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The federal government has announced plans to remove taxes on sanitary pads and contraceptives as part of the Budget 2026-27, a decision widely welcomed across social media as a major step toward improving public health and affordability.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb made the announcement during his budget speech on Friday, confirming that these essential health and hygiene products would no longer be subject to taxation in the upcoming financial year beginning July 1.

The decision was quickly praised by many citizens and online users, who described it as a long-overdue reform. Many argued that menstrual hygiene products and contraceptives should never have been taxed in the first place, calling them basic necessities rather than luxury items.

Social media reactions highlighted relief among women and health advocates, who said the move could help reduce financial pressure on low-income households and improve access to essential reproductive health products. Some users also noted that Pakistan would be aligning with a small group of countries that have eliminated taxes on menstrual hygiene items.

The policy shift also drew attention to ongoing legal and advocacy efforts that challenged the taxation of sanitary products. Activists such as Mahnoor Omer, who previously petitioned the Lahore High Court on the issue, were acknowledged by users for raising awareness. Similar petitions were also filed in the Sindh High Court by other women’s rights campaigners.

However, some commentators argued that while the tax removal is a positive step, it may not be enough to address deeper social barriers surrounding contraceptive use in Pakistan, particularly stigma and limited awareness.

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