Karnataka cabinet approves paid menstrual leave for women employees across sectors

The government said the policy will apply to women working in government offices, garment factories, multinational companies, IT firms, and other private sector establishments across the state.

According to the cabinet note, “The decision was taken keeping in mind the health and well-being of working women and to encourage a more inclusive and supportive work environment. The initiative also aims to spread awareness about menstrual health and ensure physical and mental comfort for women employees.”

State Law Minister H K Patil described the move as a major step in improving workplace welfare for women. “It will be helpful to women. The policy has been successful in other states, and we have decided to adopt it,” he was quoted as saying by NDTV.

With this policy, Karnataka joins Bihar, Odisha, Kerala, and Sikkim, which already have menstrual leave provisions in place.

In the private sector, companies such as Zomato, Swiggy, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Byju’s, and Gozoop have also introduced paid menstrual leave for their female staff.