The Karnataka government has rolled out a landmark menstrual leave policy granting one paid leave day per month to working women across the state’s organised sectors. The initiative aims to promote workplace well-being, gender sensitivity and healthier working conditions by formally recognising menstrual health as a legitimate labour concern.

Scope and Coverage of the Policy

The policy applies to women aged 18 to 52 employed in permanent, contractual and outsourced roles . It covers establishments operating under major labour laws, including:

• Factories Act, 1948

• Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act

• Plantation Labour Act

• Beedi and Cigar Workers Act

• Motor Transport Workers Act

This ensures wide applicability across industrial, service-sector and transport-related workplaces.

Monthly Leave Structure and Usage Rules

Eligible employees are entitled to 12 days of paid menstrual leave per year , capped at one day per month . The leave cannot be carried forward to subsequent months, reinforcing that it must be used strictly during the menstrual cycle. The state has emphasised that organisations must integrate the provision immediately within their HR and attendance systems.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers are required to approve menstrual leave without demanding medical certificates , removing procedural barriers and encouraging trust-based compliance. The aim is to improve comfort, reduce absenteeism caused by unmanaged menstrual symptoms and support overall workforce productivity.

Significance for Labour Welfare

The policy places Karnataka among the few governments prioritising gender-inclusive labour reforms . It is expected to improve women’s physical and mental well-being, encourage retention in the workforce and promote more inclusive HR practices. By acknowledging menstrual health as a legitimate workplace issue, the measure strengthens broader efforts to build equitable and supportive work environments.

Exam Points

• Karnataka provides 1 paid menstrual leave per month (12 annually).

• Applies to women aged 18–52 across permanent, contractual & outsourced roles .

• No medical certificate required.

• Leave cannot be carried forward .

• Applicable under multiple labour laws including the Factories Act and Shops & Establishments Act .