In a historic decision, the Karnataka government approved the use of one day per month of paid menstrual leave for women workers this Thursday. The paid leave is for women working in industries ranging from information technology to clothing manufacturing. The decision approved at a cabinet meeting was a step forward for improving women’s welfare at work.
According to PTI, State Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil told the reporters during the meeting that the leave will allow women in a variety of professions to take at least one day off throughout their menstrual cycle. “The cabinet today approved at least one day’s leave for working women in various sectors. Right from garments to IT,” he stated.
The Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025, increased the amount of money accessible under 6 labour welfare programs. It was also approved by the cabinet. According to the PTI report, this included better educational support for workers in the organised sector and their families.
Paid Menstrual Leave for Women
Menstrual leave is offered to female employees in a number of nations around the world. Some well-known nations are Spain, Japan, Indonesia, South Korea, Vietnam, Zambia, the Philippines, and Taiwan.
The Supreme Court noted in July 2024 that the federal government and state governments should think about establishing menstrual paid leave regulations for working women and female students. Such regulations may encourage women to enter the workforce, but they also may discourage firms from hiring women. This was pointed out by then Chief Justice DY Chandrachud.
The Menstruation Benefit Bill, introduced by Arunachal Pradesh MP Ninong Ering in 2017, calls for two days of paid menstruation leave each month for women working in the public and private sectors. However, the bill has not yet been passed.
According to the officials, the Karnataka policy acknowledges menstrual health as a basic component of women’s rights. They seek to prioritise women’s health and workplace well-being. The goal of the policy is to foster a positive work atmosphere where women can take time off during their periods without feeling stigmatised or afraid of the consequences.
India does not have statewide legislation on menstrual leave. Numerous state Governments and private companies have already established such rules. Women are already entitled to paid leave during their menstrual cycle in states like Odisha and Bihar.
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