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More than just a business venture, her initiative represents a sustainable model of innovation, one that is inspiring not only Jaipur but the country at large
The pads are biodegradable and plastic-free, promoting sustainability. (Representational Image)
Women entrepreneurs in Jaipur are increasingly reshaping both industry and society through innovation. Among them, Sunita Sharma, popularly called the “Pad Woman”, has emerged as a remarkable example of how business can align with social responsibility and environmental sustainability.
Through her startup Elite, Sharma has developed eco-friendly sanitary pads that are not only affordable and hygienic but also biodegradable. Speaking to Local18, she said, “I have conducted extensive research on women’s hygiene and found that in many rural and tribal areas, women still rely on cloth, leaves, or unsafe materials during menstruation. The main reason is lack of education and awareness.”
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Sharma noted that while more women have begun using sanitary pads, most commercial products remain plastic-based. “The first layer of pads available in the market is often made of plastic, which can increase the risk of serious diseases like cervical cancer,” she explained. Concerned about this health hazard and its environmental impact, Sharma began working on an alternative that would be safe for women and the planet.
Her sanitary pads, made from banana stem fibre and American cotton, offer higher absorbency than conventional products. Importantly, they are plastic-free, with even the protector sheet crafted from eco-friendly materials. Unlike conventional pads, which contaminate soil and water after disposal, Sharma’s pads decompose naturally, turning into compost. In line with her mission for a plastic-free India, she also uses paper-based packaging instead of polythene.
The startup, however, is not just about products. In its early stages, Sharma distributed free pads to hundreds of women and girls in schools, colleges, and social organisations to build awareness. Today, her products are available in medical stores and online platforms, besides being showcased at exhibitions across the country, where they have drawn wide appreciation. Despite their eco-friendly edge, she maintains that the pads are priced on par with other brands, making them accessible to a wider population.
Sharma describes Elite as working with four key missions: promoting feminine hygiene, reducing plastic use, protecting the environment, and raising menstrual health awareness. Her efforts, she says, are a step towards addressing both women’s health and environmental challenges.
Her journey from research to recognition reflects the growing role of women-led startups in addressing social and ecological concerns.
September 29, 2025, 15:53 IST
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