Karnataka has become the first state in India to officially grant women employees one day of paid menstrual leave each month, amounting to 12 days annually. This decision, approved by the state cabinet, applies to women working in various sectors, including government offices, garment factories, IT firms, and multinational companies. State Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil announced this initiative, stating it aims to promote the health and well-being of working women and create a more inclusive work environment.

The cabinet's decision reflects a growing trend in India, as Karnataka joins Odisha, Sikkim, Kerala, and Bihar in implementing menstrual leave policies. Patil emphasized the importance of this policy, noting that it has been successful in other states and will greatly benefit women in Karnataka. He stated, "It will be helpful to women. The policy has been successful in other states, and we have decided to adopt it."

In addition to menstrual leave, the cabinet approved several other proposals aimed at enhancing labour welfare and infrastructure. This includes the Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which increases financial aid for existing schemes that support organized workers and their families. The government also allocated Rs 1,000 crore for the reconstruction of 39 major bridges and approved the purchase of an Aerial Ladder Platform Vehicle for emergency services, costing Rs 16 crore.

Further initiatives include the establishment of a new medical college in Kanakapura with a 300-bed teaching hospital, and significant investments in technical education. The cabinet also greenlit the formation of the Aurad City Municipal Council in Bidar district and various water supply projects in Bengaluru.

Karnataka's move to introduce menstrual leave is seen as a progressive step towards supporting women's health in the workplace, with officials expressing commitment to its effective implementation across all sectors.