New Delhi, 22.10.2024 – Indian Oil Corporation has partnered with Matri Sudha, a well-known NGO, to install sanitary pad vending machines at 14 key Delhi Metro stations, promoting women’s health, hygiene, and empowerment. This initiative aligns with Indian Oil’s Corporate Social Responsibility commitments and supports the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’s objectives, ensuring easy and affordable access to menstrual hygiene products for women commuters. By doing so, Indian Oil is taking a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women, particularly in public spaces. Matri Sudha and Indian Oil Unite for Menstrual Health.
This collaboration aims to break down barriers and stigma surrounding menstrual health, encouraging open conversations and greater awareness.
Matri Sudha will manage the operations of these vending machines, providing customer support and ensuring their smooth functionality and maintenance. Additionally, they will run awareness campaigns on menstrual hygiene in collaboration with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
Key Features of the Initiative:
• Accessibility: Vending machines are strategically placed at prominent locations within metro stations to guarantee easy access for women commuters.
• Affordability: Sanitary pads will be available for a nominal price of Rs. 2 per pad, with payment options including UPI and coins, ensuring affordability for all.
“Indian Oil is committed to fostering sustainable development and contributing to the health and well-being of communities across India. This initiative reflects our dedication to women’s health and hygiene, and we believe it will have a lasting impact,” said Sh. Tapas Kumar Pattanayak, ED(HR) Refineries Division, Indian Oil.
The sanitary pad vending machines have been installed at the following metro stations: Saket, AIIMS, INA, Lok KalyanMarg, Rajiv Chowk, New Delhi, GTB Nagar, Kashmere Gate, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, Lajpat Nagar, Govind Puri, Badarpur, and Kalkaji Mandir.
“Delhi Metro is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all its passengers,” said Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director (Corporate Communications)/DMRC. “By introducing these vending machines, we aim to remove barriers to access and contribute to the overall well-being of women in our city.” This initiative is part of DMRC’s broader efforts to enhance the commuting experience for women, alongside existing measures such as dedicated coaches and improved safety protocols.
“Join us as we take this significant step towards empowering women and promoting health and hygiene in public spaces,” said Sh. Surender Singh, President, Matri Sudha. “This initiative will significantly enhance our 23-year effort in the field of health and nutrition in the country. To fulfill the vision of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and India’s 2047 Vision, MatriSudha has launched this initiative by installing sanitary pad vending machines at selected Delhi Metro stations, in designated public toilets, and in government schools in Delhi. We extend our gratitude to the entire team of Indian Oil and DMRC for taking this forward.”
Matri Sudha is expected to reach out directly to more than 2.5 lac women and to create awareness among 10 lac people commuting through Delhi Metro on a yearly basis.
Presently on average per day 35-40 women take out sanitary pads from the vending machines.
