Karnataka has made history by approving the Karnataka Menstrual Leave Policy 2025, becoming the first Indian state to extend paid menstrual leave to women in both government and private sectors. The move has reignited conversations about menstrual rights at the workplace — and prompted comparisons with Bihar, the first state to introduce menstrual leave more than three decades ago.
While both states share a progressive intent, their policies differ significantly in scope and structure.
In Bihar, menstrual leave was introduced as early as 1992, offering two days of special leave every month to women employees working in state government offices, schools, and public sector units. At the time, the initiative was considered groundbreaking — the first of its kind in India. However, it remained confined to the public sector, leaving out women employed in private companies and the vast unorganised workforce.
Karnataka’s newly approved policy takes that pioneering idea a step further. Under the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025, women across government and private organisations will be entitled to one paid day off each month. This makes Karnataka the first state in India to mandate menstrual leave across both sectors.
Officials said the measure is aimed at promoting gender equity, menstrual health awareness, and productivity by reducing “presenteeism” — the tendency to work despite discomfort. The government is also considering extending similar benefits to unorganised sector workers through Labour Welfare Boards or other mechanisms, ensuring inclusivity across all employment categories.
While Bihar continues to offer the longest monthly menstrual leave in the country, Karnataka’s approach is being seen as more holistic and inclusive, given its coverage of private enterprises.
Kerala: Following student-led advocacy at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kerala universities began allowing menstrual leave. In January 2023, Higher Education Minister R Bindu announced a 2% relaxation in required attendance for female students.
Sikkim and Odisha are other states which continue with the trend. So lets see which other states join the list to give respite to women during their tough days.