By Neetha Bopaiah | New Delhi Chronicle | October 10, 2025
In a historic decision, the Karnataka Cabinet on October 9, 2025, approved the Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025, granting women employees across the state one paid day of leave per month, adding up to 12 days of menstrual leave per year.
The policy applies to both public and private sector employees, making Karnataka one of the first Indian states to implement such a comprehensive menstrual-leave initiative. From government offices and IT firms to garment factories and multinational companies, every employer in Karnataka will now be required to extend this benefit to women staff.
A Progressive Leap for Workplace Equality
Initially, the draft proposal suggested only six days of menstrual leave annually. However, following deliberations and public input, the Cabinet doubled the allowance to twelve days, aligning the policy with global standards for workplace inclusivity and women’s health.
The Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025, has been widely hailed as a progressive and welfare-oriented reform, setting a benchmark for other Indian states to follow.
Santosh Lad: The Driving Force Behind the Policy
Karnataka’s Labour Minister Santosh Lad emerged as one of the key architects of the policy. His advocacy within the government and his empathetic approach toward women’s health were pivotal in securing the Cabinet’s approval.
The proposal, originally submitted by Kavitha Reddy and Ranjeetha Priyadarshini from Odisha a year ago, gained momentum after Lad took it forward to the Cabinet.
“I am aware of the physical pain and mental stress that every woman goes through during this time,” said Minister Santosh Lad. “Recognizing this is not just about leave—it’s about dignity, equality, and a workplace that understands biological realities.”A Policy Rooted in Empathy and Inclusion
Lad’s rationale centered on the idea that inclusive workplaces must accommodate the physical and emotional challenges women face during menstruation. He emphasized that the leave should apply uniformly across all sectors, ensuring that women in private companies and factories enjoy the same rights as those in government jobs.
Calling it “the most progressive new law we have brought,” Lad described the policy as a feather in the cap of a progressive government committed to women’s welfare.
A Model for Other States
By adopting this landmark policy, Karnataka has taken a bold step toward gender-sensitive governance and workplace equality. As discussions on menstrual leave continue nationwide, this decision could serve as a model for other Indian states to emulate.
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Karnataka Cabinet approves Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025, granting 12 paid days annually to women employees across public and private sectors. Labour Minister Santosh Lad leads the initiative, marking a historic step in workplace equality and women’s welfare.
