Odisha Announces Optional Menstrual Leave for Female Employees

Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida declared a day's optional paid menstrual leave for female employees in both state government and private sector. Announced post-Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack, this move follows advocacy from local activists at international forums highlighting menstrual issues faced by women globally.

Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida has introduced an optional paid menstrual leave for female employees in the state government and private sector. This announcement was made following the Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack.

Pravati Parida, who oversees the women and child development department, specified that the leave can be taken on the first or second day of the menstrual cycle. This measure comes in response to growing calls for gender-sensitive workplace policies.

An advocacy effort at the United Nations Civil Society Conference 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya by an Odia girl, and further highlighted by Ranjita Priyadarshini, a woman activist from Odisha, brought attention to the physical challenges women face during menstruation, influencing this policy change.

(With inputs from agencies.)