BENGALURU, 27 November 2025: The Karnataka government has officially rolled out a landmark policy granting one paid menstrual leave per month to working women, marking a significant shift in workplace welfare norms.
Under the new Menstrual Leave Policy 2025, women aged between 18 and 52, whether in permanent, contract or outsourced roles, working in government offices, IT firms, garment factories, multinationals, and other private-sector organisations are entitled to 12 paid menstrual leave days a year. That translates to one paid leave per month during the menstrual cycle.
The policy does not require women to submit any medical certificate to avail the leave. Unused menstrual leave cannot be carried forward to the next month.
The government said the policy aims to safeguard women’s health, address menstrual health needs, and promote greater inclusivity and comfort at workplaces. Officials said it seeks to normalise menstruation as part of everyday health instead of treating it as taboo.
Labour and women’s welfare advocates have welcomed the move. For many, the policy promises real relief, especially for women who experience severe menstrual pain or related health issues. For sectors like garments and factories, where large numbers of women are employed, the policy could be especially beneficial.
While many have praised the policy, some voices, particularly from industry representatives, have expressed concerns. They noted that for small- and medium-sized enterprises, accommodating monthly leave could pose scheduling and staffing challenges, especially in roles requiring continuous coverage.
Medical professionals have also raised practical questions: some argue that a single day per month may not suffice for women who experience intense discomfort or need extra rest.
With this move, Karnataka joins a small but growing number of Indian states and companies that have introduced menstrual leave or wellness leave policies to support women’s reproductive health. The policy reflects a broader push to integrate menstruation awareness and women’s health into labour laws, a step many see as overdue.
