Bhubaneswar: To foster an inclusive and supportive workplace environment, Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida, inaugurated newly installed sanitary napkin vending and disposal machines at Loka Seva Bhawan today. These installations aim to enhance hygiene and convenience for women employees and visitors at the premises.
During the inauguration, the Deputy Chief Minister engaged with female employees, attentively listening to their concerns and grievances. She assured them of the government’s steadfast commitment to creating a healthy, safe, and supportive work environment, addressing their physical and mental well-being.
The event was attended by prominent officials, including Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg, IAS, Principal Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Department Usha Padhee, IAS, and Principal Secretary of Women and Child Development Department Shubha Sharma, IAS.
Following the inauguration, the Deputy Chief Minister, accompanied by the Development Commissioner and senior officials, conducted a surprise inspection of the crèche facility within Loka Seva Bhawan. During the visit, she interacted with the service providers and children, noting the need for expanded space to accommodate more children. A proposal to address this requirement is expected to be finalized soon.
The sanitary napkin vending and disposal machines have been strategically placed for maximum accessibility, including in the ladies’ toilet complex adjacent to the Central Lift Lobby on the second floor and the Ladies’ Common Room. Plans are also underway to extend these facilities to all ladies’ washrooms in the building, further promoting a hygienic and inclusive environment for women employees and visitors.