In a landmark move toward workplace inclusivity, the Karnataka government has officially approved the “Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025,” granting women employees one paid leave per month during their menstrual cycle.
The policy applies to women working in government offices, garment industries, multinational companies, IT firms, and other private sector organisations across the state. It has come into immediate effect following the government’s notification issued on Thursday.
A Progressive Step for Women Employees
The initiative evolved from a 2024 proposal, which suggested six menstrual leaves annually, to the current framework offering twelve days of paid leave per year.
Announcing the policy, Labour Minister Santosh Lad said, “We have approved menstrual leaves for women. It is the most progressive law we have brought. Women can take up to 12 sanctioned leaves a year—either once a month or as per their convenience. It’s a feather in the cap of a progressive government that prioritizes women’s welfare.”
Setting a Benchmark for Inclusivity
With this move, Karnataka joins a small but growing list of Indian states implementing menstrual leave policies. Kerala provides two days of menstrual leave each month for female trainees in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), while Bihar and Odisha offer 12 annual menstrual leaves for state government employees.
Experts believe Karnataka’s decision could inspire more organisations nationwide to adopt similar measures, fostering a healthier and more equitable work culture for women.
