In a move taken as a step forward for workplace inclusivity, the Karnataka government on Thursday approved one day of menstrual leave per month for women employees across multiple sectors, including garment manufacturing, Information Technology (IT), and other organised industries. The decision was finalised during a cabinet meeting chaired in Bengaluru.
State Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H. K. Patil announced the approval while addressing the media after the meeting. As reported by PTI, Patil said, “The cabinet today approved at least one day leave for working women in various sectors, right from garments to Information Technology.” The policy aims to improve the health of working women and promote a more supportive workplace culture across the state.
Labour reforms and welfare expansion
Alongside the menstrual leave policy, the cabinet also approved amendments to the Karnataka Labour Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The updated bill has expanded certain financial benefits which comes under six welfare schemes, including enhanced educational assistance for employees in the organised sector and the people dependent on them, as per PTI report.
The reform package shows the state’s broader commitment in supporting workers' rights and welfare. By extending benefits and revising leave entitlements, the Karnataka government seeks to position itself as a model for progressive labour practices in India.
Apart from social welfare reforms, the cabinet has also announced several key infrastructure and emergency preparedness initiatives. A ₹1,000 crore plan was approved to reconstruct 39 bridges that are in critical conditions across Karnataka in its initial phase.
The cabinet sanctioned the purchase of a high-reach aerial ladder platform vehicle for the Fire and Emergency Services Department, which has a 52–54 m reach, in order to improve emergency response capabilities. Urban governance also saw an upgrade, with Aurad (B) Town Panchayat in Bidar district which is set to become a City Municipal Council under provisions of the Karnataka Municipalities Act, 1964.
Major water infrastructure projects under the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) were also approved. These included a five-year maintenance contract worth ₹26.02 crore for a 20 MLD Used Water Treatment Plant and a five MLD sewage pumping facility at Nagasandra.
