Karnataka Government Approves One Day Paid Menstrual Leave for Women Employees

In a progressive move, the Karnataka government has approved one day of paid menstrual leave every month for women employees across government departments as well as private industries.

The decision was taken during the state cabinet meeting, and officials confirmed that the policy will also apply to women working in textile industries, multinational corporations (MNCs), IT companies, and other private establishments.

A step toward health and workplace equity

State Law Minister H. K. Patil, announcing the decision after the cabinet meeting, said the move aims to promote the health and well-being of working women.

“We have taken this decision keeping in mind women workers’ health and welfare. Our goal is to create awareness about menstrual health and provide physical and mental comfort. This policy will be highly beneficial for women employees,” Patil said.

He added that similar initiatives have been implemented successfully in other states, which encouraged Karnataka to adopt the measure.

Activists welcome the move

Women’s rights activist Brinda Adige welcomed the decision, calling it a positive step towards gender inclusivity in the workplace.

“Such initiatives help increase women’s participation in the workforce and make workplaces more equitable,” she said.

However, Adige also reminded the government to focus on the unorganised sector, where women often lack access to basic labour rights and health benefits.

Other states and companies with menstrual leave

Karnataka joins states like Bihar, Odisha, Kerala, and Sikkim, which already provide menstrual leave to women employees.

Several major Indian companies — including Zomato, Swiggy, L&T, and GoZoup — have also introduced paid menstrual leave as part of their gender-sensitive workplace policies.

The Karnataka government’s move is being seen as a model for inclusive labour reform that could encourage more states and private organisations to follow suit.