The Department of Labour and Employment, Karnataka (DoLE), on November 12, 2025, has officially implemented the “Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025.” The policy provides one day of paid menstrual leave per month (totalling 12 days annually) to all women employees aged 18 to 52 years working in establishments registered under various labour laws in the state. These include the Factories Act, 1948, Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961, Plantation Labour Act, 1951, Beedi and Cigar Workers (Conditions of Employment) Act, 1966, and the Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961.
The decision follows recommendations from a committee comprising government officials, medical experts, women’s organisations, industry representatives, and labour unions. The committee reviewed 75 public submissions, of which 56 supported the introduction of menstrual leave—several of them advocating for 12 days annually instead of 6. The Cabinet, in its meeting held on October 9, 2025, approved the proposal, emphasising that the policy aims to promote the health, efficiency, and morale of women workers, thereby enhancing productivity and participation in the workforce.
Under this policy, women employees are entitled to avail of one paid menstrual leave day each month without the need for a medical certificate. However, the leave must be utilised within the same month and cannot be carried forward to subsequent months. This landmark policy positions Karnataka as a progressive state in promoting gender-sensitive labour welfare and workplace inclusivity.
[Notification No. KAE 466 LET 2023]
