17/08/2024
: Odisha has become the third state in India to introduce menstrual leave for women working in both public and private sectors. During the Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida announced that women employees will be granted one-day menstrual leave. This can be availed on either the first or second day of their menstrual cycle.
Previously, women employees in Odisha were not entitled to menstrual leave. However, this new policy aims to acknowledge the discomfort women face during their cycles. Parida emphasized that this initiative is an important step toward supporting working women.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had earlier promised to implement a 'Menstrual Health Policy' in Odisha as part of its election manifesto. This policy included the provision of one-day menstrual leave for women government employees, and it is part of the party's 100-day action plan.
