Odisha to Set Up Breastfeeding Rooms, Promote Menstrual Hygiene

Bhubaneswar: In a progressive move aimed at supporting women’s health and dignity, the Odisha government has announced plans to establish dedicated breastfeeding rooms at public places such as malls, railway stations, and bus stands across the state. The initiative was confirmed by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida during a media briefing.

“The plan is to set up breastfeeding facilities in public spaces within the next two to three months, so that travelling women can feed their babies comfortably and without hesitation,” said Parida.

This step follows a March 2025 directive from the Supreme Court, urging all states and union territories to act upon a Union Government advisory recommending the creation of feeding and childcare rooms in public areas. The apex court emphasized that breastfeeding should not be stigmatised, whether in public spaces or workplaces.

Focus on Menstrual Hygiene

Alongside this initiative, the Odisha government is intensifying its campaign to promote menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls, especially in rural areas.

“Schools have been directed to install sanitary pad vending machines on their premises,” Parida said, adding that the state government is also encouraging people to gift sanitary pads to brides during weddings to normalize their use and break existing taboos.

She further highlighted that sanitary napkins are now available at just Re 1 at all Jan Aushadhi stores, making them affordable for everyone.

“Earlier, many village women lacked awareness about the use of sanitary pads. When sanitary pads are bought by families like regular grocery items, that’s when this social stigma will truly disappear,” she added.

The dual initiatives reflect Odisha’s growing focus on women’s health, dignity, and inclusion, and aim to create a more supportive and stigma-free environment for women and girls across the state.