Through an order dated 12th November 2025, the Government of Karnataka has introduced a monthly paid menstrual leave entitlement for women employees in the state. The notification follows earlier departmental communication and the review of recommendations submitted by an expert committee constituted by the Department of Labour. This committee included officials from multiple departments, medical practitioners, representatives from labour groups, employer associations, industry bodies, and other stakeholders who examined the proposal in detail.
The policy applies to all establishments registered under the Factories Act, the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, the Plantation Labour Act, the Beedi and Cigar Workers (Conditions of Employment) Act, and the Motor Transport Workers Act. It covers women employees between 18 and 52 years of age, including permanent, contract, and outsourced workers. This makes the policy applicable to a wide span of sectors such as manufacturing, plantations, retail and commercial establishments, transport undertakings, garment units, IT companies, and other private and public establishments falling under the listed labour laws.
The order provides one paid menstrual leave every month for eligible women employees, totalling twelve days per year. The leave must be taken during the same month and cannot be carried forward. Employees availing menstrual leave are not required to submit a medical certificate. The government has specified that the leave is to be granted by employers during the employee’s menstrual period and is to be treated as a paid leave category under the employer’s records.
Before finalising the policy, the Department of Labour uploaded the draft proposal on its official website to gather views from the public and stakeholders. Seventy-five written submissions were received from workers, employer bodies, labour unions, women’s organisations, and members of the public. A majority supported the introduction of menstrual leave, while a smaller number suggested revisions, including an increase in the annual entitlement. The feedback was reviewed along with the expert committee’s recommendations. The proposal was then placed before the Cabinet through Cabinet Note No. 834/2025, after which approval was granted for state-wide implementation.
Following the notification, the order has been circulated to the Commissioner of Labour, the State Labour Insurance Medical Services, and the Director of the Department of Factories, Boilers, Industrial Safety and Health, with instructions to inform all employers under their jurisdiction. Copies have also been forwarded to senior officials of the Department of Labour and the Department of Cabinet Affairs for necessary action and record.
Written by Adv. Vamsi Mohana
