In a historic move, Karnataka has become the first state in India to approve a paid menstrual leave policy for women employees. The new law allows women to take one day of paid leave each month, totaling 12 days per year.
A striking 84.1% of young women report experiencing menstrual pain at some point, with 43.1% saying they endure pain every cycle and 41% during some cycles. 1
This policy applies to both government and organised private sector employees, including IT professionals, factory workers, and corporate staff. Authorities describe the initiative as a significant step toward workplace inclusivity and gender-sensitive policies.
The Karnataka government estimates that more than 60 lakh women are part of the state’s workforce, including around 25–30 lakh women employed in the corporate sector. The policy, approved by the state cabinet on October 9, 2025, grants one paid menstrual leave per month to women working in government departments and organised private sectors such as IT, textiles, and manufacturing.
Implementation details and enforcement guidelines have not yet been released, as the government is expected to issue formal notifications through the Labour Department.
The decision follows the recommendations of an 18-member committee led by Dr. Sapna S., Chief of the Law Department at Christ University. The panel emphasized the physiological challenges and the need for rest that many women experience during menstruation. The state government reviewed the pros and cons of the proposal, including its potential effect on women-dominated sectors like the garment industry, before approving the policy.
The proposal had initially suggested six days of menstrual leave per year in 2024, which was later expanded to 12 days (one per month) in the approved version.
With this move, Karnataka joins states such as Bihar and Odisha, which already provide menstrual leave for women employees in state government roles only.
Indonesia – Women can take two days of menstrual leave per month under Labor Act No. 13.
Japan – Employees are entitled to one day off per month for menstruation, though usage is very low.
South Korea – One day per month, with extra pay if the leave isn’t taken, but cultural stigma limits uptake.
Spain – Approved menstrual leave in 2023 for women suffering from severe menstrual pain, covered under medical leave provisions (up to three to five days as certified by a doctor).
Taiwan – Three days per year at half pay, separate from regular sick leave.
Vietnam – Offers menstrual leave, though duration and compensation details vary.
Zambia – Often cited as having a “Mother’s Day” provision granting women one day off per month, though it is based on labor practice rather than detailed statute.
Karnataka’s menstrual leave policy is being hailed as a progressive move toward gender equality. By recognizing the unique health needs of women, the state sets an example for creating inclusive workplaces.
Moreover, acknowledging menstrual health at the policy level helps break the longstanding social taboos associated with menstruation in India.
What is period leave?
Period leave is a workplace policy that allows women to take time off during menstruation to manage period pain, fatigue, and other symptoms, ensuring their health and productivity at work.
Why is period leave important?
Period leave acknowledges that menstrual cycles can cause severe pain, cramps, and discomfort, which can affect concentration and efficiency. Providing leave supports women’s physical and mental well-being.
How common is period pain among women?
Studies show 84.1% of young women report experiencing menstrual pain at some point ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that can disrupt daily activities. 1
How many days of period leave are offered in India?
Karnataka leads India with one paid day off per month, totaling 12 days annually, for women employees in both government and private sectors.
Can period leave improve workplace productivity?
Yes. By allowing women to rest during period pain, organizations can reduce absenteeism caused by discomfort and support healthier, more focused employees.
Who can use period leave?
Period leave is generally available to women employees, although eligibility may differ depending on country laws, workplace rules, and employment type.
Can period leave be combined with sick leave?
In Karnataka, the government has not yet clarified whether menstrual leave will be treated as separate from sick leave or as an additional entitlement.
Karnataka’s initiative may inspire other states to introduce similar policies. While a few regions have experimented with menstrual leave for government employees, Karnataka is the first to extend this benefit comprehensively across both public and organised private sectors.
References:
1. Rencz, Nora, Krisztina P. Dósa, Adrienn Major, Andrea Szőcs, and György Ács. “Prevalence of Menstrual Pain in Young Women: Associated Factors and Impact on Activities.” Journal of Women’s Health 21, no. 9 (2012): 952–959. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3392715/
2. GWL Team. “Menstrual Leave Policies from 7 Countries across the Globe.” Global Woman Leader. Accessed October 9, 2025. https://www.globalwomanleader.com/viewpoint/experts-column/menstrual-leave-policies-from-7-countries-across-the-globe-nwid-219.html.
(Rh/ARC/MSM)