The Cabinet of Karnataka passed the Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025. Women will now get one paid leave monthly i.e 12 days yearly , including Government offices, IT firms, garment factories. The policy is builds on a 2024 six-day proposal. It tackles pain, fatigue, and stigma head-on.
The policy promotes workplace inclusivity. It supports women’s well-being during menstruation. Kerala offers two days monthly for female ITI trainees. Bihar provides 12 days yearly for state employees. Odisha provides 12 days yearly for state employees. Karnataka’s policy applies to both public and private sectors.
Labour Minister Santosh Lad announced the approval. “It’s our most progressive law,” he said. “Women can take 12 sanctioned leaves yearly. They choose based on their menstrual cycle. It’s a feather in our cap.”
