Karnataka Leads with Menstrual Leave for Working Women

• Karnataka approves one-day menstrual leave for all working women
• Policy covers private and government sectors, first in India to do so
• Part of wider labour, education, and infrastructure reforms

In a significant move towards workplace inclusivity, the Karnataka government has approved one day of menstrual leave per month for all working women across both government and private sectors. This makes Karnataka the first Indian state to implement such a comprehensive menstrual leave policy, extending it beyond just government jobs.

The decision was announced on October 9 after a state cabinet meeting, where Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs H.K. Patil confirmed the approval. Women working in sectors such as garments, IT, and services will now be eligible for this monthly leave.

The menstrual leave policy is part of a broader set of reforms under the Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which also increases financial aid for organised sector workers and their families, particularly in education.

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Karnataka’s move builds on what other states like Bihar, Odisha, and Kerala have already initiated, though those policies largely focus on government employees or university staff. Companies like L&T, Acer India, Zomato, Swiggy, and AU Small Finance Bank have also introduced menstrual leave to support women’s health and well-being.

While there is no national policy yet on menstrual leave, this move by Karnataka sets a strong example, balancing gender equity with health needs in the workplace.