Both sanitary pads and condoms are health related products, both are directly related to daily needs, yet they are treated differently in terms of tax. On one hand, there is zero tax on sanitary pads, while on the other hand, 12 percent GST is charged on condoms. This question is not just about tax, but is related to government policy, social thinking and public health priorities. Hidden behind this difference is the story of a long policy journey and social pressure. Let’s find out.

How did these two products come under the purview of GST?

When Goods and Services Tax (GST) was implemented in the country in 2017, both sanitary pads and condoms were kept in different categories. At that time, 12 percent GST was imposed on sanitary pads, while condoms were also kept in the 12 percent tax slab. This decision was based on technical classification, not on social needs.

Journey to freedom from sanitary pad tax

Sanitary pads were initially categorized as personal care or cosmetic products, on which 12 percent GST was applicable. Women, social organizations and health experts across the country raised their voice against this. It was argued that menstruation is not a choice but a biological necessity. Due to this widespread public pressure and giving priority to women’s health, the government made sanitary pads completely tax-free in July 2018. After this, 0 percent GST is applicable on these.

Why still 12% tax on condoms?

Condoms are considered an important means of family planning and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS. Despite this it was not made completely tax-free. According to policy experts, condom is definitely considered a health product, but it has not been kept in the category of essential biological need like menstruation. Additionally, condoms are already widely made available under government and free distribution schemes, which led to an argument for maintaining taxes on condoms sold in the market.

Impact of social thinking in policy

Removal of tax on sanitary pads was the result of social awareness and women’s rights movement. At the same time, the hesitation and limited public pressure present in the society regarding condoms has also been influencing the tax policy. However, health experts believe that sexual health is as important a part of public health as menstrual hygiene.

Will condoms also be tax-free in future?

From time to time there has been a demand that condoms should also be brought in the 0 percent GST slab. At present the government has not taken any such decision, but with increasing public health and awareness, the possibility of reconsidering this policy cannot be ruled out.

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Gender bias organ donation: Sometimes the distance between life and death is just a healthy organ. In such a situation, organ donation is the biggest gift to save someone’s life. But do you know that women in India, whether they are donors or receivers, often do not get priority? Recently, a report by the National Ang and Tissue Transplantation Organization (NOTTO) has brought out this shocking truth.

Let me tell you, this report not only surprised the data, but also told how there is inequality in this process with women. However, this should not happen.

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Shocking figures

• The report of the NOTTO states that it has been recommended to prioritize female patients and relatives of deceased donors as beneficiaries.
• The number of men in those who receive organs is much more than that of women.
• In many cases there are more women donors, but they do not get priority as a receiver.
• Lack of social, economic and awareness is the main reason for this inequality.

Why do women not get priority?

• Social mindset – In many families, the health of men is given priority, which delays women’s treatment and organ transplantation.
• Economic reasons – Many times the family chooses a male member to spend expensive transplant.
• Lack of awareness-In rural and semi-urban areas, women know less about organ donation and its rights.
• Low access to health facilities – Women are unable to complete timely investigation and listing process.

What was said in the report of Notto

• Priority should be given to women patients in the list of organ transplantation
• Women beneficiaries get priority among relatives of deceased donors
• Transparency and equal opportunities should be ensured in organ donation process
• Women should be informed about their rights and procedure by running awareness campaign

Why is transparency and equality necessary in organ donation?

Organ donation is not just a medical process, but the biggest form of humanity. If there will be discrimination on the basis of gender, then not only morality, but also the ability to save life will be affected. It is necessary to give women a chance to equalize.

• Health related equality can come in society
• Confidence and participation in organ donation increased

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Disclaimer: Some information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.

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