Karnataka Teachers Get 1 Day Paid Menstrual Leave Monthly

In a progressive leap for workplace welfare, the Karnataka Education Department has officially formalized menstrual leave for its women employees.

A circular issued on January 29, 2026, by the Commissioner of the School Education Department, Vikas Suralkar, directs the immediate implementation of this policy across all departmental offices, making Karnataka a pioneer in institutionalizing menstrual health rights.

Karnataka Menstrual Leave: Key Provisions of the New Policy

The directive entitles menstruating women employees between the ages of 18 and 52 to one day of paid leave per month.

This adds up to 12 days of annual menstrual leave, specifically designed to enhance work efficiency and boost morale by acknowledging the biological realities of the female workforce.

Crucially, the department has simplified the process to ensure dignity and privacy.

Employees are not required to provide a medical certificate to avail of the leave.

However, the policy specifies that unused leave cannot be carried forward to the next month, and it must be recorded in a separate register to maintain clear attendance tracking.

Alignment with State Reform

This move by the Education Department follows a landmark government order issued in November 2025 under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s administration.

While the broader state policy covers both public and private sectors—including IT hubs and garment units—the Education Department’s circular ensures that teachers and administrative staff are among the first to see the benefit fully operationalized.

Operational Guidelines for Staff

To ensure that academic and administrative duties remain uninterrupted, the circular outlines specific responsibilities for those taking leave.

Employees must inform their section officers of any urgent matters, such as court-related files or pending office deadlines, before stepping away.

The authority empowered to grant casual leave will also be responsible for sanctioning these menstrual leaves.

Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa has previously highlighted that such gender-sensitive policies are part of a broader effort to improve the working conditions of the state’s 1.5 lakh government employees, ensuring that “workplace inclusivity” is not just a buzzword but a reality in Karnataka’s schools and offices.

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