Paid Menstrual Leave in India 2025 – Karnataka Leads with Progressive Policy

Paid Menstrual Leave in India: Karnataka Sets a Historic Example in 2025

The state of Karnataka has taken a bold and progressive step by approving the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025, becoming one of the few Indian states to officially grant one paid menstrual leave per month to women employees across government and private sectors.

With this decision, the Karnataka government joins the league of forward-thinking states like Bihar, Odisha, and Kerala, where menstrual leave has already been implemented in various forms. This initiative is seen as a landmark move to promote women’s health, inclusivity, and gender equality in workplaces.

What is the Meaning of Menstrual Leave?

Menstrual leave refers to a paid or unpaid leave that women employees can avail of during their menstruation period. The objective is to acknowledge the physical discomfort, cramps, and hormonal fluctuations many women experience during menstruation and allow them a day of rest without compromising their income or work performance.

This concept, though new in India’s mainstream policy, has been practiced globally in various countries for decades.

Karnataka Approves Menstrual Leave Policy 2025

On October 9, 2025, the Karnataka Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, officially approved the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025.

Under this policy:

Women employees are entitled to one paid menstrual leave per month, amounting to 12 days per year.

The policy applies to government offices, garment industries, IT firms, MNCs, and private sector organizations.

The initiative aims to create a more inclusive and healthy work environment for working women across Karnataka.

According to Karnataka Labour Minister Santosh Lad,

“This is one of the most progressive laws for women’s welfare. Women can avail 12 sanctioned leaves a year as per their menstrual cycle — once a month or cumulatively. This policy recognizes the important roles women play in both family and professional life.”

The Karnataka Labour Department worked for over a year to refine this policy, consulting various sectors, women’s organizations, and industry bodies to ensure smooth implementation.

Why Karnataka’s Menstrual Leave Policy Matters

This policy is not just about a single day off — it’s about recognizing women’s health as a legitimate workplace concern.

Promotes Gender Inclusivity

For years, workplace equality debates focused on maternity leave and pay gaps. Now, menstrual leave addresses another underrated but essential part of women’s well-being.

Encourages Open Conversations

Menstruation has long been a taboo topic in workplaces. Karnataka’s decision helps normalize discussions about menstrual health.

Supports Productivity & Mental Health

Women who suffer from severe cramps or fatigue often find it hard to focus. A day of rest can improve long-term productivity and morale.

Sets an Example for Private Sector

The inclusion of private companies and industries (like garment and IT) makes Karnataka’s policy a benchmark for corporate India.

Menstrual Leave in India: Which States Offer It?

Before Karnataka’s approval, only a few Indian states had official menstrual leave policies:

With this move, Karnataka becomes India’s first state to grant menstrual leave across both public and private sectors — a truly inclusive step.

Countries with Paid Menstrual Leave

India is not alone in introducing menstrual leave policies. The first country to give menstrual leave was Japan, which introduced it in 1947.

Here are some countries that have implemented menstrual leave:

Karnataka’s 2025 policy now places India among these progressive global examples, strengthening its reputation for gender-inclusive governance.

Karnataka Labour Department’s Role

The Karnataka Labour Department has been the driving force behind the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025.

An 18-member expert committee, led by Prof. Sapna S from Christ University, studied the health implications of menstruation and global best practices.

The committee’s report highlighted that over 60 lakh women are employed in Karnataka, including 25–30 lakh in corporate sectors.

The department also plans awareness sessions with employers to ensure proper implementation and prevent misuse of the policy.

Voices Supporting the Policy

Women’s rights activists, industry leaders, and health experts have largely welcomed the initiative.

Brinda Adige, a prominent women’s rights activist, remarked:

“The government’s step acknowledges genuine health needs of women and reinforces that their well-being is key to sustainable development.”

The policy is expected to encourage other Indian states to follow suit and adopt similar frameworks to support working women.