Karnataka Becomes First State to Mandate Paid Menstrual Leave in Both Government and Private Sectors
Karnataka Govt’s Big Decision: Women Can Take 12 Days Leave For Menstrual Problems: In a historic move for workplace inclusivity and women’s health, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved a policy granting one day of paid menstrual leave every month to all female employees—totaling 12 days per year. What sets this initiative apart is that it will be mandatory across both government and private sectors, making Karnataka the first Indian state to take such a comprehensive step.
The policy will apply to government offices, garment and apparel industries, IT companies, multinational corporations, and private organizations operating within the state.
Promoting Health, Dignity, and Inclusivity
In a statement, the Karnataka government said the policy aims to create a more supportive, inclusive, and health-conscious work environment for women.
“This decision has been taken keeping in mind the physical and mental health of working women. It aims to increase awareness about menstrual health and ensure a more supportive workplace,” the official cabinet note read.
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From Committee to Cabinet Approval
Labor Minister Santosh Lad revealed that the government had been working on this policy for over a year.
“Women juggle multiple responsibilities at home and at work. Menstruation adds physical and mental stress. Initially, the committee recommended six days of leave annually, but we have doubled it to 12 days to truly support women,” Lad stated.
He also clarified that private companies in Karnataka will be legally required to implement the new rule, not just encouraged to do so.
Support from Lawmakers and Civil Society
Law Minister H.K. Patil said the initiative is in line with progressive policies adopted in other Indian states and praised its potential to foster a respectful and equitable workplace.
Women’s rights groups and labor unions have widely welcomed the move. Many called it a landmark decision for the dignity, health, and well-being of working women.
Other States and Companies Leading the Way
Karnataka now joins a select group of Indian states that offer menstrual leave in some form:
- Bihar – 2 days of leave per month (since 1992)
- Odisha, Kerala, Sikkim – State-level provisions vary
In the private sector, several major companies already provide menstrual leave, including:
- Zomato
- Swiggy
- Larsen & Toubro (L&T)
- Byju’s
- GoZoop
The Karnataka government is expected to issue detailed guidelines for enforcement soon. Employers across sectors will need to update HR policies to comply. The Labor Department will monitor implementation and compliance.
A Milestone for Gender-Sensitive Policy
Experts and women’s health advocates have hailed Karnataka’s decision as a progressive, empathetic, and necessary intervention—not just to ease physical discomfort, but to acknowledge the biological realities women face without stigma.
“This isn’t just about leave. It’s about recognizing women’s needs and creating fairer workplaces,” said a representative from a leading women’s advocacy group.
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