I n a major step forward for workplace wellbeing and gender equality, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025, granting women one paid menstrual leave per month, totalling up to 12 days annually across both public and private sectors.
The policy is expected to take effect once formally notified.
This makes Karnataka the first Indian state to extend mandatory menstrual leave universally — including government offices, IT and tech companies, multinational corporations, and garment manufacturing units.
A New Standard for Menstrual Health in the Workplace
The Policy builds on recommendations from the 2024 expert panel behind the Right of Women to Menstrual Leave and Free Access to Menstrual Health Products Bill. Karnataka's move positions it ahead of other states like Bihar, Kerala, Odisha, and Sikkim, which offer menstrual leave only in select sectors.
Globally, it aligns Karnataka with jurisdictions such as Spain, and Portugal, which recognise menstrual health within employment legislation.
Key Highlights of the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025
1 paid menstrual leave per month, applicable across public and private sectors.
12 days of leave annually, doubling the earlier recommendation of six days from 2024.
Inclusive coverage for industries ranging from IT and technology to garments and manufacturing.
Explicit recognition of menstrual health as a workplace rights and wellbeing issue.
What Employers in Karnataka Should Prepare For
Implementation guidelines are forthcoming, and organisations may need to put updated HR processes in place. Key considerations include:
Confidentiality: Ensuring leave can be taken discreetly, without disclosure pressures.
Anti-bias measures: Preventing discrimination in hiring or performance evaluations.
Consistency in policy application: Particularly in organisations with multi-state operations.
Support for unorganised workers: A significant group not yet covered under the Policy.
Employers operating in Karnataka should review their local policies and prepare for compliance once the government releases notification and procedural rules.
Why This Matters for Global Employers
For multinational organisations hiring in Karnataka, India, staying ahead of evolving state-level labour laws is essential. India's labour landscape is complex—each state can introduce its own leave entitlements, working conditions, HR documentation standards, and compliance obligations. These variations can significantly impact hiring practices, payroll, employee benefits, and day-to-day workforce management.
Understanding and adapting to these regional differences isn't just a legal requirement—it's a strategic advantage. Employers who proactively track changes in state legislation can reduce compliance risks, maintain operational continuity, and create more equitable and supportive work environments for their teams across India.
Whether it's new leave provisions, emerging worker protections, or updated regulatory filings, staying informed helps global employers manage their Indian workforce confidently and responsibly.
A Step Toward More Inclusive Workplaces
Karnataka's Menstrual Leave Policy is more than a legislative update—it signals a broader shift in recognising menstrual health as integral to workplace inclusion, productivity, and gender equity.
As India continues to strengthen its labour framework, employers will benefit from proactive compliance strategies and supportive workplace environments.