The Campaign for Change: Abolishing the Sanitary Product Tax
In 2018, India witnessed a significant turning point in women’s health and hygiene with the abolition of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on sanitary products. This move came after persistent and passionate advocacy by activists underscoring the importance of accessible menstrual hygiene products for women and girls across the country. Before this vacation of the tax, sanitary items were subjected to a 12% GST, making them less affordable for many.
The Activists Behind the Change
The journey towards this landmark decision was led by a coalition of activists, organizations, and social media campaigns that aimed to highlight the injustices faced by women regarding menstrual health. Their efforts included raising awareness about the taboo surrounding menstruation and the need for affordable sanitary supplies. By engaging the public and policymakers alike, these activists successfully brought the issue into mainstream discourse.
The Role of Social Media in Advocacy
Social media played a vital role in amplifying the voices of activists, leading to widespread attention focused on the necessity of fair access to sanitary products. Hashtags like #PeriodsAreNotAWaste became rallying cries, urging citizens to re-evaluate their state policies on menstrual health and hygiene.
A Historic Decision in Parliament
Following countless petitions, protests, and public discussions, the Indian government eventually decided to scrap the sanitary product tax from July 2018 onward. This decision was met with widespread applause and signified a step towards gender equality and health accessibility.
Government’s Response to the Advocacy
In reaction to the advocacy pressure, the government acknowledged the detrimental effects that the tax had on women's hygiene and health. Leaders from various political parties came together, emphasizing the need to promote health and hygiene among women and girls across the nation.
The Impact of This Decision
The removal of the GST has made sanitary products more affordable for millions of women and girls in India. This change is expected to improve menstrual hygiene practices, leading to better health outcomes and more inclusive conversations surrounding periods—the stigma of which has been historically ingrained in Indian society.
Fun Fact
Breaking the Taboo on Menstruation
One interesting fact about the campaign to scrap the tax is the breadth of support it received; over a million signatures were collected in a petition appealing to the Indian government, showcasing the collective voice of society advocating for women's rights and health.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Menstrual Health Advocacy
For those interested in exploring more about menstrual health and the advocacy surrounding it, consider reading “Period. End of Sentence.”, a book that highlights the challenges faced by women in managing menstruation. Another notable book is “The Menstrual Cycle: Your Guide to Hormonal Health”, which discusses the science and health of menstruation.
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