New Delhi, May 1 (IANS) Healthcare products will now be available to Delhi Metro commuters through vending machines being set up at various stations, a contraceptive manufacturer said here Thursday.
HLL Lifecare Limited, a Kerala-based manufacturer of contraceptives, in association with the Delhi Metro has decided to make an array of healthcare products available at selected stations.
Sanitary napkins, oral contraceptive pills, condoms (male and female), deodorants and ayurvedic products will be on offer.
Health Secretary Lov Verma inaugurated the first vending machine at the Central Secretariat Metro station Wednesday.
“This is a novel initiative of making available contraceptives and other healthcare products to the commuters of Delhi Metro,” Verma said after the launch.
“I’m sure this will further strengthen government of India’s initiatives towards stabilising the population,” he added.
M. Ayyappan, HLL Lifecare Limited’s chairman and managing director, said 25 vending machines would be installed in the first phase at 21 Metro stations.
“Our endeavour is to make condoms, sanitary napkins, deodorants and contraceptive pills available to the commuters of Delhi Metro, who can avail this facility while on the move. It will also contribute to social issues of family planning, HIV/AIDS prevention and women’s hygiene leading to their overall health,” he said.
Operated by vending company Instago, the fully automatic multipurpose vending machines would dispense the products at the press of a button after the designated Indian currency — both in paper and coin forms — has been inserted.