Odisha Announces One-Day Menstrual Leave for Women

On 15th August, 2024, the Odisha government introduced a one-day menstrual leave policy for working women in both the private and government sectors, a move praised by rights activists and employees.

Women employees can choose to take menstrual leave on the first or second day of their menstrual cycle, according to Parida.
The state’s women and child development department will release detailed guidelines on implementing the new policy.
Odisha follows Kerala and Bihar in instituting menstrual leave policies amid increasing calls for such measures nationwide.
This policy announcement comes a month after the Supreme Court directed the Centre to consult stakeholders on similar demands.
The new government’s policy aims to bolster its image as progressive and responsive to women's needs.