopting menstruators through their free sanitary pads distribution drive. Affirmative! They distribute free pads to young girls and women who still lack the resources to buy sanitary pads.

Do pads have luxury tax in India?

India eliminated its 12% tax on feminine hygiene products in 2018. This was after a year of lobbying by advocacy groups and celebrities. Actor Akshay Kumar featured as the lead male actor in Pad Man and raised awareness about the taboo on menstruation.

In which country are pads free?

1. Scotland. In November 2020, Scotland became the first country to provide tampons and sanitary pads to anyone who needs them. Scottish Labour MSP Monica Lennon led the effort through the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Bill.

How much do pads cost in India?

Read More: Period Poverty: Everything You Need to Know

In 2018, India declared tampons and sanitary napkins tax-free, but most sanitary pads cost between 5 to 12 rupees (8 cents to 20 cents) per pad, which is a luxury for the nearly 800 million people who live on less than $1.90 a day.

Menstruating Without Pads

Are condoms taxed in India?

As per GST Law, there is no GST payable on Condoms and contraceptives. So the rate of GST payable on Condoms and contraceptives is nil rate. The Council has broadly approved the GST rates for goods at nil rate, 5%, 12%, 18% and 28% to be levied on certain goods.

Why are sanitary pads so expensive in India?

The machinery for manufacturing salary pad were extremely expensive and only huge business could invest in it. Sanitary napkins are mainly manufactured by huge producers such as HUL and PNG. The sanitary pads produced by these companies are often expensive and unaffordable for most women.

How can I get free pads?

Anyone who needs period products can text 211 or visit 211.org to find a location giving out free tampons and pads.

Should pads be free?

Offering free and accessible period products can help people who menstruate save upwards of $5,000 in their lifetimes, reduces stress on women's shelters, and reduces waste — especially if the products provided are eco-friendly!

Why are period products not free?

Menstruating is a basic fact of human existence. Menstrual hygiene products are necessities, not luxuries, and should be treated as such. Unfortunately, food stamps and subsidies under the WIC (women, infants, and children) program that help with groceries do not cover menstrual products.

Are condoms tax free?

Their hygienic benefits help people participate in everyday life. Sales Tax Applies to Many Goods Used to Prevent or Treat Disease, Injury, or Death. For example, sales tax applies to bandages, condoms, toothbrushes, bicycle helmets, children's car seats, and over-the-counter medications.

Does India have tampon tax?

It now joins the list of countries which have already eliminated this tax, which includes India, Australia and Canada.

What is period poverty in India?

Period poverty is a serious concern in many countries, specifically India. Period poverty involves a lack of access to sanitary products, menstrual education and hygiene and sanitation facilities necessary to properly manage menstruation.

Why are periods taboo in India?

In India,Cultural norms and religious taboos on menstruation are often compounded by traditional associations with evil spirits, shame and embarrassment surrounding sexual reproduction. In some regions, women bury their cloths used during menstruation to prevent them being used by evil spirits.

Are sanitary pads affordable in India?

Under the Suvidha brand, the government is selling biodegradable and affordable sanitary pads to women. Suvidha pads are sold at Janaushadhi Kendras stores that provide quality medicines at affordable prices. In 2019, the price of the biodegradable pads was further subsidised to Re 1 from Rs. 2.50 per piece.

Who made first pad in India?

Arunachalam Muruganantham: India's Menstrual Man. Arunachalam Muruganantham was obsessed with making the perfect sanitary pad for his wife. After years of work, his invention has changed the lives of millions of women in India.

Why should period products be free in school?

Access to free supplies would help to alleviate some of the economic strain having a period provides. Lack of access to menstrual supplies can have an impact on education. Without access to supplies, students often miss class or do not participate as vigorously for fear of leakage and embarrassment.

What do you do if you don't have a pad at school?

Can I use a sock as a pad?

SOCKS: Use your old socks to make a temporary pad. You can wrap a toilet paper around the sock on your underwear to prevent it from shifting. Socks are usually sweat absorbent and hence make makeshift pads.

Is it OK to use toilet paper as a pad?

Bamidele Iwalokun, a medical researcher, says the use of tissue paper as sanitary pads could lead to severe health complications.

How can I bleed for free on my period?

Setting yourself up for free bleeding menstruation

Use a towel when sitting on furniture, or to lie on when you're in bed at night. Only go outside if you feel comfortable. Pack extra clothes and underwear if you're leaving the house and think you might bleed through your clothes.

Does India tax sanitary pads?

In 2018, after months of campaigning, the tax on the sanitary pads in India was removed, which was set at 12% under the Goods and Services Act.

Are tampons more expensive than pads in India?

Johri said that tampons are on the market for a very long time but are more expensive than sanitary pads.

How much does pad cost in USA?

Depending on the brand, a pack of 8-12 disks can cost between $10 and $20. Thus, a woman could end up spending at least $4,560 on disks. It is also important to note that the costs of cups and disks might be in addition to the cost of pads/panty liners, as many women use both at the same time to avoid leakage.