Bihar was ahead of its time when it introduced the concept of menstrual leave back in 1992. It became the first state in India to implement such a policy, granting two paid leaves per month, though only for government employees.
Following its lead:
- Odisha adopted a one-day menstrual leave policy.
- Kerala extended menstrual leave to female students in universities and other institutions, aiming to normalize menstrual health and well-being from an early age.
Karnataka Joins the List
In a progressive move, Karnataka has now become the latest state to introduce menstrual leave. The state cabinet approved 12 paid menstrual leaves per year — one per month — applicable to women working in both public and private sectors.
This decision, finalized in a cabinet meeting, is set to benefit women working in:
- Government departments
- Garment factories
- IT firms
- Multinational companies
- Other private organizations
The cabinet note stated:
“The initiative also aims to spread awareness about menstrual health and ensure physical and mental comfort for women employees.”