Redefining Work: Karnataka’s trailblazing move toward gender equity

In 2025, the Government of Karnataka made history by becoming one of the first Indian states to introduce a comprehensive Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025 (“the Policy”) applicable across both public and private sectors. Approved by the state cabinet in October 2025, the Policy entitles women employees to one paid day of menstrual leave per month, totalling twelve paid leaves per year. The Policy is applicable to women between the ages of 18 and 52 years, and extends to establishments registered under the Factories Act, 1948, the Plantations Labour Act, 1951, the Beedi and Cigar Workers (Conditions of Employment) Act, 1966, and the Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961 and the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961.