Karnataka rolls out paid menstrual leave for women employees
Karnataka just announced a new policy giving all working women aged 18-52 one paid day off each month for menstrual leave—so that's 12 extra days off a year.
This move, approved by the state cabinet, covers both government and private sector jobs.
Officials have described it as a step toward creating supportive and inclusive workplaces.
Why this matters
This is the first time any Indian state has offered menstrual leave to women in both government and private sectors, setting a new standard nationwide.
You don't need to show a medical certificate to take the day off, but unused days won't roll over.
The policy recognizes how periods can affect well-being and aims to make work life fairer for women—something already seen in places like Japan and Spain.
It's also about breaking taboos around period health at work, making conversations (and support) more normal for everyone.